Memorial Day weekend remains one of the best times to buy a new car. Here's what industry insiders say to expect this year and how to maximize your savings.
Expected Deals
- 0% APR financing on select models from GM, Ford, and Stellantis
- Lease deals starting under $250/month on compact SUVs
- EV incentives stacking federal credits with manufacturer rebates
- Used car prices expected to drop 5-8% from current levels
How to Prepare Now
Start researching prices and getting pre-approved for financing through your bank or credit union. Dealer financing may offer 0% APR, but having a backup approval gives you negotiating power.
Check your credit score — a score above 720 will qualify you for the best rates. If you're below that, spending the next month paying down credit card balances can make a significant difference.
Know your trade-in value before stepping onto the lot. Get quotes from Carvana, CarMax, and KBB to establish a baseline.
