When Is the Best Time to Buy a Car? Tips from Car-Buying Experts
By [Author Name]
Introduction
Are you planning to buy a new car? If so, you might be surprised to learn that the day you choose to visit the dealership can significantly impact your car-buying experience. To help you make the most informed decision, we have consulted with car-buying experts to compile valuable advice on the best and worst times to buy a car. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and specific factors such as location and dealership policies can also influence your experience. Read on to discover when to buy a car for the best deals and personalized attention from salespeople.
Best Day to Buy a Car: Tuesday
According to Nick Musica of Cash For Your Junk Car, weekdays, especially early in the week, are the best times to visit a car dealership. Specifically, Mondays and Tuesdays tend to be less busy as most individuals are occupied with work and weekday commitments. By choosing to visit the dealership on these days, you are more likely to receive prompt attention from salespeople and have greater negotiating power. Additionally, early mornings or weekdays around opening time are favorable options as they allow you to avoid the later rush and provide ample time to discuss your preferences and options. Different experts we spoke to cited Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday as key days to visit the dealership, but all unanimously agreed that avoiding crowded days ensures better individual attention from salespeople.
Worst Day to Buy a Car: Saturday
Saturdays are typically the busiest days at car dealerships due to higher foot traffic. With a multitude of buyers present, the sales staff may be more rushed in assisting you. Longer wait times, crowded showrooms, and overwhelmed salespeople are common scenarios on Saturdays. To have a more personalized and relaxed car-buying experience, it is best to avoid visiting dealerships on Saturdays. Save yourself from the dealership madness and choose a less crowded day for enhanced attention and focus on your car-buying needs.
Other Times to Consider
According to Lauren Fix, founder of the YouTube channel CarCoachReports, the worst day of the week to buy a car is the first week of the month. During this time, individuals have typically already paid their financing on the vehicle, making them less flexible in negotiations. However, as the month progresses, they become more flexible, and the pricing on the last day of the month is often the best. Joe Giranda, director of sales and marketing at CFR Classic, supports this notion by suggesting timing your purchase with the end of sales cycles and quotas, which typically occur on the last day of the month, quarter, or fiscal year. Dealerships often receive bonuses or incentives to meet their quotas, making them more willing to offer better deals as the day progresses. By taking advantage of this situation and conducting thorough research on pricing and available discounts, you can save money. Combining all this valuable advice, it becomes evident that the ideal time to visit the dealership is on the last day of the month, preferably if it falls on a Tuesday. This strategic timing positions you for maximum advantage, as dealerships will be eager to meet their sales targets, increasing your chances of securing enticing deals. Additionally, Tuesday strikes the perfect balance as it is after the weekend rush and allows you to receive dedicated attention from the sales team.
More Ways to Save
In addition to timing your car purchase, here are a few other tips to help you cut costs:
1. Do Your Research: Before visiting the dealership, conduct thorough research on the car you want, including its make, model, features, and market value. This knowledge will empower you during negotiations and ensure that you secure the best possible deal.
2. Determine Your Budget: Consider how much you will need for the down payment, monthly payments, and the total cost of ownership. Having a clear budget in mind will help you make informed decisions during the buying process.
3. Get Preapproved for a Loan: If you plan to finance the car, getting preapproved for a loan will not only streamline the buying process but also improve your bargaining power during negotiations.
4. Test Drive Multiple Cars: Test-driving the car you intend to purchase is essential to ensure that it meets your expectations. Additionally, test-driving other cars can provide valuable comparisons and help you make an informed decision.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate: Negotiating is a crucial aspect of the car-buying process. Don’t hesitate to negotiate for a better price or additional benefits that align with your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the day you choose to buy a car can significantly impact your experience at the dealership. By following the advice of car-buying experts, you can make informed decisions that maximize your chances of securing great deals and personalized attention from salespeople. Remember to opt for less crowded days, such as Tuesdays, and consider timing your purchase with the end of sales cycles and quotas. Conduct thorough research, determine your budget, get preapproved for a loan, and test drive multiple cars before making a final decision. With these tips in mind, you are well-equipped to make your car-buying journey a successful one. Happy car shopping!