Home > News & Blogs > Planning to Buy a Car Before July? Here’s What You Need to Know
Planning to Buy a Car Before July? Here’s What You Need to Know
Ultimate Car Buying Guide: How to Get the Best Deals
Buying a car is a major financial decision, and securing the best deal requires research, strategy, and timing. Whether you're looking for a brand-new model or a reliable used vehicle, this comprehensive guide from MotorVero will help you navigate the process with confidence. Below, we break down everything from financing options to negotiation tactics so you can drive away with the best possible deal.
Key Takeaways:
- Timing matters: End-of-month, holiday weekends, and year-end sales often offer the best incentives.
- New vs. used: Weigh depreciation costs against warranty benefits.
- Financing vs. leasing: Understand which option aligns with your budget and driving habits.
- Trade-in strategies: Maximize your old car’s value before stepping into a dealership.
1. Finding the Best Car Deals
Car incentives fluctuate throughout the year, but some of the best times to buy include:
- End of the month: Dealers push to meet sales quotas.
- Holiday weekends: Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day often feature special promotions.
- Year-end clearance: Dealers discount outgoing models to make room for new inventory.
Use MotorVero’s Price Comparison Tool to track real-time discounts and incentives.
Top Vehicles with the Best Incentives Right Now
While deals vary by region, these categories often have strong discounts:
- Sedans: As SUVs dominate, sedans often come with better incentives.
- Last year’s models: Dealers discount previous-year inventory to clear space.
- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): Offer warranty-backed reliability at lower prices.
- --TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
2. New vs. Used: Which Is Right for You?
Both options have pros and cons:
Buying New
- Pros: Latest features, full warranty, customization options.
- Cons: Higher depreciation (20-30% in the first year).
Buying Used
- Pros: Lower upfront cost, slower depreciation, certified options available.
- Cons: Limited warranty, potential hidden issues.
Tip: Always get a pre-purchase inspection for used cars, even CPOs.
3. How Much Car Can You Afford?
Follow the 20/4/10 rule as a guideline:
- 20% down payment to avoid negative equity.
- 4-year loan term to minimize interest.
- 10% of income on total car expenses (payment, insurance, fuel).
--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
4. Financing vs. Leasing vs. Paying Cash
Financing
Ideal if you:
- Plan to keep the car long-term.
- Want to build equity.
- Drive more than 12,000 miles/year.
Leasing
Consider leasing if you:
- Prefer lower monthly payments.
- Like driving newer models every few years.
- Stay under mileage limits.
Paying Cash
Best for those who:
- Want to avoid interest.
- Have sufficient savings.
- Plan to keep the car long enough to justify the cost.
-
5. Negotiating at the Dealership
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Focusing only on monthly payments (dealers can extend terms to lower payments while increasing total cost).
- Not securing pre-approved financing beforehand.
- Accepting add-ons like VIN etching or fabric protection without research.
Pro Tip: Negotiate the out-the-door price, not just the monthly payment.
--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
6. Should You Get an Extended Warranty?
Extended warranties can be worthwhile if:
- You’re buying a luxury or high-repair-cost vehicle.
- You plan to keep the car beyond the factory warranty.
- Peace of mind is a priority.
Skip if: You’re buying a reliable brand with a long factory warranty (e.g., Hyundai’s 10-year coverage).
7. Trading In or Selling Your Old Car
Maximize your trade-in value:
- Clean and detail the car.
- Gather maintenance records.
- Get quotes from multiple sources (dealers, CarMax, online buyers).
Selling privately? Follow these steps:
- Take high-quality photos in good lighting.
- Write a detailed description highlighting features and maintenance.
- Use secure payment methods and meet in public places.
--THIRD CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Final Checklist Before You Buy
- ✅ Test drive the car in various conditions.
- ✅ Review the vehicle history report (for used cars).
- ✅ Compare financing options (dealership vs. bank/credit union).
- ✅ Read the contract thoroughly before signing.
By following this guide, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision and secure the best possible deal on your next car. For personalized assistance, explore MotorVero’s tools and resources to simplify your car-buying journey.

motorverorachael
Last Updated On May, 30-2025