September is the most popular month for new cars - a hangover from the old annual registration change.
Now car registrations change twice a year; it gives the canny buyer two bites at the discount cherry.
The reason is simple: dealers want to rid themselves of any old or pre-registered stock before the new reg arrives, which means 24 hours can make the difference between discount and disappointment.
But if you buy just before the latest registration mark arrives, your new car will still be regarded as six months older when you come to sell than your neighbour's with the newer reg.
If you can't wait until then, the end of the month is the best time to talk tough on new car. Dealers are keen to boost their monthly sales figures and this is the time they will be most generous.
Holiday times are another good bet for securing a deal. While the rest of the country is busy spending money elsewhere, July and August are quiet for car dealers, so make the most of it because they need your business.
The same applies to January, when most people have a financial hangover from Christmas.
