Sometimes the universe decides when it’s time to get a new vehicle — like if your lease ends, or if your current vehicle malfunctions in such a way it’s more worthwhile to invest in a new one than it is to repair it. In cases like these, you can’t always afford to wait for the ideal time to get a new one.
Ideally, though, you’ll be able to somewhat plan when you will get a new vehicle. If you have your eyes on a shiny new Jeep, you’re probably wondering: When is the best time to buy or lease a Jeep? The goal is, of course, to get the SUV of your dreams at the best price point possible, whether you decide to lease it or buy it.
Let’s explore when the most advantageous time to get behind the wheel of a Jeep is and why.
Take Advantage of Year-End Incentives
Striking when dealers are offering incentives can end up saving you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
This is exactly why experts recommend waiting until the end of the year when dealers are trying to clear out the “old” inventory so they can make room for the newest model years. During the months of October, November and December, it’s often possible to get a current model-year Jeep for less. Pro tip: This is especially true for models that are getting a major refresh for the next model year, as dealers will be extra eager to clear out their current stock to make room.
Another reason to consider waiting for year-end if you’re able to is because car dealerships, just like every other retailer in America, tends to run holiday sales. Although many people think of Black Friday as a day to score deals on products like electronics and home appliances, many car dealerships also offer discounts on this day — or perhaps even throughout the entire week.
It pays to check out Jeep incentives throughout the entire year, but expect more opportunities to save during the final months of every calendar year for these reasons.
How Is the COVID-19 Pandemic Affecting Auto Prices?
The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching economic consequences over the past years — and its effects might turn up in places you don’t expect. What does COVID-19 have to do with buying or leasing a new Jeep?
As one expert wrote for Consumer Reports in 2021, pandemic-related parts shortages may soon cause shortages in the number of new cars available. Automakers are having a harder time getting parts, like computer chips and rubber, needed to manufacture vehicles. The result for shoppers at home? It may be more difficult to find the exact vehicle you want and to get new deals because of this potential squeeze on inventories everywhere.
This means drivers wanting or needing a Jeep soon can benefit from doing their vehicle research, shopping their local dealerships online and arranging financing rather than waiting — because shortages may continue to get worse over the coming months.
The good news is that if you’re not able to wait until the end of the year, automakers and dealerships are frequently offering incentives to get buyers in the door. Know which Jeep model(s) you’re interested in ahead of time, before even stepping onto the dealers’ lots. Calculate exactly what your budget can handle and figure out the smartest way to pay for your SUV, whether it be buying or leasing.
With all this information in hand, you’ll be ready to move quickly and confidently next time it becomes possible to get the new Jeep you want at the best possible price.