If you’re in the market for a second-hand vehicle, timing is everything. Knowing the best time to buy a used car in Australia can mean the difference between paying full sticker price and driving away with a bargain. With demand, supply, and seasonal factors all influencing prices, let’s break down when buyers get the best deals.
The Best Times of Year to Buy a Used Car in Australia (2025)
Buying a used car is one of the biggest purchases Australians make—and timing can save you thousands. Whether you’re eyeing a fuel-efficient hatchback or a second-hand SUV, here are the best times to buy in 2025 based on market trends, plate cycles, and seller behavior.
1. End of Financial Year (June)
June is widely regarded as the best month to buy a used car in Australia.
- Dealers clear out stock before EOFY tax reporting.
- Trade-in vehicles flood the market as owners upgrade.
- Discounts and promotional offers are more aggressive.
Why it matters: With more inventory and urgency from sellers, buyers get stronger bargaining power.
2. End of Calendar Year (December)
December is another window where buyers can score significant savings.
- Dealers aim to hit annual sales targets before year-end.
- Private sellers often discount vehicles to generate cash for the holidays.
- Fewer buyers means less competition, leading to better deals.
Why it matters: You can negotiate harder and find discounted stock that hasn’t sold throughout the year.
3. Start of the Year (January to February)
After Christmas, households often reduce expenses or reassess assets—used cars included.
- A surge in private listings creates more options.
- Many sellers are motivated, creating better negotiation opportunities.
- Dealerships offload last year’s models with reduced pricing.
Why it matters: Post-holiday sales can mean significant savings, especially if you’re flexible on year and plate.
4. Plate Change Period (January)
January marks the arrival of new registration plates, making older plates instantly feel outdated.
- A car manufactured in late 2024 with a 2024 plate may be discounted compared to a near-identical 2025 model.
- This psychological depreciation can save you thousands on lightly used cars.
Why it matters: Smart buyers use plate changes to their advantage, especially for nearly new cars.
Seasonal Trends in Used Car Prices
Winter (June–August)
- Fewer buyers browse during colder months.
- Sellers may accept lower offers due to sluggish demand.
- EOFY sales overlap with winter, enhancing your chances of a good deal.
Summer (December–February)
- Demand spikes for SUVs and utes due to holiday travel.
- Compact cars and sedans may be discounted as they’re less in demand.
Factors Impacting Used Car Prices
1. Supply and Demand Fluctuations
- From 2021 to 2023, stock was low due to supply chain issues.
- In 2025, rising fleet sales and trade-ins are normalising inventory, softening prices.
2. Interest Rate Pressure
- High interest rates make financing more expensive, reducing buyer activity.
- Cash buyers gain negotiation leverage in a tighter credit market.
3. Shift to EVs and Hybrids
- As EV adoption grows, some petrol and diesel vehicles are depreciating faster.
- This shift creates more affordable options for those sticking with combustion engines.
How to Get the Best Deal
Research Before Shopping
Use car marketplace data to understand price benchmarks and avoid overpaying.
Negotiate Aggressively
Private sellers especially expect low offers during quiet seasons.
Compare Multiple Sources
Check dealerships, private sellers, and auction platforms to broaden your options.
Time Your Purchase Right
Align your shopping with June, December, or early in the year to maximise savings.
Conclusion
The best time to buy a used car in Australia isn’t random—it’s seasonal and strategic.
EOFY (June) offers the strongest combination of selection and price cuts. December and January–February also provide great windows for negotiation thanks to dealer urgency and post-holiday listings.
With supply up and EV shifts reshaping depreciation trends, 2025 is shaping up as a buyer’s market. Patience, research, and timing are the key tools for landing your ideal vehicle at a discount.
FAQs
1. Is EOFY really the best time to buy a used car?
Yes, June has the most consistent price drops due to tax-season pressure on dealers.
2. Are used car prices going down in 2025?
Yes, supply is increasing compared to 2021–2023, creating more competitive pricing.
3. Should I buy from a dealer or a private seller?
Dealers offer warranties and protections, while private sellers typically offer lower prices.
4. Do used cars become cheaper at year-end?
Yes, December is one of the best times to find deals as sellers aim to close out the year strong.
5. Is winter a good time to shop for cars?
Yes. With fewer buyers in the market, your negotiating power increases.
* The information is not intended to be and does not constitute financial advice or any other recommendation of any sort offered or endorsed by Gate.
