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- account_circleCarTango Blog Team
- event_note18 February 2025
- update12 August 2025
Every March and September, the UK’s new vehicle registration plates hit the market. For buyers, this raises the same question year after year: is it smarter to buy a car just before the plates change, or wait until after?
The truth is, both options have benefits — but which is right for you depends on your priorities.
Buying Before the Plate Change
Pros:
- Dealer Discounts: Dealers often push to clear “old plate” stock in February, leading to better deals on both new and nearly-new cars. These offers can mean significant savings, especially if you’re flexible on the exact model or colour.
- Immediate Delivery: If you need a car straight away, buying before the plate change helps you avoid the busy March rush and potential waiting times.
- Wide Choice of Stock: You have the full pick of what dealers currently have in stock, without worrying about supply chain delays that sometimes affect the release of new plate vehicles.
Cons:
- Older Plate on Paper: Your new car will carry the previous registration format, which can make it seem older to some buyers when it comes time to resell. While this doesn’t affect the car’s condition, it may influence perceived value.
- Slightly Lower Resale Value: On average, cars registered just before the plate change may sell for a bit less than their March-registered counterparts — though this difference usually isn’t dramatic.
Buying After the Plate Change
Pros:
- Latest Plate: A March-registered car shows the newest plate, which can be appealing to buyers and may hold value better over time. It can also be a small status symbol for some drivers.
- Prestige Factor: The allure of having the latest plate is strong, especially for buyers who like to keep up with the latest models and trends.
- Fresh Stock: Dealers typically receive the newest models with the latest specifications around this time, giving you access to the most up-to-date features.
Cons:
- Less Negotiating Power: Demand peaks in March as many buyers rush to get the latest plate, so dealers are less likely to offer big discounts compared to the quiet month before.
- Longer Wait Times: Popular models might have waiting lists or delivery delays, so you may have to be patient.
Seasonal Impact on Demand and Pricing
It’s worth noting that the months around the plate change are often among the busiest in the car market. Buyers eager to get the “new plate” effect flood dealerships, sometimes pushing prices up. Conversely, dealers aim to clear out older stock beforehand, creating a narrow window for bargains.
Timing your purchase in this cycle can make a real difference to the price you pay — but it’s also essential to consider your personal needs. If your current car is on its last legs, waiting for the new plates might not be practical.
Final Thoughts
Whether you buy before or after the new registration plates arrive largely depends on what matters most to you: getting the best deal today, or having the latest plate on your vehicle. Both choices have their merits.
The key is to research, shop around, and make sure the car fits your budget and lifestyle, regardless of the plate on the front.
