Best Time of the Year to Buy a Car in Canada

Buying a car is a big decision, and timing can make a huge difference in the price you pay. If you're looking to buy a car from a dealership in Ontario, knowing the best time to buy a car can help you save thousands of dollars. This article explains when and why specific times are ideal for getting a great deal.

 

1. End of the Month

Dealerships have monthly sales targets. At the end of the month, salespeople and managers often push harder to close deals to meet their goals. This means they may offer better discounts or incentives to encourage you to make a purchase. Visiting the dealership during the last few days of the month can give you more negotiating power.

 

2. End of the Year

The best time to buy a car is often during the final months of the year. Dealerships need to clear out their inventory to make room for next year’s models. This means November and December are great months to find significant discounts. Look for special promotions, rebates, or year-end sales events.

 

For example, if it’s December and a dealership still has cars from the current model year, they’ll likely lower prices to move them off the lot before January.

 

3. When New Models Arrive

When new car models hit the showroom, dealerships are eager to sell off the older inventory. In Ontario, new models typically arrive in late summer or early fall. If you’re open to buying a car from the previous model year, this is a fantastic time to shop. The cars are still brand-new but may come with hefty discounts.

 

4. Holiday Sales Events

Holidays often bring excellent sales opportunities. Some of the best times to buy a car include:

• Boxing Day (December 26): Many dealerships run special promotions with deep discounts.
• Black Friday (late November): Increasingly popular in Ontario, Black Friday deals can include reduced prices or extra perks like free winter tires.
• Canada Day (July 1): Look for summer sales events with incentives like cash rebates or low financing rates.

 

5. End of a Generation or Discontinued Models

When a car is about to undergo a major redesign or be discontinued, dealerships tend to offer discounts to sell off the outgoing model. This can be one of the best times to buy a car, especially if you don’t mind having the “older” version of a vehicle.

 

6. Slow Sales Periods

Winter months (January and February) are typically slow for car sales in Ontario. Fewer customers visit dealerships during this time, which means salespeople are more motivated to close deals. You might find lower prices and more flexible negotiations during these quieter months.

 

7. Midweek Visits

Most people shop for cars on weekends, so dealerships are often busier then. Visiting during the week, especially midweek, can give you more attention from sales staff and increase your chances of negotiating a better deal.

 

Tips for Getting the Best Deal

• Do Your Research: Before heading to the dealership, compare prices online and check manufacturer promotions.
• Be Prepared to Negotiate: The listed price isn’t always the final price. Knowing when it’s the best time to buy a car gives you an edge during negotiations.
• Watch for Financing Offers: Sometimes, dealerships offer 0% financing or low-interest rates during special events.
• Trade-Ins: If you’re trading in your current car, the dealership might offer more value to close the deal.

Whether you’re buying your first car or upgrading, timing it right ensures you get the best value for your money. Happy car shopping!