Buying a new or used car is a significant decision that, according to experts, should take months of thought and research.
But what if you need something right now? You best get looking. You can start by taking a look at these used and nearly new cars for sale.
Now if you do have the time, there are a lot of ways to get the most for your money.
The Best Time Of Year To Buy A Car
This broadly depends on whether you’re buying used or new. And if you’re looking for the newest number plate or not. Or if you’re particularly bothered about specking a car exactly to your liking.
British buyers still like going for March and September time, as this is when the number plates change for new cars. There’s nothing wrong with this. New finance deals are offered all-year round.
However, for new cars, you’re more likely to get a good deal around May/August and December/January. This is when you might find ‘pre-registered’ cars. These are cars the dealer has registered in order to fulfill sales targets. They’re still brand new, but they might just not have the latest number plate.
For used cars it’s a bit different. June to August is a good time as is November to January. This is to do with the dealer’s stock levels. They need to make more room for newer more profitable models.
With cheaper used cars, say sub £5,000 on the private market, it’s a bit more up in the air. And it’s more of a case of what’s around and close to you.
What about the chip shortages?
Basically all of the manufacturers are feeling the strain of the semiconductor computer chip shortages.
Most of them say these problems will remain an issue well into 2022. While it shouldn’t affect cash pricing, don’t expect to find many stellar finance offers until stock levels improve.
As fewer new cars are available, buyers are looking at second-hand offerings, moving the price for used models up too.
Top tips
Buy a used convertible in the winter
Less demand = cheaper!
Buy a used 4×4 in the summer
Less demand = cheaper!
Buy a new old model
Manufacturers are forever launching new models. Dealers will often have new stock of the old model in place. This is where you can really haggle.
Don’t be afraid to haggle
Dealers are forever pushing finance products on buyers. While the figures all seem wrapped up in a neat little bow, they’re not. Even if they can’t change the APR, dealers have wiggle room on the cash price, lowering your monthly cost.
Don’t be afraid not to buy
Leasing is a viable alternative to buying. It’s basically like renting. Set up an initial deposit, pay your monthly payments, and whoosh, time for a new one. There are pros and cons of this but it can be a canny way to drive a new car for a cheap price. Especially if you like swapping cars regularly.