Cyber Monday Car Shopping Tips and Advice
Get the best Cyber Monday car deals by prepping with these expert tips on financing, research, and timing.
Cyber Monday, once known for discounts on tech gadgets, has become a prime opportunity for large purchases, including cars. This shift allows savvy buyers to take advantage of significant savings on new and used vehicles.
Many dealerships and automakers join the excitement by offering special, time-limited incentives, such as cash-back offers, low financing rates, and exclusive online discounts.
However, while Cyber Monday car deals are enticing, navigating them can be challenging. The abundance of options, combined with the pressure of a one-day sale, can make it easy to miss out on the best deal or overlook hidden fees and fine print.
To make the most of Cyber Monday car shopping, it’s essential to approach it strategically. Knowing how to research the best deals, prepare your finances, and spot genuine discounts are all crucial steps that can lead to a great purchase.
With these tips and a clear plan, you’ll be ready to take advantage of Cyber Monday’s deals and secure the car you want at a price you’ll feel good about for years.
November Is Not a Good Month for Dealerships
As November rolls in, the days get shorter, the weather cools down, and most people are preoccupied with Thanksgiving and holiday plans—not buying a new car.
This seasonal lull typically means slow business for car dealerships, making it one of the most challenging months of the year for sales teams. But as Thanksgiving approaches, shoppers begin eyeing big-ticket purchases they’ve been putting off for months, like cars, TVs, and laptops. Dealerships know this shift is coming and eagerly prepare for it.
Following Black Friday, Cyber Monday has become a key event for car dealers, who pull out all the stops with online banners, ads, and special offers to catch your attention. From local ads to targeted web deals, dealerships are highly motivated to turn November’s quiet start into a sales success. This puts you in a solid position to capitalize on their discounts, especially with the right Cyber Monday car shopping tips.
Cyber Monday Car Buying Tip: Are you looking for a fair deal on a new or used car? Many pay above retail, but by requesting free dealer price quotes, you can quickly compare local offers and find the best Cyber Monday savings.
How to Get the Best Car Deals on Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday car buying tips revolve around preparation, timing, and knowing where to find the deals. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you confidently and successfully navigate Cyber Monday car sales.
1. Research Car Models and Prices Before Cyber Monday
Research well in advance is one of the most critical steps in getting a great deal on Cyber Monday. Knowing what models and features you want lets you compare prices accurately on the day of the sale. Car deals can differ significantly based on brand, model, and dealer incentives, so tracking your preferred choices beforehand is wise.
Steps to Research Effectively
- Identify preferred models: List a few makes and models that fit your needs. Think about space, fuel economy, features, and style.
- Check online listings: Reputable websites like RydeShopper, Edmunds, and CarsDirect offer insights on current prices.
- Visit local dealerships or brand websites: Many brands will release hints or details of their Cyber Monday specials early.
2. Secure Financing Ahead of Time
Having financing in place before Cyber Monday allows you to act quickly on the deals you find. Pre-approved car loans from online lenders often offer better rates than dealerships, banks, and credit unions, and having a set budget also helps you avoid overspending.
Financing Options to Consider
- Bank or credit union loans may offer lower interest rates than dealership financing.
- Online auto lenders: Some online lenders provide competitive rates, especially if you have a good credit score.
- Dealership pre-approval: While this can be convenient, compare dealership offers with your pre-approved rate to ensure it’s competitive.
3. Look for Online-Only Cyber Monday Car Deals
Cyber Monday is primarily an online shopping event, and car dealerships are increasingly joining the trend. Many car brands and dealerships offer online-only discounts, exclusive rebates, or lower interest rates for buyers who purchase through their websites.
Where to Find Online Cyber Monday Car Deals
- Dealership websites: Many dealers have dedicated Cyber Monday pages that post deals that are exclusively available online.
- Manufacturer sites: Brands like Ford, Toyota, and Chevrolet sometimes promote Cyber Monday sales directly.
- Third-party sites: Platforms like RydeShopper and Edmunds aggregate Cyber Monday deals from multiple dealerships, making comparing easy.
Recommended New Car Shopping Sites
Ryde Shopper has one of the largest dealer networks in the nation. Just choose the make and model you want, and they'll quickly find the best local clearance prices for you. To get the most discounts and savings, make sure to select several dealers to compare.
Edmunds is one of the internet's most seasoned and premier destinations for new car research and reviews. With their extensive network of dealers, you can browse, research, and juxtapose millions of new vehicles, ensuring you discover the precise car you aim to purchase.
MotorTrend remains an underrated gem online. While it's primarily recognized for its car magazine, its recommendation service comes at no cost and with no buying commitment. Simply choose your desired vehicle, opt for local dealers, and get access to discounted rates.
Cars Direct has been a leader in online vehicle research since 1998 and is equipped with the perfect tools to help you identify your next car, truck, or SUV. They ensure a smooth journey from customizing your preferred vehicle to finalizing the purchase, allowing you to find your next ride quickly and effortlessly.
4. Negotiate for Extra Perks or Add-Ons
Though Cyber Monday prices are often set, there’s room for negotiation on accessories or services. Dealers may be open to including perks like free maintenance, warranty extensions, or discounted accessories as part of the deal. Always ask about additional incentives—they’re often available, even if they aren’t advertised.
What to Request
- Free maintenance: Ask for complimentary maintenance for the first year.
