Skip the New Car : Experts Give 5 Examples of When To Buy Used
Skip the New Car : Experts Give 5 Examples of When To Buy Used
Laura BeckSat, May 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM UTC
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While new car smell can be intoxicating, saving money can be even more appealing to your sense of financial wellness.
We spoke with car experts to find out when it's a wiser decision to put your money on a used vehicle. Below are five times you should seriously consider buying used, with a focus on keeping your wallet happy.
Explore More: 6 New Cars in 2026 That Aren't Worth the Cost
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1. When New‑Car Depreciation Will Hurt Too Much
Though new cars mean no dings, no mystery stains and no worrying about what the previous owner did in the back seat, here's the kicker: The second you drive that shiny new car off the lot, it loses value faster than an ice cream cone on a hot summer day.
"Day one, it will lose thousands of dollars," said Chris Pyle, a JustAnswer auto expert. "When buying a used car, you are wiping out that value loss to some degree."
Think about it. Would you buy a brand-new iPhone, use it for a day, then sell it as "slightly used" for the same price? Of course not. Cars work the same way, but typically with more zeros involved.
2. When a Seller Is Desperate for Fast Cash
We've all been there -- life throws you a curveball and suddenly, you need money fast. Well, one person's emergency can be another's opportunity.
Evaldas Zabitis, an automotive expert at carVertical, suggested looking for keywords like "need money," "fast" or "quick" in online marketplaces.
"People who sell their cars for quick money can offer great deals," Zabitis said. "They typically need money for a trip, house repairs or other unexpected expenses."
Just remember, no matter how good the deal looks, always get the car checked out by a pro. A cheap lemon is still a lemon, and it'll leave a sour taste in your mouth (and your bank account).
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3. When No One Else Is Buying
Ever notice how gym memberships skyrocket in January, but then not so much by February? Car demand works similarly, but on a bigger scale. Zabitis pointed out certain types of cars become less popular depending on the season.
"Convertibles tend to rise in value before summer, while off-road trucks are in the highest demand after the first snow of the season," he explained. "In short, buy a car when others don't need it."
So, if you're eyeing that sweet convertible, maybe wait until the leaves start falling to make your move. Your wallet will thank you.
4. When Dealers Are Racing To Sell
Remember in school when you'd cram all your studying in the night before the big test? Car salespeople have their own version of this. Of course, instead of grades, they're after a big commission.
"Salespeople in dealerships have goals to meet at the end of each month, quarter and year," Zabitis said. "They typically want to close as many deals as possible before a specific period ends to receive a bigger bonus."
This desperation can lead to bigger discounts and better negotiating opportunities. "Their most important goal is at the end of the year, making December the best month to buy a used car from a dealership, especially before the holidays," he added.
While everyone else is fighting over the last hot toy of the season, you could be driving home in a bargain set of wheels.
5. When a New Model Wipes Out the Price
You know how your phone suddenly feels ancient the day after the new model drops? Cars are no different. Every time a new model rolls out, the older ones take a value hit.
"To avoid huge losses, car dealerships often offer great discounts weeks before a new model hits the market," said Zabitis. "However, if these discounts don't satisfy you, the prices may be even lower after the new model's release."
Like waiting for that designer outfit to hit the clearance rack -- patience pays off.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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Source: “AOL Money”
