When it comes to buying a new car, timing can be everything. Not only can the right time of year save you money, but it can also provide access to a wider selection of vehicles. Whether you’re looking for the latest model or hoping to snag a deal on a used car, understanding the automotive sales cycle can give you a big advantage. Here’s a guide to help you pinpoint the best times to buy a new car in Ireland.
End of the Calendar Year
Summary: December is typically the cheapest month to buy a new car in Ireland due to year-end sales targets and outgoing registration plate discounts.
December is often touted as the best time to buy a new car. Dealerships are focused on clearing out inventory before the year ends to make space for new models and to meet annual sales targets. This rush to meet year-end goals can translate into substantial discounts and attractive financing options. You can expect competitive pricing and a willingness from dealers to negotiate to achieve their sales targets.
End of Each Quarter (March, June, September, and December)
Summary: Dealerships often offer stronger deals at the end of each quarter in Ireland as they aim to meet manufacturer sales targets and unlock bonuses.
If December doesn’t align with your schedule, consider the end of any quarter. March, June, September, and December can be great times to buy as dealerships again push to meet quarterly sales targets. During these months, you’re likely to see lots of promotions and incentives designed to boost the dealer’s sales figures.
Out With the Old
Summary: Buying just before a new model launch or facelift in Ireland can result in significant discounts on outgoing showroom stock.
The automotive industry typically rolls out new models between the end of summer and early autumn, making this period another great time to buy. As dealerships make room for new arrivals, prices on current-year models might be reduced significantly. This changeover period can vary depending on the made and model, so it’s wise to research when a new version of your preferred model is expected to be released.
Holiday Sales Events
Summary: Seasonal demand affects car prices in Ireland, with off-peak months often offering better value on specific vehicle types.
The demand for certain types of vehicles fluctuates with the seasons. For instance, convertibles are more popular in the spring and summer months. You might find better deals on these models in the autumn or winter. Whereas SUVs and 4x4s tend to be in higher demand as the weather turns colder, so consider purchasing these vehicles in the off-peak seasons for potentially lower prices.
Why The Final Days of the Month Can Unlock Better Deals
Summary: Purchasing a car at the end of the month in Ireland can improve your negotiating position as dealers work to hit monthly quotas.
While this strategy might not be as effective as those listed above, buying a car later in the month can still be beneficial. Salespeople who are behind on their monthly targets might be more receptive to giving you a better deal as they strive to meet personal and dealership quotas.
How Ireland’s 1 and 2 Registration Plates Affect Car Prices
Summary: Ireland’s January and July registration plate changes directly influence car pricing, with outgoing plates typically discounted before the new plate arrives.
In Ireland, new car registration plates change twice a year—in January and July. A lot of people prefer to buy a car with the latest registration plate, making these months particularly busy for dealerships. However, buying just before these changes can also be advantageous as dealers may offer discounts on cars with the outgoing plate to clear out inventory.
Off-Peak Times for Specific Models
Summary: Buying vehicles out of season in Ireland, such as convertibles in winter or SUVs in summer, can lead to lower prices due to reduced demand.
Consider the seasonality of certain types of cars. For example, convertibles are more in demand during spring and summer. You might find a better deal on one of these models in the off-season, like late fall or winter. Similarly, four-wheel-drive vehicles become more popular in autumn and winter due to their performance in poor weather conditions, so summer might be a quieter time to negotiate a good price.
Research Prices Before You Visit a Dealership
Summary: Comparing prices across Irish car marketplaces before visiting a dealership helps ensure you secure the most competitive deal available.
While these guidelines can help pinpoint the best times to buy a new car, the ideal moment also depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Keep abreast of local dealership promotions and national sales events that could impact pricing and availability.
Compare prices on platforms like Carzone.ie and DoneDeal.ie to benchmark similar models. This helps you identify whether a dealer’s offer is competitive before entering negotiations.
What Are Pre-Registered Cars and Why Are They Cheaper?
Summary: Pre-registered cars in Ireland are nearly new vehicles already registered by dealerships and are often sold at a discount to meet sales targets.
Pre-registered cars are brand-new vehicles that a dealership has already registered in its own name before selling them to a retail customer.
They are typically used by dealers to:
- Hit monthly, quarterly, or annual sales targets
- Qualify for manufacturer bonuses
- Boost reported sales figures before plate changes in January or July
Although the car may only have delivery mileage (often under 100 km), it is technically no longer classed as “brand new” because it already has a registered owner — the dealership.
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What is the cheapest month to buy a new car in Ireland?
December is generally the cheapest month to buy a new car in Ireland. Dealerships are under pressure to meet annual sales targets and clear outgoing stock before the January “1” registration plate arrives. This combination often leads to stronger discounts, additional incentives, and more flexibility in negotiations.
Late December, in particular, can offer excellent value as dealers work to close year-end deals.
Is June a good time to buy a car in Ireland?
Yes, June is one of the best times to buy a new car in Ireland. It marks the end of the first half of the year and comes just before the July “2” registration plate change. Dealers often discount cars with the outgoing “1” plate to make room for new arrivals.
Late June can be especially advantageous if dealerships are trying to hit mid-year sales targets.
Do car dealers give better deals at month end?
Often, yes. Many dealerships operate on monthly sales targets, and sales staff may have incentives tied to hitting those numbers. Buying in the final few days of the month can improve your negotiating position.
You may not always get a lower headline price, but you could secure added extras such as:
- Free servicing packages
- Trade-in bonuses
- Accessories or upgrades
The effect is even stronger at quarter end in March, June, September, and December.
Are pre-registered cars worth it?
Pre-registered cars can offer excellent value. These are brand-new vehicles registered by the dealership to hit sales targets. They usually have very low mileage but are technically second-owner vehicles.
They are often discounted because:
- The warranty may have already started
- They carry an earlier registration plate
- They cannot be sold as factory-ordered new
If you are less concerned about being the first registered owner, a pre-registered car can provide significant savings.
Does the new registration plate affect the price?
Yes, the registration plate cycle in Ireland directly affects car pricing. New plates are introduced in January and July. Cars with the latest plate generally command higher resale value, while vehicles with an outgoing plate are often discounted to clear stock.
For example:
- In December, dealers discount current-year cars before the January plate arrives.
- In June, cars with the “1” plate may be reduced ahead of the July “2” plate launch.
If resale value and plate year matter to you, timing your purchase around these changes can make a noticeable difference.