Have you been thinking (and dreaming) about buying a used car for sale recently? Well, did you know you could save a substantial amount of money by carefully timing your purchase? We’re going to share what you need to know to help you get the best deal.
Buying a car late in the year
The last three months of the year are considered the best time to buy a new or used car for sale in South Africa. Let’s take a look at why:
- Year-end sales targets: Many dealerships aim to hit their annual sales targets by December. To achieve this goal, they may offer incentives ranging from great discounts, cashback offers, attractive financing deals, and sometimes even extra perks like extended warranties or free insurance.
- Making space for new models: Many dealerships receive new models at the end of each year, so they need to clear inventory to make space. These vehicles often offer excellent value at discounted prices and may include added incentives.
- Gift yourself a payment break: December is typically the cheapest month to buy a car as many dealerships offer a ‘payment holiday’. This allows buyers to defer their first payment for a few months, which eases the financial load over the holiday season.
- Fewer shoppers, better offers: If buying a car between October and December isn’t an option, consider January. With consumers focused on financial recovery after the December holiday period, dealerships in January are naturally quieter, so there may be some competitive deals to explore. A plus of buying a car in January means it will be registered as a vehicle from the new year, which will slightly increase its resale value.
Top-notch wheels, clearance deals
Maximise value and savings with our top tips:
- Make knowledge your superpower: Do your research! Compare prices and deals from multiple dealerships or private sellers. Use reputable online resources to get a good overview of market prices.
- Negotiate like a pro: Don’t accept the first offer. Use your research to politely push for a better deal, as dealerships often have some flexibility to meet their sales targets.
- Score bonus benefits: Ask about potential incentives beyond a price reduction. These could include free service plans, extended warranties, or insurance deals. These all add significant value to your purchase and sweeten the deal.
- Consider the big picture: Before you fall in love and sign on for your dream vehicle deal, consider the impact on your overall fuel expenses, monthly instalments, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums.
- Drive for life: This is the perfect time to pause and remind yourself of the purpose of your vehicle purchase. Is it for daily commutes, family trips, or off-road adventures? Choose a used car for sale that truly fits your lifestyle, prioritising essential features like safety and reliability over luxury extras.
- Explore private sellers: If you buy a used car for sale directly from a private seller, they may be more flexible with pricing at the end of the year, especially if you’re looking to sell quickly.
The road ahead
The best time to buy a car is towards the end of the year, between October to December, when dealerships offer attractive discounts, incentives, and promotions. Take your time to consider the pros and cons of your options to secure the best deal, and drive off in a car that suits both your budget and lifestyle.
Looking to buy a used car for sale? Choose Weelee for the best deal in South Africa.