If you’ve been browsing to find the best time to buy a used car for even a week, you’ve probably noticed something: One day, everything looks reasonable, the next day, the same model is suddenly priced higher, or there’s nothing decent in your budget.
Choosing the best time to buy a used car is an important decision. It’s not just about finding the right make or model — it’s also about purchasing it at the right time. During your research, you may have just noticed that June and the December–January holiday period are often recommended as the best time to buy a used car in Australia. This timeline represents industry data that shows these months consistently offer better value for buyers.
Why does timing matter when buying a used car?
Used car prices, like any other commodity, are shaped by supply and demand. But timing adds another important layer. Knowing the best time to buy a used car helps you understand market prices and sellers are more open to negotiating, too.
Dealer inventory cycles
When new models are released, dealerships often receive a lot of trade-ins. This is likely the best time of year to buy a used car in Australia, this commonly happens around March and October, when new registration plates are issued and updated models hit showrooms.
Sales targets and incentives
Like any other sales operation, dealers also work to meet monthly, quarterly, and yearly targets. Making the end of the financial year (EOFY) in June one of the best times of year to buy a used car. Many dealerships are keen to clear stock and close as many sales as possible before June 30. This urgency more often than not, is bound to work in the buyer’s favour.
Seasonal buying trends
Spring and early summer (around October to December) tend to be busy. People plan road trips, change jobs, or buy before the holidays. High demand tends to keep prices steady. You should also keep an eye on winter (roughly June to August), which is often quieter. Fewer buyers are shopping during this time, which can work in your favour during negotiation — making it a top contender for the best time to buy a used car.
Public holidays and sales events
Events like EOFY sales, Boxing Day, and Australia Day are commonly used by dealerships to promote offers and clear older stock. Which makes it ideal as the best time to buy a used car. While not every deal is a bargain, these periods often bring genuine opportunities if you’re prepared — so it’s better to keep track.
Quick tip: Even the best-timed deal can fall apart if the car has underlying problems. Looking at cars that have already been properly inspected can help avoid unexpected repair costs later.
The best time to buy a used car in Australia and why these windows work
1) End of Financial Year (EOFY): late May to June
EOFY is largely considered the best time of year to buy a used car in Australia. It affects the used car market indirectly because strong new-car deals encourage buyers to trade in their existing vehicles, increasing the supply of used cars and giving buyers more choice. If you can plan ahead, start watching the market in late May and be ready to act in June. As 30 June approaches, dealerships often:
- Run promotions to enhance sales numbers
- Clear older stock before the new financial year begins
- Become more flexible with negotiation
2) December: year-end clear-outs
December is another period that often falls into the best time of year to buy a used car category.
- Dealerships often want to unload ageing stock
- The year-end momentum makes sellers keen to close deals
- Fewer buyers are actively shopping, particularly late in the month
3) January: another chance to save
Missing out in December doesn’t mean you are missing out on a chance to get good deals. It still qualifies as one of the best times to buy a used car, especially if you’ve done your research.
Here’s why January can be just as good, and sometimes even better:
- Dealers may still have leftover stock they want to move
- Private sellers may drop prices to cover New Year’s expenses
- The market can feel calmer, which helps you shop without pressure
Lesser-known times that can offer better used car deals
1) End of the month and end of the quarter
Car dealerships don’t just have annual targets; they also need to meet their monthly and quarterly targets. Sales teams may be more flexible to secure one last sale before a deadline. Making it not only the best time of year to buy a used car but also selling one. The last few days of the month — especially during March, June, September, and December — can work in your favour if you are looking for the best time to buy a used car in Australia.
2) Holiday weekends
You need to be on the lookout for deals that are offered during long weekends like Labour Day, Easter, and Australia Day, because these holidays overlap with the best time to buy a used car. They can be good opportunities, but they can also attract crowds. If you’re shopping during a holiday sale, be ready to act quickly.
3) New model releases
It is important to note that most cars go through a design refresh every three to four years, while full model changes usually happen every seven years. When new models roll out, used cars often become better value for money. Owners trade in to upgrade, naturally — dealerships want to make space for new arrivals. If you’re not set on having the very latest model, buying just after a new release can mean solid savings with very little compromise.
