Labor Day isn’t just the unofficial end of summer; it’s also one of the biggest weekends of the year for car lovers to score incredible deals. Whether you’re looking to upgrade from your current ride or you’ve been eyeing a reliable used car to save on your daily commute, Labor Day weekend brings with it some of the best promotions dealerships have to offer. From significant discounts to generous trade-in bonuses, this holiday is all about clearing out inventory and enticing shoppers with massive savings. But what makes Labor Day sales so special, and how can you maximize your car-buying potential this weekend? Buckle up—we’re about to break it all down.

Why Labor Day Weekend Gets You Great Deals

Labor Day weekend sits at a prime point in the calendar for car shopping. August and September are pivotal months in the auto industry, as dealerships rush to make room for incoming models from manufacturers. This means older inventory, whether it’s last year’s new models or a surplus of trade-ins, is often heavily discounted to get it off the lot fast. The need to clear space is great news for buyers, as dealers become more flexible and customers gain negotiating power.

Labor Day weekend falls at the end of the summer, which is traditionally a slower car-buying season. Many people have just wrapped up their vacations or have spent their summer savings, making demand slightly lower. Dealerships recognize this and add extra incentives like zero-percent financing offers, reduced pricing on certified pre-owned vehicles, or cash rebates to lure in hesitant shoppers. Combine that with a long weekend to shop comfortably, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for scoring an unbeatable deal.

Discounts on Used Cars That Can’t Be Missed

If you’re in the market for a used car, Labor Day weekend can be especially lucrative. For one, trade-ins typically spike during major sales events, giving dealerships a surplus of pre-owned options that need to be sold. This increase in inventory often translates to price cuts on everything from classic sedans to SUVs, and even hybrid options. Cars that dealers consider “overstocked” or that have been sitting on the lot longer than they’d like are likely to see even greater reductions.

Certified pre-owned vehicles, or CPOs, often get a healthy focus during Labor Day events as well. These vehicles, which are rigorously inspected and come with extended warranties, offer buyers peace of mind without the hefty price tag of a brand-new car. Many dealerships sweeten the pot by bundling CPO cars with perks like free maintenance plans or lower APRs over the holiday.

Timing Your Visit

When it comes to taking advantage of Labor Day deals, timing matters. While the entire weekend is full of opportunities, strategizing your visit can make all the difference. Early shoppers on Saturday often get first dibs on the best inventory. If you’ve got a specific car in mind, arriving as soon as the doors open can help you grab it before someone else does. However, waiting until later in the weekend, like Sunday or Monday, can put you in a better negotiating position. Sales teams looking to close out the weekend stronger may be more willing to offer additional perks or price reductions if you’re serious about buying.

Another tip is to pay attention to local advertisement flyers and dealer promotions before heading out. Many dealerships run exclusive weekend offers on select models, and doing some research ahead of time ensures you’re not wasting time visiting lots that don’t align with your needs.

Trade-Ins and Extra Incentives

Labor Day promotions don’t just offer discounts on new or used cars; they also frequently come with trade-in bonuses. If you’ve got a car you’re planning to part ways with as part of your purchase, this weekend may be the best time to do it. Many dealerships add bonuses on top of the assessed trade-in value, making it possible to apply even more savings toward your next car.

For example, a car valued at $8,000 might see an extra $1,000 bonus simply because it’s a holiday weekend. That extra value can significantly lower your overall financing needs or give you room to consider a slightly more expensive model.

Financing Offers to Watch

Labor Day weekend is also a great time for buyers looking to finance their purchase. Dealerships and manufacturers often roll out low APR rates for qualified buyers, with rates as low as zero percent being a common highlight. These offers allow buyers to pay off their loans interest-free for the duration of the term, saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars compared to conventional loans.

Even if zero-percent financing isn’t on the table for used cars, many dealerships offer reduced rates on financing during this time to encourage buyers to make a quick decision. To prepare, it’s smart to get pre-approved for a loan from your bank or credit union before shopping. Pre-approval gives you clarity on your budget and demonstrates to the dealership that you’re a serious buyer, which can make you a stronger negotiator when it’s time to finalize a deal.

Don’t Overlook the Fine Print

While Labor Day sales promise enticing deals and endless advertising hype, staying cautious and reading the fine print is a must. Some discounts or financing options might only apply to certain models, and others may require higher-than-usual down payments for qualification. Additional fees, such as dealership add-ons or extensive warranties, could also inflate the final price, so don’t shy away from asking for a breakdown of all costs before signing on the dotted line.

By sticking to your research, budget, and a clear understanding of what promotions apply to your situation, you’ll be well-equipped to find the car you’ve been looking for at a price that’s perfect for you.