This is often cited as the absolute worst time for used car buyers. As tax refunds hit bank accounts, dealerships experience a surge in foot traffic. Dealers often stop reducing prices in mid-January in anticipation of this demand, sometimes leading to price spikes of 30–40% on used inventory.
Research from iSeeCars identifies June as the worst month for used car deals, offering roughly 22.8% fewer discounts than the annual average. Warm weather and summer vacations create a "festive" buying environment where dealerships can maintain higher margins. worst time to buy a car
Salespeople are most motivated to hit their quotas at the end of the month or quarter. Buying in the first week of a new month often means facing a sales team that isn't yet under pressure to "move metal" to hit bonus targets. Market Dynamics in 2026 This is often cited as the absolute worst