What is the best time to purchase a car?

If you're in the market for a new vehicle, you might be wondering about the best time to buy a car. Whether you're considering a sedan or one of the best economical SUVs, there are strategies to finding the perfect time to purchase a car.

Although prices may seem similar throughout the year, you can take advantage of strategic periods and occasional special offers that help dealers clear their inventory before welcoming new models. They are retailers just like any other, after all!

Furthermore, by taking advantage of the best times to buy a car, you may have increased power to negotiate a lower price, even if the displayed price remains unchanged.

Here is a comprehensive guide with Arbour VW, your preferred Volkswagen dealership in Laval!

Why is Timing Crucial When Buying a Vehicle?

Like with any business, sales fluctuate with seasons and months; it's inevitable. Dealers are not exempt from the laws of supply and demand! Taking advantage of moments when sales slow down is an excellent way to secure a better price.

For this reason, one of the best times to buy a car is undoubtedly during the holiday season and the month of January. Indeed, the holidays are a time of year when everyone's budget is often tied up with gift expenses! Then, January is typically a month when people spend less to make up for what they spent over the holidays. This results in reduced traffic in dealerships.

If you plan your budget in advance, this is an excellent period to put your negotiation skills to work. When a dealer's sales are down, your purchasing power is up! Additionally, the end of the year usually coincides with the arrival of new model years, meaning that current stocks need to be reduced to make room for new arrivals. It also marks the end of the fiscal year.

This is when you will see more special offers, promotions or clearances that can allow you to save big. After all, an automotive dealer is a retailer like any other, which means that they have an inventory to manage.

Keep in mind, however, that very popular models that hardly see any drops in sales, even during the “slow” season, will be more difficult to negotiate, since they represent a safe value for the retailer.

Another great idea to maximize your buying power is to take advantage of the best time to sell your car, to help redirect your budget toward your new purchase. Come visit us to discuss it!

Factors Influencing the Best Time to Buy a Car

Although the holidays represent an opportune time, there are other advantageous periods. These vary according to the seasons, market trends and model popularity, end-of-month and end-of-quarter timings, etc.

It is also important to take into account your personal needs and your budget, as they will also dictate when it is most advantageous for you to buy a car!

Manufacturer Incentives

As we have seen, dealers often offer discounts aimed at clearing out inventory at opportune times to make room for new models. But the end of quarters can also result in attractive promotions, as dealers have quotas to meet.

It is also important to remember that the manufacturers themselves offer special offers and promotions. This includes vehicles from Volkswagen Canada! Feel free to contact our team to learn about current Volkswagen special offers.

Seasonal Promotions and Discounts

As mentioned, while November and December are among the best months to buy a car due to the end of the fiscal year, January sees reduced traffic that helps increase your bargaining power.

But buying a car at the end of a model year is also one of the best moments, allowing you to take advantage of seasonal promotions and discounts due to the need to clear out stocks. These periods usually come up in the fall and spring.

We also invite you to check out special incentive programs, such as those offered to certain graduates or for the military, as well as loyalty programs offered by some dealers.

What Questions Should I Ask When Buying a Used Car?

Buying a used car can allow you to get your hands on a great deal, provided you ask the right questions. This allows you to uncover any hidden problems, verify the seller's integrity, and better assess the vehicle's true value. Here are the most relevant questions to ask to make a confident purchase:

Vehicle History

• Puis-je consulter le rapport sur l'historique du véhicule ? (Carfax, etc.)
• Le véhicule a-t-il été impliqué dans un accident ?
• Combien de propriétaires précédents a-t-il eu ?
• Avez-vous les carnets d'entretien ?

Condition and Usage

• What is the vehicle's mileage?
• Has it been mostly driven in the city or on the highway?
• Has it undergone any major repairs or replacements?
• Are there any issues with the engine, transmission, or electronics?
• Are any repairs or replacements needed soon?

Inspection and Test Drive

• May I take it for a test drive?
• Can I have it inspected by a mechanic of my choice?
• Are there any warning lights on the dashboard?

Price and Ownership

• What is your asking price, and is it negotiable?
• Do you have the title in your possession?
• Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?

Extras

• Is the car equipped with a spare tire, a jack, and tools?
• Are there two sets of keys?
• Is the car still under warranty (manufacturer or extended)?

Practical Advice and Conclusion

Do you still have questions about the best time of the year to buy a car? Come and meet with our team of experts at Arbour VW in Laval, on the North Shore of Montreal, near Boisbriand and Blainville.

We will guide you in making the most of current discounts and Volkswagen special offers in Laval, as well as inform you about very attractive Volkswagen financing options so that you can drive away in the car of your dreams, at the very best price. We are looking forward to your visit!