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When to Buy a Car in Australia - A Complete Guide

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Timing is everything when it comes to deciding when to buy a car. Whether you’re a seasoned car buyer or a newbie to the car purchasing game, knowing the best times to buy can save you a significant amount of money. So, when should you pull the trigger on your car purchase? Let’s dive into the best times to buy a car in Australia.


1. Start of the Year:


The New Year brings with it fantastic opportunities to snag a bargain on when to buy a new car. As dealerships make way for newer models arriving in February or March, they often hold clearance sales at the beginning of the year. This means you can negotiate better deals on last year’s models. Just keep in mind that the selection might be limited as dealerships clear out their inventory.

During the start of the year, dealerships are motivated to move older inventory to make space for incoming models. This creates a perfect storm for buyers looking to score a deal. With dealerships eager to clear their lots, you’ll have more leverage to negotiate a lower price or additional perks.


2. End of the Calendar Year:


December is another great time to buy a car in Australia. With the end of the year looming, dealerships are eager to move their current stock to make room for the next year’s models. This urgency often translates into attractive incentives for buyers, such as additional equipment or cash bonuses. Plus, purchasing in December means you’re getting a car that’s only a few months old, fresh off the production line.

As the holiday season approaches, dealerships ramp up their efforts to entice buyers. Special promotions and discounts abound, making December an ideal time to strike a deal. Additionally, purchasing a car in December means you’ll likely benefit from any manufacturer incentives aimed at clearing out remaining inventory.


3. End of Financial Year (EOFY):


June marks the end of Australia’s financial year, making it a popular time of when to buy a car. Dealerships and manufacturers typically offer discounts, cheaper financing options, and free services to boost sales before the EOFY. You might even score bonuses like extended warranties or complimentary accessories. Just be prepared for stiff competition from other buyers vying for the best deals.

The EOFY is a crucial time for businesses and dealerships alike. With sales targets to meet and quotas to fill, dealerships pull out all the stops to attract buyers. Savvy shoppers can take advantage of this competitive environment to negotiate favourable terms and secure significant savings on their car purchase.


4. End of the Month:


If you can’t wait for the EOFY or the end of the year, consider shopping at the end of each month. Dealerships often have sales targets to meet, making them more willing to negotiate and offer discounts to close deals before the month’s end. Keep an eye out for end-of-month sales promotions for your chance to save big on your car purchase.

The end of the month is crunch time for dealerships. With sales targets looming, they’re motivated to move inventory and meet their quotas. This presents an excellent opportunity for buyers to capitalise on discounts and incentives offered to close deals before the month ends. AKA this is an ideal time to be looking and when to buy a car here in Australia.




5. Model Run-Out:


Keep an eye on model cycles and updates to capitalise on run-out deals. When a new model is released, dealerships are eager to clear out older inventory, offering significant discounts on outgoing models. Knowing when a model has been on the market for several years or when a new version is due can help you negotiate a better price on a run-out model.

Model run-out deals are a win-win for both dealerships and buyers. Dealerships can make room for newer inventory, while buyers benefit from discounted prices on perfectly capable vehicles. By staying informed about model cycles and updates, you can position yourself to take advantage of these lucrative deals.


Our Top Tips of When to Buy a Car


Holidays and Special Events:

Major holidays and events like Boxing Day or EOFY sales events often come with attractive car deals. Manufacturers may offer huge discounts or freebies to draw in customers. Do your research to find out which holidays and events offer the best deals from local dealerships.


End-of-Car Cycles:

Watch for the end-of-car-design and end-of-car-life cycles. When a car model undergoes a redesign or is discontinued, dealerships offer discounts to clear out old inventory. Just be sure to check why a vehicle is being discontinued to avoid any potential issues.


Seasonal Trends:

Consider seasonal trends when buying a car. For example, convertibles sell better in summer, while four-wheel drives are in demand during autumn and winter. Take advantage of off-season sales to snag a deal on the type of car you’re looking for.




Additional Insights on When to Buy a Car


Now that we’ve covered the best times of when to buy a car, let’s delve deeper into some additional insights to help you make an informed decision.


1. Take Advantage of Clearance Sales:

Aside from end-of-year and EOFY sales, keep an eye out for clearance events held by dealerships. These sales occur when dealerships need to make space for incoming models or when specific models aren’t selling well. You can find incredible discounts and incentives during these clearance events, making it an opportune time to strike a deal.


2. Be Mindful of Market Trends:

Pay attention to market trends and economic factors that can influence car prices. For example, during periods of economic uncertainty, dealerships may offer more aggressive discounts to stimulate sales. These sales are an ideal example of when to buy a car. Conversely, when demand is high, such as during a booming economy, prices may be less negotiable. Staying informed about market conditions can help you time your purchase for maximum savings.


3. Consider Time-Sensitive Promotions

Keep an eye out for time-sensitive promotions offered by manufacturers or dealerships. These promotions may include limited-time offers on specific models or bonus incentives for early buyers. By taking advantage of these promotions, you can secure additional savings or benefits on your car purchase.


4. Leverage Online Resources:

In today’s digital age, there are numerous online resources available to help you research and compare car prices. Therefore you have no excuse for not knowing when to buy a car. Websites and apps allow you to compare prices, read reviews, and even negotiate deals with dealerships online. Take advantage of these resources to arm yourself with valuable information before stepping foot in a dealership.


5. Don’t Overlook Used Cars:

While much of the focus is often on new car purchases, don’t overlook the potential savings offered by buying a used car. Used cars typically depreciate at a slower rate than new cars, meaning you can often find great deals on lightly used vehicles. Additionally, certified pre-owned programs offer added peace of mind with warranties and thorough inspections.


6. Negotiate Wisely:

Negotiation is a crucial aspect of car buying, regardless of the time of year. Arm yourself with knowledge about the car’s value, incentives, and competing offers before entering negotiations. Be prepared to walk away if the deal isn’t right, and don’t hesitate to negotiate for additional perks or services to sweeten the deal.


7. Plan Ahead for Future Needs:

Consider your long-term needs and future plans when purchasing a car. If you anticipate needing a larger vehicle for a growing family or foresee changes in your commuting habits, factor these considerations into your decision-making process. Choosing a car that meets your needs both now and in the future can save you from having to upgrade sooner than necessary.


Final Thoughts:


Buying a car is a significant investment, so it pays to time your purchase right. Whether you’re aiming for end-of-year bargains, EOFY sales, or end-of-month discounts, knowing when to buy a car can save you money. Keep these tips in mind to score the best deal on your next car purchase in Australia.

And remember, whether you’re cruising in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Share with Oscar helps you find the perfect parking spot that fits your needs and budget. Find a convenient parking space where you need it and when you need it. To learn more money-saving tips on your next car purchase, check out our article on the 10 hidden costs of buying a car in Australia.

So there you have it, timing is everything—especially when it comes to parking. That’s why we started Share with Oscar – A booking platform that unlocks the city’s private parking and allows you to book parking by the hour, day or month! Think of it as the airbnb of parking. – but cheaper. Book your spot today and enjoy hassle-free parking wherever you go!

Happy Buying!


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