Are you planning to buy a second-hand car? Well, timing plays an important role in getting the best and most affordable car. So, this guide is all about the timing. We will see data-backed answers on when the best time to buy a used car in Australia.
This applies to all the suburbs. With just the right timing, you can get a premium car at an affordable rate. So, it’s not just about saving money; it’s about getting maximum choices for the car when buying it.
We know it’s not possible for everyone to wait for one specific time. So, we will see multiple times in a year when you can buy used cars in Sydney.
1. End of Financial Year (EOFY) – June
June is the sweet spot for car deals. Why? Dealerships are usually on their way to completing their annual sales target.
When they are completing the annual sales target, they need to clear out the stocks.
So, more people are exchanging their cars with new ones. Even the used car dealers in Sydney have targets to fulfil. So, they will easily negotiate with you on this.
You can get the car at an affordable rate. To make it easier for customers, at My Car Choice, we offer direct sales during this time of the year. So, you can save money without negotiating.
What you can expect during the best time to buy a used car:
- Hefty discounts on advertised prices
- Trade-in bonuses
- Package deals with extras like warranties or free servicing
2. December & Early January
As the year winds down, dealers are keen to move any leftover stock; especially cars registered that calendar year. In December, they’re closing the books. In January, yards are quiet because everyone’s on holiday.
Fewer buyers around = more attention (and potentially better deals) for you. They still have to complete their weekly target.
3. Plate Clearance Sales – January & February
This is when last year’s models suddenly became “old news.” Even if they’re near new or demos, dealers want them gone to make space for newer stock.
For you, that means great-condition cars with low kilometres at a much better price.
4. End of the Month
Sales targets don’t just happen yearly; they’re monthly, too. If a salesperson is just short of meeting their numbers by month’s end, they might sweeten the deal just to lock in the sale.
Pro tip: Be ready to sign on the spot. Having your test drives done and finance sorted puts you in a strong position to negotiate.
5. Midweek or on Rainy Days
Most people shop for cars on weekends. That’s when yards are busiest, and dealers have less time (and incentive) to haggle. But show up on a rainy Tuesday afternoon? You’ve got their full attention.
It’s not just about timing the season; timing the day can give you an edge.
6. When There’s More Supply on the Market
Keep an eye on trends. For example, when rental companies offload fleets, or there’s a spike in trade-ins, the market can get flooded with quality used cars. More supply = lower prices and more choices.
How do I find this? Well, you can simply visit My Car Choice and see the number of listings available. If you see more cars, it clearly means that there is more supply.
What If You’ve Found the Perfect Car But Don’t Have the Cash?
We’ve all been there. You find the one, but your bank account says, “Not today.” The good news? You still have options.
Look for Sales & Promotions
At My Car Choice, we run regular promotions and sales. The best part is that we don’t just run sales at these times. There are regular sales. So, you can take advantage of it whenever you want.
Consider Car Finance with Affordable Repayments
If saving the full amount upfront isn’t realistic, financing can help you grab the deal while it’s hot without blowing your budget.
Bonus: If you get pre-approved for a car loan, you’ll be seen as a serious buyer. That gives you more room to negotiate, especially at Sydney dealerships where competition is stiff and cars move fast.
And with a low-interest loan, you might actually pay less in the long run than if you waited and paid full price later.
You can also finance used cars with My Car Choice financing options.
Final Thoughts on the Best time to buy a used car
There’s no one perfect best time to buy a used car, but there are definitely better times. The given times will offer you a great deal if you can grab it during this time.
We highly recommend EOFY sales, plate clearances, and mainly festival seasons when there are people exchanging their old cars for a new one.
You can keep an eye on My Car Choice’s deals, as we have used cars for sale at regular intervals. You can be worry-free about the quality and engine when buying with My Car Choice, as we take care of these.
