Shop during the last 3–5 days of any month. Salespeople and managers are often just a few units away from triggering large manufacturer bonuses and are more willing to sacrifice profit on a single car to hit those goals.

Timing your purchase to coincide with dealership and manufacturer sales cycles can save you thousands of dollars.

Avoid weekends when showrooms are crowded. Visiting early in the week ensures you get more of the salesperson’s attention and a quieter environment for negotiation.

As new 2027 models begin arriving, dealers must clear out 2026 inventory. This period often features significant manufacturer rebates and low APR financing offers (sometimes as low as 0%) to move the "old" stock.

The Ultimate Guide to Securing the Best Price on a New Car (2026 Edition)