Since 1946

Understanding Seasonal Buying Patterns

The automotive market follows predictable cycles that create opportunities for savvy Ford buyers in Los Angeles. At Galpin Ford in North Hills, we see distinct purchasing seasons throughout the year, each offering unique advantages. Understanding these patterns helps you maximize savings on your next F-150, Bronco, or Mustang.

Spring typically brings strong sales activity as tax refunds arrive and families prepare for summer road trips. Manufacturers respond with competitive financing offers and rebates to capture this increased buyer interest. Memorial Day weekend marks the traditional start of summer sales events, when our new vehicle specials often feature zero percent financing and substantial cash back incentives.

Fall delivers another prime buying window. As September approaches, Ford dealerships work to clear current model-year inventory before new models arrive. Los Angeles buyers benefit from aggressive discounting on outgoing-year vehicles. These Fords are brand new with full warranties but carry lower price tags simply because of the calendar. The savings can reach several thousand dollars compared to identical vehicles from the incoming model year.

Year-End Deals and Dealer Incentives

December ranks as the absolute best month for new car deals. Galpin Ford, like all dealerships, operates on annual sales goals set by Ford Motor Company. Reaching these targets unlocks significant dealer bonuses and allocations for high-demand models. This creates powerful motivation to move inventory during the final weeks of December.

Our North Hills team has earned the title of the world’s number one Ford dealer for 29 consecutive years by meeting and exceeding these annual objectives. We pass savings directly to Los Angeles customers through year-end pricing that reflects our commitment to volume sales. Combining manufacturer rebates with dealer discounts produces the lowest prices of the year.

Holiday sales events also feature exceptional financing promotions. Zero percent APR for up to 72 months appears regularly on select models. These offers eliminate interest charges entirely, saving thousands compared to traditional auto loans. Even buyers with excellent credit who could secure low market rates benefit from zero percent factory financing.

Model Year Changeover Strategy

Ford introduces new model year vehicles on a rolling schedule throughout the year. Different nameplates transition at different times, creating specific windows of opportunity for Los Angeles buyers. At Galpin Ford, we track these changeover periods and alert customers when their desired model reaches optimal discount levels.

Generally, expect outgoing model year inventory to reach peak discount levels sixty to ninety days after the new model year arrives. Dealers need to clear space for incoming vehicles, and manufacturers increase incentives to accelerate the process. The outgoing models contain nearly identical features and technology as the new year versions, making them exceptional values.

For example, if you want a Ford Explorer and the new model year launches in July, September and October offer the best deals on the previous year. Our new Explorer inventory clearly identifies model years so buyers can compare pricing between years.

Some Los Angeles buyers prefer waiting for the absolute latest model year. This approach makes sense when Ford introduces significant redesigns or new technology. However, for vehicles with minor year-over-year changes, purchasing the outgoing year delivers better value. Our sales team at Galpin Ford provides honest assessments of model year differences so you can make informed timing decisions.

Using Your Trade-In as Leverage

The timing of your trade-in significantly impacts your overall deal. Vehicle values fluctuate based on market demand, seasonal factors, and new model introductions. Trucks and SUVs command premium trade-in values during spring and summer when buyers seek vehicles for recreation and vacation travel. Conversely, fuel efficient cars perform better during periods of rising gas prices.

Our trade-in valuation tool provides real-time market assessments of your current vehicle. Galpin Ford appraises all makes and models, and we purchase vehicles even if you do not buy from us. Timing your trade-in to coincide with strong market demand maximizes the value applied toward your new Ford purchase.

Another strategy involves separating your trade-in from your new vehicle purchase. If current deals on new Fords are exceptional but your trade-in value is temporarily depressed, consider purchasing the new vehicle and selling your current car later when values improve. This approach requires temporarily handling two vehicles, but can yield better overall economics. Our finance specialists help Los Angeles buyers evaluate these scenarios based on their specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Timing Your Ford Purchase

Does Galpin Ford offer better deals on weekdays or weekends?

Pricing remains consistent throughout the week. However, visiting our North Hills showroom on weekdays often means more personalized attention from our sales team and faster processing through finance. Weekend traffic increases naturally, which can extend the purchase timeline.

Should I wait for Presidents’ Day or Memorial Day sales events?

Both holidays typically feature strong manufacturer incentives. Presidents’ Day falls early in the year, making it ideal for buyers who want a new Ford for spring and summer driving. Memorial Day deals are equally competitive. Check our current specials during both periods to compare offers.

How far in advance does Galpin Ford announce new incentives?

Manufacturer programs typically launch on the first of each month. We receive preliminary information several days early, allowing our team to alert customers who have expressed interest in specific models. Following Galpin Ford on social media or subscribing to our email list ensures you receive timely updates.

Will waiting for a better deal risk losing the vehicle I want?
High-demand models like the Bronco and F-150 can sell quickly when inventory is limited. Our sales team monitors stock levels and can advise whether waiting for additional discounts carries risk. In some cases, securing a popular configuration at current pricing makes more sense than gambling on future availability.

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