Best Time To Buy Leftover Cars May 2026

The primary driver behind leftover discounts is the dealer’s need to manage "floorplan" costs. Dealerships typically pay interest on every car sitting on their lot. As a model ages and the new version arrives, that car becomes a liability. Consequently, the most reliable time to strike is during the . Most manufacturers transition their production lines during this period, meaning the "new" models begin hitting showroom floors in August or September. When space becomes a premium, dealers are highly motivated to slash prices on outgoing models to clear the way for incoming stock.

In conclusion, buying a leftover car is a game of patience and timing. By aligning your purchase with the or the December year-end push , you capitalize on the dealer's urgency. While your choices may be limited to what is left on the lot, the thousands of dollars saved in depreciation and interest make the "old" new car one of the smartest financial moves a driver can make. best time to buy leftover cars

The quest for a "leftover" car—a brand-new vehicle from the previous model year still sitting on the dealer’s lot—is a classic strategy for savvy car shoppers. Timing is the most critical variable in this equation. While buying a leftover model requires compromising on the latest tech or color options, the financial rewards are significant. To maximize savings, buyers should focus on three specific windows: the end of the month, the arrival of new inventory, and the final weeks of the calendar year. The primary driver behind leftover discounts is the

However, the undisputed "golden window" for leftover cars is . The combination of year-end sales goals and the looming tax year creates a perfect storm for buyers. Manufacturers typically roll out their most aggressive "Sign and Drive" events or 0% APR financing offers during this time to flush out the remaining previous-year inventory. Visiting a dealership on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, when foot traffic is low and pressure to close the year is high, can result in the deepest discounts possible. Consequently, the most reliable time to strike is during the

On a more granular level, the and the end of the quarter are prime opportunities. Sales managers often have monthly quotas to hit to earn manufacturer bonuses. If a dealership is just a few sales short of a major incentive tier at the end of March, June, or September, they are often willing to sell a leftover car at or below their own cost just to get the unit off the books.