If you’re thinking about selling your car, timing can make a real difference in how much money you get for it. Most people focus on mileage, condition, or features, but the time of year you sell can impact your offer just as much.
In this blog, we’ll highlight the best times of the year to sell your car and discuss how seasonal changes affect its value, so you can make a smart, well-timed decision.
How Timing Affects Car Value
Timing, among other things, can play a big role in how much money you walk away with. Here’s how:
- Supply and Demand – During high-demand seasons, more buyers are in the market, and that pushes up trade-in values. In slower months, fewer buyers may result in dealers offering less.
- Inventory Goals – Dealerships track monthly and quarterly goals. If they’re close to hitting a target, they might be more generous with offers.
- New Model Releases – When the latest models hit the showroom, older ones can drop in value quickly. Selling before those new releases can help you avoid the dip.
Dealers and car buying centers typically plan around these trends, adjusting their buying activity to match.
Best Seasons to Sell Your Car, Ranked
1. Spring – The Best Time to Sell a Car
Spring consistently has the highest demand across the board. Buyers often have tax refund money in hand, the weather starts improving, and those who delayed car shopping over winter get back in the market. For most vehicle types, especially daily drivers and fuel-efficient cars, this is the best season to sell a car.
2. Summer – Still Strong, Especially for Family Vehicles
Summer ranks second. Road trips, job relocations, and family events keep demand steady, especially for SUVs, minivans, and crossovers. It’s a good time to sell a vehicle, but competition increases as more sellers enter the market. Timing matters: early summer usually performs better than late summer.
3. Fall – Smart for Strategic Sellers
Fall is a quieter season, but that can work in your favor. Many buyers want a reliable car before the cold hits, and dealers are preparing for year-end inventory adjustments. If your car is in good shape and priced right, you could benefit from less market competition.
4. Winter – The Toughest Season Overall
Winter is the slowest time for car sales – unless you’re selling an AWD or 4WD vehicle. Snow and icy roads increase demand for those types, but sedans and smaller cars tend to move more slowly. If you’re not in a rush, it’s often better to wait for early spring.
See How Much Your Car Is Worth Today
Selling your car doesn’t have to be complicated. Get a fast, free offer from Ken Ganley Buying Center and see what your vehicle’s worth in today’s market. Call us at (330) 427-3656 or appraise your car online for a quick quote. In just a few easy steps, you could turn your car into cash without the stress or long wait time.