- Extended warranties: Dealers may add auto warranties to close a sale at little to no cost.
- Accessories: Things like floor mats, cargo covers, or roof racks could be added for free.
5. Don’t Rush – Verify the Details of the Deal
Cyber Monday’s fast pace can lead to rushed decisions, but it’s essential to read all the details before committing. Confirm the exact terms, such as financing rates, down payments, and hidden fees.
Double-Check These Points
- Final price and fees: Ensure the advertised price includes all fees and taxes.
- Interest rate and loan terms: Verify the APR and loan period if financing through the dealer.
- Return policies: Some dealerships allow returns or exchanges within a short time frame.
Cyber Monday Car Buying Pro Tips
Here are five tips to help you find the best car at the best price.
- The price listed at the dealership is generally higher than the dealer’s actual cost, often below the factory invoice price.
- Knowing the dealer’s cost gives you an advantage in negotiations; always negotiate up from the dealer’s cost, not down from MSRP.
- Use free online tools to compare local vehicle prices and determine what others pay.
- For additional tips, check out my reviews of top online car shopping sites, including RydeShopper, Edmunds, MotorTrend, and CarsDirect.
- How to Buy a New Car Below Factory Invoice Price – True dealer cost and the factory invoice price are not the same… dealer cost can be much lower.
- Figure a Fair Profit New Car Offer – How to calculate a fair profit new car offer.
- How to Buy a New Car Online – Not sure where to start? Use my step-by-step guide on how to buy a new car online.
Benefits of Buying a Car on Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday provides significant advantages for buyers. With so many promotions, finding a car at a lower price is often easier than at other times of the year.
1. Increased Inventory Choices and Model Availability
With dealerships aiming to clear out year-end inventory, Cyber Monday often brings a broader selection of models and trims, giving buyers more options to find a vehicle that fits their needs and preferences at a discounted price.
2. Convenient Online Shopping Experience
Cyber Monday’s focus on online shopping lets you browse, compare, and even purchase a car from the comfort of your home or mobile device. Many dealers offer virtual showrooms, making it easy to explore features, view financing options, and secure deals without stepping into a dealership.
3. Lower Prices and More Incentives
Cyber Monday promotions typically include lower starting prices and added incentives such as rebates or 0% financing offers. Many dealerships reduce prices to boost year-end sales, allowing you to save on both new and used cars.
4. Access to Limited-Time Offers and Exclusive Rebates
Exclusive deals on Cyber Monday often include rebates, special financing terms, or cash-back offers. These limited-time promotions are usually available only online, so checking the right websites on Cyber Monday is essential for snagging these unique savings.
5. Additional Dealer Incentives for Online Buyers
To drive online sales, some dealerships offer extra incentives for online Cyber Monday purchases, such as free delivery, service packages, or bonus accessories. These incentives give customers added value beyond the discounted price.
More Best Times To Buy a Car
Other times of the year that are a great time to buy a car include:
- Black Friday
- Fourth of July
- Labor Day (Weekend)
- Memorial Day (Weekend)
- Tax Season
Dealers tend to make big deals and hold huge sales events during these times.
FAQs
Is it safe to buy a car online on Cyber Monday?
Yes, as long as you buy from reputable dealerships or brands. If you’re unfamiliar with the seller, be sure to verify all terms and read reviews.
Is it better to buy a new or used car on Cyber Monday?
Both new and used cars come with Cyber Monday discounts, so it depends on your budget. New vehicles may have financing deals, while used cars often feature bigger upfront discounts.
Can I negotiate the price further on Cyber Monday?
While the advertised prices may seem firm, you can still negotiate for perks like extended warranties or maintenance.
Should I shop online or in-store on Cyber Monday?
Cyber Monday is designed for online deals, and many exclusive offers are only available online. However, visiting a dealership before Cyber Monday can help you test-drive and confirm your preferred model.
What financing options are best for Cyber Monday car purchases?
Pre-approved financing from banks or credit unions is recommended, as they often offer lower rates than dealerships.
How early should I start researching Cyber Monday car deals?
Begin research at least two weeks in advance. By identifying your preferred models, checking prices, and securing financing, you’ll be prepared to act quickly when Cyber Monday arrives.
Conclusion
Cyber Monday presents a fantastic opportunity to buy a car with the potential for huge savings. By preparing early, securing financing, and knowing where to find the best online deals, you can enjoy a smooth and rewarding buying experience.
Whether in the market for a new or used car, these Cyber Monday car-buying tips help ensure you’ll drive away with a deal you can feel good about.
Be a Smart Cyber Monday Car Shopper
The top tip for saving money on a new or used car this Cyber Monday is to always “DO YOUR CAR BUYING HOMEWORK FIRST!” For valuable advice on navigating the car-buying process, take some time to explore my free online car-buying guide before starting your search.
Consider using an online referral service like Ryde Shopper for free price quotes, including Cyber Monday discounts or cash-back incentives. Leading up to Cyber Monday, learn how to research and compare new cars online before heading to the dealership.
About the author
My name is Carlton Wolf, and I’ve been in the car business since 1994, both retail and wholesale. I created the Auto Cheat Sheet to better educate buyers about the deceptive sales practices many dealerships use nationwide. Please understand that not all car dealers are dishonest. However, you never know who you’ll be dealing with, though. I’m willing to share my knowledge and experience with anyone who listens. Keep in mind that I’m a car guy, not a writer.