4) Off-peak months: July to September
With fewer people actively shopping, July to September is often a slower stretch in the used car market and can be another outlet for the best time of year to buy a used car. It’s a good window to take your time, compare options, and negotiate without the pressure of heavy competition. That said, this phase doesn’t apply to every car. Popular models like the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, and Hyundai i30 tend to hold their value all year round, simply because demand for them usually doesn’t drop.
But if you’re open to other models, this seasonal slowdown can be beneficial. With less rush and more choice, it’s often easier to find a solid used car at a price that makes sense.
Are there specific days that are better for buying a used car
Interestingly enough, the day you shop can matter almost as much as the month when you are figuring out the best time of year to buy a used car. While there’s no magic date that guarantees a bargain, some days in the month tend to be less hectic. With fewer people around, you’re more likely to get proper time to inspect the car, ask questions, and think things through without feeling rushed.
1) Weekdays can be better than weekends
Mid-week generally witnesses less traffic at car yards. That usually means:
- more time to inspect properly
- less “rush” from staff
- fewer competing buyers
2) End-of-month days can help
Dealers are often keen to close deals before the calendar changes, which creates another chance for you to explore deals during one of the best times of year to buy a used car. If you’re car hunting around the end of the month, you could be in a slightly stronger position.
At Cars24, pricing is upfront and transparent all month long, so you don’t have to wait for the “right day.” But understanding how timing affects the broader market can still help you judge whether a deal makes sense.
Preparing your finances before you buy a used car
Timing is integral to buying a car, but so is financial preparedness. If you sort your finances beforehand, it helps you:
- know exactly how much you can spend
- act quickly when the best time to buy a used car appears
- feel more confident when discussing price
If you already have enough savings, paying for the car upfront means you won’t pay any interest. That can save money in the long run. However, many people choose a car loan instead because a loan can help spread the cost over time and keep some cash aside for other expenses.
Things you need to consider before choosing a car loan
- Fixed vs variable interest rates
Fixed rates stay the same, so your repayments don’t change. Variable rates can go up or down depending on the market. - Secured vs unsecured loans
Secured loans usually have lower interest rates because the car is used as security. Unsecured loans don’t need security, but they often cost more.
With Cars24, you can apply for vehicle finance online even before you’ve chosen a car. Getting pre-approved which makes buying during the best time of year to buy a used car far less stressful.
What are the benefits of used car loans?
Lower interest rates: Used car loans often have lower interest rates than credit cards or personal loans. This happens because the car is used as security, which lowers the risk for lenders.
- Flexible repayments: You can select a loan term that suits your budget. Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments but less interest overall, while longer terms mean smaller monthly payments that are easier to manage.
- More choice when buying: With financing in place, you’re not limited to what you can pay upfront. A loan can help you look at newer cars or models with better features, without pinching pennies for your budget.
- Simple and quick process: Applying for finance through Cars24 is done online and is designed to be hassle-free. Approvals are usually quick, so you can move forward once you find a car you like.
How to buy a used car with Cars24
Cars24 is changing the way Australians look for the best time to buy a used car, making the process simpler and more transparent. Every car sold by Cars24:
- passes a 300-point technical inspection
- comes with roadworthy certification
- includes checks on vehicle background and service history
You can:
- buy online or book a test drive (where available)
- choose home delivery or hub pick-up
- receive a comprehensive three-month warranty
There’s also a 7-day return option, so if the car isn’t right for you, it can be returned within the first seven days.
With online buying, clear inspections, and optional finance support, Cars24 gives buyers more control and peace of mind.
FAQs
Should I wait for EOFY sales to buy a used car?
If you have time and flexibility, EOFY (June) is one of the strongest windows. You tend to see more stock and sellers more open to negotiating.
How do interest rates affect used car prices?
When rates rise, loans can become more expensive, which can reduce demand and prices may go down. When rates are low, more people borrow, and demand can rise.
How do I check if a used car is under finance or written off?
A PPSR check is the standard step in Australia.
Can I get finance for a used car before I choose the exact one?
Yes. Many buyers get pre-approval first so they can shop with a clear budget.
The bottom line
If you combine careful preparation with the best time to buy a used car in Australia, you’re much more likely to drive away in a reliable used car at a fair price — not just a cheap one. And if you want a more guided route that still lets you shop smartly during these windows, Cars24 is built to help you move quickly, safely, and with fewer surprises.
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