As year-end sales come to an end, 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, January can be just as rewarding for used car buyers. Here’s how you can stay in control of your used car deal in 2025.

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

After December’s car-buying spree, dealerships face a quieter market in January. This post-holiday slowdown gives buyers more room to negotiate, especially as dealerships work to meet their first monthly sales goals of the year. 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 December’s new car buyers means dealerships have more used cars to sell. With used car inventory levels rising in January, 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 Still Weeks Away
   The surge of tax refund car buying season typically begins in March. January buyers beat the rush, facing less competition and enjoying more room for negotiation.
3. Motivated Dealers
   Even in slower months, dealerships have monthly sales quotas to meet. This motivation often translates into better deals and increased willingness to negotiate with buyers ready to close.

Winter Weather Creates Buying Opportunities

Midwest and East Coast dealers are particularly impacted by winter weather in January. Snow and frigid temperatures unsurprisingly contribute to a slowdown in sales. 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, especially if you don’t mind putting in a bit of extra work to save on a used car.

Tips for Scoring Big Savings on a Used Car in 2025

While January 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. 

👉 FREE: Out-the-Door Price Calculator

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.

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, or get started with Concierge today!

Negotiate Used Car Prices With Confidence in January

For knowledgeable used car shoppers, January 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 7 FREE car buying cheat sheets (limited time offer)