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A CAR expert has revealed the exact week when dealerships slash prices and offer massive discounts every year.
Drivers can save big if they know when to shop for a new ride.
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As an automotive writer with four decades of experience working on and studying cars, Ron Krauch knows when it’s best to head to the dealership.
He grew up in his father’s mechanic shop and started working on cars at age six before joining industry giants like Pontiac, Ford, and CarMax.
Now, he shares crucial tips for drivers, such as three useless services at mechanic shops and why winter is the best time to head to the dealership.
In an exclusive conversation with The U.S. Sun, Krauch said dealers may lower prices to clear out stock and make room for new, incoming models.
There’s also less competition in the colder months as fewer people are browsing lots.
According to Krauch, this can give you great “negotiating power.”
Although drivers can enjoy all these perks throughout winter, the absolute best time to purchase a car is the last week of the year.
“If your timing and budget work, the last week of the year is when the incentives are historically best, and the dealers are trying to end the year on a high note,” he said.
“Do your homework and bargain hard.”
MORE BUYING TIPS
Drivers should check several details in a car before buying, including the tire condition, depth of the tread, and the types of tires being used.
If you buy in the winter, you need to make sure the wheels are in top shape and ready to cruise across icy, snowy roads, Krauch said.
“If it has summer tires, consider the cost of replacing them with winter or all-season tires,” said the expert.
To fight any frost that gathers on windshields, drivers should make sure the heating and cooling systems are effective.
Cold can also be hard on a car’s battery, but drivers can request that dealers perform a test to prove its strength.
Coolant, antifreeze, and oil levels should all be checked, and the type of oil is key to winter driving, said the expert.
Krauch states, “Synthetic oils often perform better in lower temperatures.”
The expert’s final tip? Never buy a car at nighttime.
“We all look great in dim light. This goes for cars, too,” Krauch said.
“Dim light hides many flaws. Don’t accept a deal until you’ve seen it in the light.
“Even under the dealer’s shop lights is far better than the lot.”
Dealership Tips
Here are some expert tips when purchasing a car from a dealership lot:
- 1. Set your price: Ensure you’ve calculated your monthly budget before going to the lot. You should include the car’s loan payment, insurance costs, fuel, and regular maintenance.
- 2. Research: Make sure you know which cars you’re interested in test driving before you reach the dealership.
- 3. Pre-approval: Secure financing before you go to the dealership. Dealerships may give you a better interest rate if they are competing with an outside bank.
- 4. Test away: Get behind the wheel before making any payments. A car purchase will be worth thousands of dollars – drivers should ensure they like the drivetrain, steering feel, and comfort of the car before taking it off the lot
- 5. Haggle: Drivers should always try to negotiate the price. There are so many good cars on the American market – buyers have a strong hand when negotiating price.
Source: Kelley Blue Book
