Finding the right car at the right price can be a long and difficult process. If you think you may need a new car any time soon, it’s best to start making plans early – especially if you want the best deal!

Here are some of the best times to buy your new vehicle:

• At the end of the month or the end of each quarter (March, June, September and December). Often, sales representatives have monthly or quarterly sales goals to meet. If they’re behind on their sales target, they may be more open to negotiating a better deal when they’re up against a deadline.
  
• On Mondays. Most people shop for cars during the weekend, so the lot can be pretty dead on Mondays. That means you can take your time, test drive several models, and the sales representative will have plenty of time to negotiate the price that you want.
  
• During a holiday or year-end sales event. Many dealerships offer special leasing and financing deals over the holidays – especially on three-day weekends, like Labor Day, Presidents’ Day and Memorial Day.
  
• When a new model of the car you’re looking for is released. It’s just like what happens with your smartphone – once a new model comes out, the old models typically decrease in price as the sales staff tries to unload the old to make way for the new. Be aware of which cars are being discontinued or redesigned so that you can swoop in to get a good deal on the previous model.