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When Not to Buy

Get the best deal possible on your new rig with these expert tips.

Car-buying experts have identified certain times consumers should delay or avoid purchasing a vehicle. Here are four examples, some of the reasoning may surprise you.

1. When the price of popularity is high.

You may be smitten with the new release of a certain make and model of car, but if the rest of the world is too, then, unfortunately, this popularity increases the price. Buying that new car when it’s in high demand isn’t the best choice, because that’s when car dealers and manufacturers have the upper hand with price. If at all possible, wait for the attention to dwindle even if it means living with your current vehicle for a few months longer. (Keep reading for other benefits to not buying a fresh-off-the-assembly-line car.)

2. When credit inquiries freak out the financer.

If you opt to finance a new ride and are shopping around for the best rate, try to condense this into a 14-day window. The reason is when credit inquiries from multiple dealerships come in within the 14 day period, they all basically count as a single inquiry. However, if you spread out your research between weeks or months, the previous loan application could have a negative impact on your credit score and the loan rate you are ultimately offered. So plan your applications and credit checks strategically, or decide when you’ll accept the financing package regardless of the terms.

3. Stop shopping in the spring.

The absolute worst season for buying anything car related is the Spring. From new tires to a new car, if you wait until August or even fall, the dealerships are more flexible on price. People tend to get an influx of money from tax refunds in the Spring, and head straight to the car lot to spend it. Hold off if you can, and time your vehicle expenditures for August, which tends to have the lowest average transaction costs of the year.

4. Blindsided by new model envy.

New releases in any industry garner excitement, anticipation and consumer competition to be the first to own the most up-to-date version of __________ (flavour of the month here). Before you get sidetracked by a vehicle’s sleek curves and bonus perks, do some research. Often the dazzle is skin deep, and under all that, the vehicle might be virtually identical to past models. Patiently exploring resources that have done all the homework necessary to compare model years, like Car and Driver will also save you the headache of buying a lemon. Consumer Reports is an independent agency that drives, investigates and reviews new vehicles, so waiting for their annual report on what to buy and what to avoid, could save you money and heartbreak in the long run.

With these ideas, you’re better armed to get the new car you want, and keep money in your pocket. Also keep in mind that the most important thing you can do to get the most value of your vehicle when you choose to sell is to keep up with proper maintenance.

The importance of maintaining components like engine, transmission, and steering is obvious, you also need to maintain the exterior and interior of your vehicle. Regular detailing is the ultimate way to keep your car looking great and signal to potential buyers that your car has been properly cared for. If you have any questions, never hesitate to reach out and give us a call – we’re always happy to chat.

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