Used Car Prices Have Hit Their Peak
Most analyts were expecting prices to peak and head lower beginning in June, but the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index shows that prices started heading down in April. Used cars have commanded higher prices over the last couple of years due to limited inventory and high gas prices, which boosts demand for fuel-efficient vehicles.
If you're shopping for a new car, now's a good time to consider selling your trade-in while used car prices are at their peak. If you're looking to buy a used car, prices usually hit bottom between December and January.
I don't expect used car prices to head too much lower since there's still a lot of demand, but timing your purchase towards the end of the year might save you a few hundred dollars.
3 Steps Every Car Buyer Needs to Take to Save Maximum Money
The key to getting the best deal is to gather price or lease bids from as many local dealers as possible. Then shop that best price around until no one can beat it. Here are the steps:Step 1 Get Prices From My Trusted Network
Select the vehicle you're interested in to see if there are local dealers in my network who will provide you with their best upfront price. You will get direct access to an internet sales manager who you can further negotiate with online (no need to visit dealership).Step 2 Get Prices From TrueCar / CarsDirect
TrueCar, and CarsDirect are my top 2 online price quote recommendations. These services show you pre-negotiated prices from dealers closest to you - and the deals are usually pretty decent. But remember, you can still negotiate further.Step 3 Complete my Checklist
Follow this up with my checklist to make sure you squeeze out every last bit of savings.- Gregg Fidan

Each week, I'll keep you up-to-date on the latest car deals and news that might affect your purchase. This includes...
- Best Rebates, Incentives, and Lease Deals
- Latest Car Buying Scams and Tricks
- The Best & Worst Time to Buy a Car
- Which Cars You Should Avoid
About The Author

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