Best Time to Buy a Used Car in Canada: A Seasonal Guide
Best Time to Buy a Used Car in Canada: A Seasonal Guide
Posted on April 8, 2025
Buying a used car in North York can be exciting, however getting the best deal depends on timing. Prices fluctuate based on the season, dealership sales cycles, and market demand. Knowing when to shop can help you save money, access better financing options, and find the perfect vehicle. Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient sedan, a spacious SUV, or a rugged pickup, here’s a seasonal guide to the best times to buy a used car in Canada.
Why Timing Matters When Buying a Used Car
The thing is, used car prices aren't set in stone. Dealerships adjust pricing based on supply and demand, promotions, and how quickly they need to move inventory. Shopping at the right time can mean more selection, lower prices, and better negotiating power for you as the buyer
Best Seasons to Buy a Used Car
Winter: Year-End Savings & Less Competition
December and January can be one of the best times to buy a used car in North York. Dealerships are trying to clear out inventory before the new year, and there are often year-end promotions that lead to significant savings. Since fewer people shop for cars in winter, you’ll likely face less competition, giving you better negotiating power.
However, winter weather can make test driving and inspections more challenging. Be sure to check the vehicle history report and book a pre-purchase inspection to avoid hidden issues.
Spring: Fresh Trade-Ins & Increased Selection
As the weather warms up, many people start trading in their old vehicles for new models. This means dealerships including First Choice Motors in North York see an influx of used inventory, giving buyers more options.
While selection is great in spring, prices may be slightly higher since more buyers enter the market. If you’re looking for the best deal, keep an eye out for price drops on older inventory that hasn’t sold from the previous year.
Summer: Mid-Year Sales & Special Discounts
Summer is often one of the busiest seasons for car buying. People are preparing for road trips, and college students are also on the lookout for reliable transportation before the school year begins. The positive side for budget buyers is that some dealerships hold mid-year sales in July and August, which can be a great time to buy low.
If you’re shopping in the summer, focus on vehicles that have been sitting on the lot for a few months. Dealers are more likely to offer better discounts on older inventory to make space for fall trade-ins.
Fall: The Sweet Spot for Savings
Fall is one of the best times to buy a used car because dealerships are preparing for the next year’s models. September and October often bring clearance deals on both new and used vehicles, as well as manufacturer incentives that may apply to used cars sold at franchise dealerships.
During this time, many lease returns hit the market which means you can find well-maintained, low-mileage vehicles at competitive prices. If you're looking for a gently used certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle, fall is an excellent time to shop.
When NOT to Buy a Used Car
Give or take there is a window of opportunity in every season of the year to buy at best prices. That being said, there are a few times when buying a car may not be ideal. Tax refund season (March-April) sees a surge in buyers, which can lead to higher prices. Similarly, back-to-school season in August can make it harder to find deals on smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles. If you’re not in urgent need of a car, it’s worth waiting for a seasonal dip in demand to get the best price.
Where to Find the Best Used Car Deals in North York
If you’re in the market for affordable and reliable used cars in North York, Ontario, check out First Choice Motors. With a wide selection of vehicles and competitive pricing, they can help you find the perfect car for your needs.