Easter 2026 runs from Friday 6th to Monday 9th April. While most Aussies are planning road trips and backyard barbecues, a growing number of smart buyers are using this long weekend to do something that will pay off in the long run – buying a used car at the right price from an impeccable dealer.
This blog discusses how to make the most of the upcoming sale and offers, what to avoid and what to grab.
Is Easter actually a good time to buy a used car in Australia?
Yes and here’s why.
Easter comes around a genuine sweet spot on the Australian car-buying calendar. EOFY is around eight weeks away, which means sellers are already under pressure to move stock and hit targets. This means you will get the best pricing and offers as a buyer. Pricing is sorted; now you just need to find the right dealer.
The four-day weekend also gives you time and peace of mind to plan, which isn’t possible during the rest of the year. Time to research properly, compare listings across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, arrange inspections and make a considered decision rather than a rushed one.
Late March to mid-April consistently ranks among the strongest buying windows of the year in Australia, just behind EOFY in terms of deal availability and seller motivation. If you have been thinking about upgrading your car, Easter 2026 is a genuine opportunity to act.
What used cars are worth buying this Easter?
The Australian used car market is well-stocked across all categories, making it a good time to explore options. Here’s a breakdown of what you can check out:
- SUVs
The most popular vehicle type in Australia. The Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson offer practicality, strong safety ratings and solid resale value. Hard to go wrong for families or anyone wanting flexibility.
- Utes
The Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux dominate for a reason. If you need a work car or weekend trek, Easter is a good time to find a well-maintained second-hand ute at a competitive price.
- Hatchbacks and Sedans
If you are a city driver, a reliable used hatchback like the Hyundai i30 or Toyota Corolla is a good pick. They are cheap to run and easy to park.
- EVs and Hybrids
The second-hand EV market in Australia is the talk of the town in 2026. The Tesla Model 3, MG ZS EV and Hyundai Ioniq are great and popular options. If you are planning to switch to Hybrid during this fuel price hike, Easter is a smart time to explore your options and buy before demand spikes.
Easter car deal worth knowing
Cars24 Australia is running an Easter Sale on selected cars from 6th to 9th April 2026, and eligible buyers receive a flat $300 discount on purchases made on the platform website or app.
What makes it worth paying attention to beyond the savings is what Cars24 already offers. Every car undergoes a thorough inspection, pricing is transparent with no hidden fees, and delivery is available across Australia. The $300 off is on top of that, making it a great deal rather than a marketing gimmick.
Check out the terms and conditions on the Cars24 website for more information.
How to buy the best used car this Easter sale
Set your budget first
The sticker price is just the starting point. Don’t forget to factor in registration, insurance, stamp duty and any immediate servicing costs before you browse a listing. With Cars24, we handle the ownership transfer.
Inspect it properly
Check panel gaps for signs of accident repairs, look underneath for rust, and review the full service history. Under the bonnet, watch for oil leaks and signs of overheating. In case of a private dealer, get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic.
Always run a PPSR check
A PPSR check is a national replacement for the old REVS check. This tells you whether a car has outstanding finance, has been written off or has been stolen. With Cars24, you get a PPSR check report free of cost with your purchase.
Take a real test drive
Accelerate firmly, brake hard in a safe spot, drive at highway speed and test every piece of technology in the car. Explore your return options well in advance; for example, Cars24 offers a 30-day return guarantee.
Easter used car buying checklist
Here are a few pointers to help you:
- Full budget
- Car history check
- Review full service and logbook
- Inspect in person or book a mechanical check
- Test drive
- Compare prices
Conclusion
Easter 2026 is a legitimate opportunity to buy a high-quality used car in Australia at a fair price. Pre-EOFY seller motivation, four days to shop properly, and a $300 Easter discount from Cars24 make this weekend worth it.
Take your time to check, and don’t let deal excitement override good judgment, because not all cars come with a 30-day return guarantee like Cars24 cars.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Easter a good time to buy a used car in Australia?
Ans- Yes, Easter is a good time to buy a used car in Australia because it falls in the pre-EOFY period when sellers are ready to move stock.
- Are there used car deals running this Easter 2026?
Ans- Yes, Cars24 Australia is offering $300 off on selective used car purchases made between 6th and 9th April 2026. Visit Cars24 for further information.
- What should I check before buying a used car in Australia?
Run a PPSR check, review history, inspect the car in person, take a comprehensive test drive and compare prices.
- What are the best used cars to buy in Australia in 2026?
Ans- Top picks for buyers include the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Hyundai i30, and Tesla Model 3.
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