New
Used

What car are you interested in?

Don't worry, you can change your mind later on.

Sign Up Log in

Why February 2025 Is a Great Time to Buy a Used Car

Key Takeaways

  • February 2025 is a great time to negotiate savings on a used car.
  • Come March, tax refund shoppers will drive demand up, and negotiability downward.
  • Free tools empower used car buyers to negotiate with leverage unlike ever before.

Did you know that the shortest month of the year is actually a great time to negotiate a used car deal? This month, used car shoppers can seize upon a rare opportunity. While December was indeed the best time to drive home a deal on a new car, February can be just as rewarding for used car buyers. Here’s how you can negotiate serious savings on a used car in February 2025.

For Used Car Shoppers, February 2025 Is a Buyer’s Market

After December’s car-buying spree, dealerships face a quieter market in January and February. But simple math shows another reason for increased negotiability in the month ahead. February is the shortest month of the year, but that doesn’t change automaker and dealership sales goals. In February, sellers will be eager to ‘move the metal’ before this fleeting month slips by. This rushed month gives buyers leverage in used car negotiations.

But that’s not all—historical trends reveal some unique opportunities for used car shoppers this time of year.

  1. Rising Inventory
    The influx of trade-ins from last year’s new car buyers means dealerships have more used cars to sell in February. With used car inventory levels rising, many dealers are motivated to move these vehicles off the lot quickly. This is especially true for dealers still awaiting deliveries of 2025 models.
  2. Tax Refund Season Is Just Beginning
    The surge of tax refund car buying season typically begins in March. February buyers beat the rush, facing less competition and enjoying more room for negotiation.
  3. Motivated Dealers
    With only 28 days in February, dealerships have monthly sales quotas to meet. This motivation often translates into better deals and increased willingness to negotiate with buyers ready to close. However, don’t expect the best deals to fall into your lap—knowledge is certainly power in today’s market, with empowered buyers winning the best deals.

Winter Weather Creates Buying Opportunities

is February a good time to buy a used car?

Across the northern U.S., used car buyers have even more reason to shop confidently. When it’s cold and snowy, hardly anyone shops for cars. If you happen to be the one out on the lot when the dealership is hungry for business, you’re got the upper hand in negotiations from the start. The salesperson WANTS to make a deal happen, and will be willing to talk numbers.

CarEdge Co-Founder Ray Shefska can recall times when winter-inspired incentives bordered on nonsense, but to the benefit of the buyer!

There have been times where we received so much snow that we actually paid customers to help dig out their own car deal. That’s right, we encouraged the customers to pick out their car, dig it out of the snow and we saved them an extra $200 to $500 depending on the model. It was either that or we would have to hibernate until the spring thaw!!!

Keep an eye out for snow-filled car buying opportunities this February, especially if you don’t mind putting in a bit of extra work to save on a used car.

Tips for Scoring Savings on a Used Car in February 2025

While February 2025 offers great potential, it’s still important to approach car buying strategically. If you show your cards too soon, you could end up fighting headwinds as you negotiate. Use these tips to maximize your savings, minimize stress, and most importantly, stay focused on the numbers that matter.

1. Negotiate With Leverage

Don’t walk into negotiations unprepared. Use tools like CarEdge Insights to identify the most negotiable inventory at your local dealerships. Focus on cars that have been sitting on the lot for an extended period—these are often the ones dealerships are most eager to sell.

2. Keep Financing Details Private

There’s no need to show all your cards right away. Whether you’re paying cash, financing independently, or considering dealership financing, wait until the out-the-door price is fully negotiated and put in writing before discussing payment options. It’s also wise to understand the auto finance market in February. Right now, new car APRs average around 9% APR, but those with excellent credit may qualify for much lower rates. Used car loan rates remain painfully high and currently average 14% APR.

3. Don’t Focus on Monthly Payments

While it’s tempting to think in terms of monthly affordability, dealerships often use this to steer buyers into unfavorable terms. Always negotiate the out-the-door price, which includes taxes, fees, and all add-ons you agree to. Once the OTD is agreed on in writing, it’s time to talk about how you’ll pay.

👉 FREE: Out-the-Door Price Calculator

4. Insist on a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Even if the car looks and feels perfect, always get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic. Dealerships are incentivized to sell, and their assessment may not tell the whole story. Protect your wallet by ensuring you know exactly what you’re buying.

👉 Learn more about pre-purchase inspections for used cars

5. Let a Pro Negotiate for You

If the thought of haggling over prices and fighting unwanted add-ons sounds exhausting, consider letting an expert handle it for you. With CarEdge’s Car Buying Service, experienced professionals will take care of every detail—securing the best deal, maximizing your trade-in value, and eliminating bogus fees. 

💲💲💲See how much you can save with CarEdge Verified Deals!

Negotiate Used Car Prices With Confidence in February

February 2025 used car deals

For knowledgeable used car shoppers, February 2025 presents a golden opportunity. With rising inventory, less competition, and motivated dealerships, it’s the perfect time to find the right car at the right price. 

Don’t let car buying hassles hold you back. Visit CarEdge today to unlock the free tools, premium insights, and professional services to secure a deal you can be proud of.

👉 Download FREE car buying cheat sheets (limited time offer)

Save time and skip dealership!

Our concierge service can find any car for you.


Want to do it yourself?

Try Insights. Data and tools to help you research.


Last updated Jan 30, 2025

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *