Everyone wants to make sure they’re getting a good deal on a new car. After scouring listings at nearby dealerships, you probably have a shortlist of potential vehicles that fit you or your family’s needs, fall within your budget, and seem like a reasonable price based on online estimates.
One variable that deserves just as much attention? Timing.
The day and month you shop can influence how much flexibility a dealership has when negotiating. While a few days’ difference won’t guarantee that you’re getting a bargain, shopping at the right time can improve the odds of scoring a deal.
Learn the best times to buy a car, what days to avoid, and other strategies to make sure you’re getting the best price possible.
The Best Day of the Week to Buy a Car
If you work traditional business hours, weekends are probably most convenient to visit multiple dealerships. However, as that’s the case for most people, that’s when dealerships are their busiest.
Busy showrooms and dealer lots mean shoppers may feel more pressure to make a quick decision. Ray Shefska, co-founder of CarEdge, recommends aiming for the middle of the week instead.
“Wednesday is best, particularly in the afternoon when staff is more focused and dealerships are less crowded,” says Shefska.
This is the same for new or used car shopping.
“The same timing rules apply, at least when shopping at used car dealerships,” he says. “If you’re buying from private sellers, timing is less important. However, be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection to protect your wallet, and see the original window sticker.”
Other Strategies to Save Money While Car Shopping
Days of the week are the only timing considerations. Shopping at the end of the month gives buyers stronger negotiating leverage because dealerships may be trying to meet sales goals or clear out inventory.
According to Shefska, that means they’re more motivated to cut deals. However, sometimes there are exceptions to this rule.
“The exception is when holiday car sales fall early in the month, like Independence Day for example,” says Shefska.
If you’re not in urgent need of a new vehicle, wait until the end of the year as dealerships often discount current model year vehicles before new inventory arrives, creating additional opportunities for savings.
Sources
Interviewed Source
Ray Shefska, co-founder of CarEdge; email interview, July 2026.
Other Primary Sources
Federal Trade Commission (FTC), “Buying a Used Car From a Dealer”
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