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Most people think the best time to buy a car is when the sun’s shining and the forecourts are full of sparkling stock. But those in the know will tell you a different story: the smartest time to bag a bargain is actually right after the New Year, in January.
It’s not the most glamorous month. The weather’s grim, daylight is short, and wallets are feeling the pinch after Christmas. But if you’re a car buyer, those factors all work in your favour — and dealerships know it. Here’s why January could be the secret month for getting a great deal on your next car.
Dealerships operate on quarterly and annual sales targets, but there’s also the hangover from December to consider. Many will be keen to get a strong start to the year to reassure their manufacturers and head offices. That means they’re often more open to negotiations on price and extras in January than in busier months.
By January, forecourts are holding stock that’s technically “last year’s” model — even if it’s only a few weeks old. Whether you’re buying new or nearly new, cars registered in the previous calendar year can be seen as less desirable, so dealers will want to move them quickly before the March plate change.
December’s distractions and January’s bleak weather mean fewer buyers visit showrooms. Less footfall equals more time and attention from sales staff. That can work in your favour, especially if you’ve done your homework on prices and are ready to buy.
Manufacturers sometimes roll out enticing finance deals in January to help kickstart sales. Low-rate PCPs, deposit contributions, and extra incentives may be available — particularly on cars that are due for a facelift or replacement later in the year.
If you’re part-exchanging your current car, January can sometimes work in your favour. While trade-in values can dip after the New Year, dealers needing stock for forecourts ahead of the spring rush may be more generous than expected — especially for in-demand models.
It’s not just dealerships where January deals can be found. Many private sellers are more motivated after Christmas bills arrive, and with less demand from other buyers, you may find them more open to negotiation.
January might not be the month most people associate with buying a car, but for savvy buyers, it’s an opportunity to snap up a bargain while the rest of the world is huddled indoors. With the right research, timing, and negotiation skills, you could drive away in something special for less than you’d expect.