Best Time to Buy a Used Car in Australia: How to Time Your Purchase for Maximum Savings

Buying a used car can save you thousands—if you time it right. While pricing is affected by many factors, including supply, demand, dealer incentives, and model release cycles, there are periods in the year when you're more likely to score a great deal. This guide outlines how Aussies can use seasonal patterns and dealer behavior to their advantage.

Why Timing Matters When Buying a Used Car

Dealer Inventory Cycles

Dealerships tend to receive trade-ins when new models are released—often in March and October, aligning with new registration plate issues. That leads to higher stock levels and more price flexibility.

Sales Targets and Incentives

Dealers work to monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets. The end of the financial year (EOFY) in June is especially important for dealerships looking to clear stock and meet quotas.

Seasonal Buying Trends

Car shopping in spring and early summer (October–December) can drive up demand and prices. Winter (June–August), by contrast, often sees fewer buyers, giving you more room to negotiate.

Public Holidays and Events

Events like EOFY sales (June), Boxing Day, and even Australia Day (26 Jan) are often used by dealerships to promote deals and clear ageing stock.

Best Months to Look for Deals in Australia

June (End of Financial Year Sales)

EOFY is arguably the best time to buy a used car in Australia. Dealers are eager to clear stock, and buyers benefit from reduced competition and strong discounts.

December & January

Dealerships are clearing inventory before the new plate release in January, and are often more flexible during the quiet holiday period. Fewer buyers on the lot = more negotiating power for you.

February & March

As new models arrive and the latest rego plates are issued, trade-ins increase, improving the used car supply. It's also just before the Easter demand uptick.

Worst Time to Buy a Used Car

October to Early December

With warmer weather and school holidays around the corner, many buyers hit the market. Increased demand means less negotiation room and higher prices.

April Holidays (Easter/ANZAC)

Holiday bonuses and time off encourage people to shop, leading to more competition for available stock.

Best Days and Weeks to Shop

End of the Month or Quarter

Salespeople are motivated to hit quotas. Months ending March, June, September, and December are especially promising.

Mid-Week (Tuesday to Thursday)

Dealerships are quieter during the week, giving you more attention and time to inspect cars properly.

Public Holiday Sales Events

Look out for deals during Boxing Day, EOFY, Australia Day, and Labor Day weekends (dates vary by state).

Local and Seasonal Considerations

• Vehicle Type Seasonality

• Convertibles and sports cars are cheaper in winter when demand is lower.

• 4WDs and SUVs may be more expensive ahead of camping season or holidays.

• Utes and work vehicles tend to move faster around trade-heavy periods (start of the year, after tax returns, etc).

• Rego and Plate Release Impact

New plate issues in January and July (in some states) increase trade-ins, boosting the used car pool.

Smart Buyer Tips: How to Maximize Your Savings

Start Your Research Early

Begin comparing prices 1–2 months before your target purchase. Use tools like carsales.com.au, Drive, or RedBook to benchmark values.

Secure Financing Before You Shop

Getting pre-approved from a lender or credit union improves your negotiating power and ensures you’re not reliant on dealer finance rates.

Always Inspect and Check History

Use services like PPSR (Personal Property Securities Register) and request service records. If buying privately, get a mechanic to inspect the car.

Compare Dealer vs Private Sales

Private sales may offer better prices, but dealers provide warranties, CTP, and easier trade-ins. Certified pre-owned vehicles also come with added assurances.

Negotiate Confidently, Not Desperately

Don’t show urgency. Walk away if needed. Visiting toward the end of the month or a sale weekend strengthens your leverage.

Aim for the 3–4 Year Sweet Spot

Vehicles around 3–4 years old typically have balanced depreciation, modern features, and remaining warranty coverage—making them a solid value.

Sample Timeline: Planning a Used Car Purchase

Time Period	Action	Why It Matters
October–November	Research models, shortlist cars	Prepares you ahead of peak discount season
Late November	Inspect vehicles, monitor prices	Early stock clearances may begin
Early–Mid December	Visit dealerships, test drive	Quieter period, better access to stock
Late December	Negotiate at Boxing Day sales	High dealer motivation, low buyer presence
January	Finalize purchase (Australia Day)	New plates released, older stock discounted
June	EOFY mega sales	Best dealer pricing of the year

Why Winter and Year-End Are Prime Buying Times

• Less competition at dealerships = more attention and flexibility.

• Dealers under pressure to clear out old stock before EOFY or new plates.

• Higher trade-in volumes, especially post-March and September new car launches.

• Seasonal discounts tied to holidays and stock takes.

• Cold months = lower prices, especially for non-winter-friendly vehicles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Buying in peak season (spring/summer)

   You’ll pay more for less selection.

   
   

2. Giving in to early pressure

   Hold out for EOFY or post-Christmas if possible.

   
   

3. Skipping a professional inspection

   Avoid surprise costs from hidden mechanical issues.

   
   

4. Overlooking total costs

   Factor in insurance, fuel, rego, and maintenance—not just the sticker price.

   
   

Final Checklist for Aussie Buyers

• Research your preferred models early

• Get pre-approved for a car loan

• Target purchase window: Late Dec – Jan or June (EOFY)

• Check PPSR and get a full inspection

• Shop multiple sellers—private, dealer, CPO

• Negotiate late in the month or around a public holiday

• Be ready to walk away if the deal isn’t right

Wrapping Up: When’s the Best Time to Buy a Used Car in Australia?

The data and market trends are clear: June (EOFY) and December–January are your best bets for used car bargains in Australia. Combine this timing with strong preparation—know your budget, understand the market, and negotiate confidently—and you’ll be well positioned to secure great value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What's the best time to buy a used car in Australia?

June (EOFY) and late December to January are typically the best times to buy due to lower competition and dealer incentives.

2. Are used car prices negotiable in Australia?

Absolutely. Dealers and private sellers often expect negotiation. Don’t hesitate to make a reasonable counteroffer.

3. Should I buy from a dealer or privately?

Both have pros and cons. Dealers offer warranties and paperwork handling. Private sales can be cheaper but require more due diligence.

4. Do dealerships run used car promotions during holidays?

Yes. EOFY, Boxing Day, and Australia Day often come with strong deals.

5. How do I check if a used car is stolen or under finance?

Use the PPSR check (https://www.ppsr.gov.au/) to ensure the vehicle isn’t encumbered or written off.

6. Can I get finance for a used car?

Yes. Compare personal loans, secured car loans, and dealership finance. Rates vary based on credit and vehicle age.

7. Should I wait for new plate releases before buying?

Yes, new plate periods (Jan and July in some states) bring more trade-ins, increasing choice and bargaining power.

8. Is winter better for used car prices?

Generally, yes. Fewer buyers and seasonal stock clearance mean better opportunities, especially for non-4WD vehicles.