Helping You Get the Best Discounts
If you’re in the market for a new vehicle but don’t want to pay top dollar, buying an unsold car might be the perfect way to save big. These vehicles are brand-new, but were never sold during their original model year. Because dealerships and manufacturers want to clear space for new inventory, these cars are often sold at deep discounts. With the right approach, you can drive off the lot in a new car for less than you’d expect. Below is a guide on how to find the best deals on unsold cars.
What Are Unsold Cars?
Unsold cars are vehicles that remain in a dealership’s inventory after the model year ends. When new models arrive, older ones take up valuable space on the lot. To make room, dealerships often reduce prices or offer incentives to move these vehicles quickly.
These cars are not used or damaged. They are vehicles that simply didn’t sell during their initial release period. Sometimes, it’s because the model didn’t get much marketing attention or newer features made the latest model more attractive. Other times, it’s just that the dealership may have ordered more of one trim or color than buyers wanted.
Who Should Consider Buying an Unsold Car?
Unsold cars are ideal for people who:
- Want a new car without the new price. Since unsold cars are brand new, they come with the same manufacturer warranty and reliability as the latest models.
- Don’t need the newest features. If you’re okay with missing out on the latest infotainment system or a slightly updated design, you can save thousands.
- Plan to keep the car for several years. Buying a discounted unsold car can be especially smart if you intend to drive it for the long haul.
How to Find the Best Deals on Unsold Cars
Here are several strategies to help you track down and secure the best deals.
1. Shop at the End of the Model Year
Dealerships usually begin receiving next year’s models in late summer and fall, which is when they’re most eager to sell older inventory. Visiting showrooms around August to October can help you find significant markdowns on last year’s models. Salespeople are often under pressure to clear space, and this is when they’re most flexible with pricing.
2. Look for “Leftover” or “Previous Model Year” Deals
Some manufacturers specifically advertise unsold cars as “leftover deals” or “previous model year specials.” You can often find these listed on car manufacturer websites under sections like “special offers” or “inventory clearance.”
3. Check Multiple Dealerships
Don’t limit yourself to one dealership. Some dealers have more unsold cars than others and may offer better incentives to clear them out. Expand your search radius by 50 to 100 miles, especially if you live near a major city where competition among dealers is high. You might find that a short drive can save you thousands of dollars.
4. Ask About Dealer Incentives and Manufacturer Rebates
Car manufacturers often provide rebates, financing deals or cash bonuses to dealerships that successfully move unsold cars. While these incentives are meant for the dealer, many pass the savings to customers. Ask the salesperson directly if there are any factory-to-dealer incentives that could apply to your purchase.
5. Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Options
If you can’t find the unsold model you want, consider looking at Certified Pre-Owned cars from the same year. These vehicles are lightly used (often former demo or loaner cars), thoroughly inspected and come with warranties similar to new ones, but at a lower cost. They can be a smart alternative if new-old stock is limited in your area.
6. Check Online Marketplaces and Auctions
Online car marketplaces like Carvana, Vroom and TrueCar sometimes list unsold or near-new cars at reduced prices. In addition, you can explore fleet auctions or government surplus auctions, which occasionally include unsold or minimally used vehicles at steep discounts. Just be sure to verify that the vehicle comes with a valid new car warranty before buying.
7. Negotiate
The biggest advantage of buying an unsold car is that you hold the leverage. The dealership wants the car gone and they know buyers are looking for value. Use that to your advantage. Research the car’s value on tools like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds before negotiating.
If the dealer won’t meet your target price, thank them and leave your contact information. They might call you back when they’re ready to deal.
8. Ask About Demo or Display Models
Dealerships sometimes use new vehicles as test-drive or showroom display models. These cars are technically “unsold”, but may have a few hundred miles on the odometer. Because of that, they’re often sold at an even steeper discount. They’re still eligible for full factory warranties and can be a fantastic deal for buyers who don’t mind a lightly used vehicle.
Unsold cars offer one of the best ways to get a brand-new vehicle at a used-car price. By understanding how dealerships operate and knowing where to look, you can score a new car at a significant discount and keep more money in your pocket while still enjoying that new car smell.