When’s the Best Time to Buy a Car? You Might Be Surprised

Looking to buy a car within the next year? Timing isn’t just important when merging onto the highway; it can make a major difference in how much you pay. From the sticker price to your auto loan rate, the time of year you buy can help you score serious savings.

Let’s look at the best times to get your car-buying journey in gear and why the month of May might be the moment you’ve been waiting for.

May: A Great Month to Buy a Car and Save Big

If you’re shopping now, you’re in luck. May marks a turning point in the auto industry. After a slower winter season, dealerships are eager to boost spring sales, so you’ll start seeing special incentives and cash back offers.

Even better? Scott Credit Union’s Spring Auto Sale is happening now! This annual event makes May an ideal time to buy, offering:

• Low auto loan rates.
• Flexible terms tailored to your needs.
• Fast pre-approvals so you can shop quickly and confidently.

Don’t miss your chance to drive into savings this spring. With SCU, your timing is right on track.

Other Great Times to Buy a Car

If May isn’t the perfect time for you to purchase your vehicle, keep these high-savings times in mind:

October

Fall brings fresh opportunities. October kicks off the new model year, which means dealerships are ready to clear out last year’s inventory. If you’re open to a slightly older vehicle, you can score significant discounts on outgoing models.

November

Deals ramp up while inventory winds down. With Black Friday and year-end sales, November is one of the best months to find a bargain. Just be sure to act fast, as popular models and colors may sell out quickly.

New Year’s (December 31 – January 1)

End the year or start the new one with a new ride. These two days often feature some of the biggest promotions of the year, as dealerships finalize their books and clear inventory.

Bonus Times to Keep in Mind

Even if it’s not a traditional sales season, there are still smart times to shop:

• Between design cycles – Cars near the end of their model run often get marked down as manufacturers prep for redesigns.
• Mondays – Dealerships are quieter, giving you more attention and potentially more negotiating power.
• Three-day weekends – Look for big events and incentives around Memorial Day, Labor Day, July 4th, and Presidents’ Day.

Combine Great Timing with an Auto Loan from SCU

No matter when you’re ready to buy, Scott Credit Union is here to help you save. With competitive auto loan rates, quick approvals, and a team of helpful specialists, you can feel confident from start to finish.

If buying a car is on your horizon, there’s no better time to make it happen than during SCU’s Spring Auto Sale. Get pre-approved, explore dealership offers, and take advantage of exclusive member benefits designed to make car buying easy and affordable. Apply for an auto loan today and drive away happy.