What is the Slowest Month for Selling Cars?

Selling your car can bring up a whole bunch of questions, especially when it comes to timing. Not every month is created equal in the car market, and some periods could see your car lingering longer on the listing sites or fetching a lower price than you’d hoped for.

So, before you polish up the old ride for its photo shoot, let’s take a look at the calendar to pinpoint the slowest month for selling cars and set you up for a successful sale, no matter the season.

Key Takeaways

• The Slowest Sales Period: The Winter Woes
• How Do Seasons Affect Car Sales?
• Timing with Plate Changes and School Holidays
• Selling Smart, Regardless of the Season

The Slowest Sales Period: The Winter Woes

December: The Holiday Hurdle

December is notoriously challenging for car sellers. It’s the season of holiday cheer, where budgets are primarily allocated to gifts and festivities. The winter chill doesn’t help either, making test drives less appealing.

With potential buyers more focused on holiday shopping than browsing car listings and dealerships, knowing that many are just looking around, getting a competitive offer for your car can be tougher.

January: The Post-Holiday Hangover

Then comes January, with its own set of challenges. After the holiday spending spree, many are left tightening their belts, paying off credit card bills, and postponing major purchases like cars. Additionally, the allure of brand-new models released at the beginning of the year can overshadow the appeal of used cars, making it a slow period for sellers.

How Do Seasons Affect Car Sales?

Summer: Sunnier Sales Prospects

The summer months breathe life into the car market. Warmer weather and longer days encourage more people to start the search for their next vehicle, creating a bustling market. This surge in buyer activity can lead to competitive offers, potentially boosting the sale price of your vehicle. Summer could be your prime time if you’re aiming for a quick sale and a good return.

Winter: The Cold Spell on Car Sales

Contrastingly, winter sees a dip in buyer interest. Colder weather and Christmas spending discourage car shopping, impacting demand and potentially lowering the sale price of your vehicle. However, remember, a well-maintained car priced right can attract buyers year-round, regardless of seasonal trends.

Timing with Plate Changes and School Holidays

Plate Changes: March and September Surges

The automotive industry sees spikes in interest around March and September due to plate changes, marking these months as a great time to sell but not a great time to buy a second-hand car.

School Holidays: A Double-Edged Sword

While summer might seem ideal for family vehicle sales, the hustle of managing holidays, childcare, and activities can put car shopping on the back burner for many families, slightly dampening demand. However, as routines normalise after the summer break, September often sees a rebound in second-hand car shopping.

Selling Smart, Regardless of the Season

Looking to sell your car online but dreading the slow season’s impact? That’s where we come in. At BigWantsYourCar.com, we’re dedicated to making your car-selling journey as seamless and rewarding as possible, any time of the year.

Our expert team is here to offer fair, competitive car valuations and handle the heavy lifting, from paperwork to final sale, ensuring you can sell your car with confidence and convenience. Ready to turn your car into cash hassle-free? Reach out to us, and let’s get started on making your car-selling experience a breeze, regardless of the season.