Buying a used car is a major decision, and timing plays a crucial role in getting the best deal. CarGurus, one of the most trusted platforms for used car shopping, offers powerful tools like price analysis, deal ratings, and historical price trends. But beyond the features of the platform itself, knowing when to buy can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best times to purchase a used car on CarGurus.
Why Timing Matters in the Used Car Market
Used car prices fluctuate throughout the year due to supply, demand, and even dealership goals. Just like any other market, the laws of economics apply. By choosing the right time to buy, you can potentially save thousands of dollars or get better value for your money.
Best Times of the Year to Buy a Used Car on CarGurus
End of the Year: November and December
The holiday season isn’t just good for gift shopping — it’s also prime time for car deals. Dealers are often trying to meet annual sales targets and clear out inventory to make room for the new year’s models. CarGurus users will frequently see “Great Deal” tags more often in late November through December.
Tip: Look during the week between Christmas and New Year’s for potential last-minute markdowns.
Early in the Year: January and February
After the holiday rush, demand slows down in January and February. This can lead to dealers being more flexible on pricing, especially if they didn’t hit their year-end goals. Inventory may be a bit more limited, but it’s a buyer’s market.
Why it works on CarGurus: Fewer shoppers means less competition, and you can use the CarGurus deal score to confidently negotiate or pick the best option.
End of the Month
Dealers often have monthly quotas, so shopping during the last few days of any month can lead to extra incentives or price reductions. Sales staff may be more motivated to make a deal before the calendar flips.
Best Days of the Week to Shop on CarGurus
Monday Through Wednesday
Weekdays — especially the earlier part of the week — are typically quieter, both online and at dealerships. This allows you more attention from sales reps and better chances to negotiate, and new listings posted over the weekend are still fresh.
Avoid the Weekend Rush
Saturday and Sunday are high-traffic days for both online platforms like CarGurus and physical dealerships. With more competition from other buyers, it might be harder to snag that “Great Deal” before someone else clicks or calls.
Seasonal Trends and Market Factors
Fall: Trade-In Season
Many drivers trade in their current vehicles in the fall to buy new models, which means a higher influx of used cars hits the market. More inventory can mean better choices and better prices.
Spring and Summer: High Prices, High Demand
As tax refunds roll in and warm weather hits, car shopping spikes — and so do prices. If you’re shopping during these seasons, be more selective and use CarGurus’ price trends and market value tools to ensure you’re still getting a fair deal.
How to Use CarGurus Tools to Maximize Timing
Deal Ratings
CarGurus categorizes listings with tags like “Great Deal,” “Good Deal,” or “Overpriced.” These are based on historical data and market comparison, helping you identify value no matter when you’re shopping.
Price Drops and Alerts
Set up alerts for specific models and use filters to track price drops. When a vehicle drops significantly in price, it may indicate a motivated seller — a great opportunity to buy.
Final Thoughts: Be Ready, Be Patient
While timing can give you an edge, preparation is just as important. Do your research, get pre-approved for financing, and be ready to move quickly when the right deal pops up. CarGurus provides the transparency and tools — you just need to know when to act.
In summary:
- Shop at the end of the month or year.
- Avoid high-demand seasons.
- Use CarGurus features like deal ratings and price alerts.
- Be ready to jump on a great deal when it appears.
(FAQs)
1. Does CarGurus show price history for used cars?
Yes, CarGurus displays a price history chart on each vehicle listing so you can see how the price has changed over time. This helps you spot trends and know whether a price drop is part of a pattern or a sudden discount.
2. Can I negotiate prices I see on CarGurus?
Absolutely. While CarGurus itself doesn’t handle negotiations, many of the listings come from dealerships or private sellers who are open to offers. Use the deal rating and price history as leverage.
3. How accurate are the “Great Deal” and “Good Deal” labels on CarGurus?
CarGurus uses market analysis based on millions of data points to rate deals. While no system is perfect, their pricing algorithm is one of the most reliable tools for identifying under- or over-priced vehicles.
4. Is it better to buy from a dealer or a private seller on CarGurus?
It depends on your priorities. Dealers offer more protections like warranties and financing, while private sellers may offer lower prices. Use CarGurus filters to compare both and look for the best fit for your needs and budget.
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