The best time to buy a used car is in October and November, according to Edmunds sales data. This is because automakers seek to move inventory to make room for upcoming models, and end-of-year promotions often entice used-car buyers to spring for a new vehicle instead, easing demand for used vehicles and improving pricing for used-car buyers.
Understanding the Market
There are many factors that determine when it’s a good time to buy a used car, including lease returns, market conditions, and specific months when prices trend higher. Three-year-old used cars climbed to near-record prices in the first quarter of 2026, averaging $31,548. However, the used car market will benefit from a significant influx of inventory, as expiring lease vehicles are projected to rise by 25.7% in 2026, representing nearly half a million additional vehicles hitting dealership lots compared to last year.
Assuming seasonal trends remain the same for the rest of 2026, the best time to buy a used car will continue to be in October and November. Edmunds analysts expect roughly 400,000 more lease returns in 2027 than in 2026, so this trend of rising off-lease inventory should continue into next year.
Preparing for a Purchase
While mid-to-late fall is the best time to buy a used car, not everyone can wait until then. To make the most of your purchase, it’s essential to prepare. Get an early start on things while your current vehicle is still in working order, and you have time to browse inventory. Start browsing used car listings now, and if you see something you like, you may need to move quickly so that someone else doesn’t buy the car you want.
Get your current car appraised to determine its trade-in value. One silver lining in the current market is that your car could be worth more than usual, as good used cars remain in high demand. Don’t wait to buy your next used car until your current vehicle is hanging on by a thread — or totally busted. Doing so can add an element of urgency to the buying process that tends to favor the seller.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
