Presidents' Day Weekend is one of the best dates to buy a new vehicle, with 47 percent more discounted deals than on normal days, according to CarPro. There are good reasons for that, auto experts say.
“Along with Christmas time and holidays like Memorial Day, Presidents’ Day can be a great time to shop for a new car, as many promotions within dealerships focus on outgoing model year vehicles,” Luke Oswald, automotive specialist at Wheels Away, told NTD News. “Some dealerships may have stock left over from the Christmas holiday sales, too.”
Oswald points out that not every deal is worth taking. “It’s important to remember that dealerships put lots of marketing behind Presidents’ Day to tempt potential buyers,” he noted
Getting the Best Deal On a New Set of Wheels
Auto experts say keeping a cool head, knowing what vehicle you want and at what price, and staying calm when negotiations heat up are the best strategies to secure a good auto deal on Presidents' Day weekend. Here's how to get the car-buying job done right.
Cover all the bases before you hit the dealership
Before you begin your new car search, don’t get too tempted by offers, and ensure you’re purchasing the right vehicle for your needs. “Ignore the headline price and make sure you look at the all-in cost, for example, fees, delivery, insurance, and interest (if you are making monthly payments) add up very quickly,” Oswald advised.
Lock in a price range before you auto shop
Prior to looking at cars, whether that’s online or visiting a dealership, one of the most important things to do is decide what you’re comfortable spending. “Don’t move that number once finance enters the conversation, or you’ve seen a car above your price range,” Oswald said.
Oswald also advised checking the dealership websites before visiting to check their inventory. “Also, make sure the manufacturer websites and decide what type of make and model you're looking for,” he said.
Aim for EV discounts
President’s Day auto shoppers can leverage solid deals in one particular area right now. “The best deals of the last 3-6 months are likely behind us until the end of 2026, but there is one area that I have never seen more value, and that’s with electric vehicles,” Jonathan Maula, chief investment officer of Castle Hill Capital, a Virginia-based wealth management firm, told NTD News
A good example right now is the Chevy Equinox EVs. “This is a car with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of around $37,000, and you can get into one right now for under $25,000,” Maula said. “If you look at used car deals might be even better.”
In many cases, dealerships have picked up last year’s $7,500 EV tax credit (since discontinued) and are passing the discount through to EV prices.
“Many of these dealerships are less likely to play games with you and are looking to get these cars off the lot as soon as possible,” Maula said. “Always ask for the out-of-the-door price. Anything else is just confusion and fluff. The out-the-door price is the true price you'll pay for the car.”
Get pre-approved for financing
Make sure to secure a loan approval from your bank or credit union before shopping. “That way, you'll have a clear understanding of your budget and avoid getting locked into less favorable dealership financing,” Joyce Ann Gutierrez, automotive analyst at 4WheelOnline.com, told NTD.
Don't rush into a decision just because it's a holiday sale event.
If you find a vehicle you like, take it for an extended test drive and review its history report if buying used. “Ask about warranties or return policies; these details can save you from headaches down the road,” Gutierrez added.
Take a Walk If You’re Getting Second Thoughts
Be ready to walk away if the deal doesn't meet your expectations. “With so many options available during President's Day weekend sales events, patience pays off and ensures you drive away with both confidence and value, Gutierrez said.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the interviewees. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. NTD does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. NTD holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.