Updated: Dec 26, 2024

The car market is constantly shifting, and dealerships are often left with unsold SUVs they need to move fast. Discover how you can score incredible savings by taking advantage of these discounted vehicles while helping dealerships clear their inventory.

If you’re in the market for a new SUV but don’t want to break the bank, you’re in luck. Many dealerships have unsold SUVs from previous model years or overstocked inventory, which means they’re offering steep discounts to get them off the lot. By knowing when and where to look, you can find a great deal on a quality SUV without paying full price. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best strategies for finding an affordable SUV and explain why these discounts happen in the first place.

Why Are There Unsold SUVs?

Dealerships often end up with unsold SUVs for a variety of reasons. Maybe a particular model didn’t sell as well as anticipated, or perhaps a new model year is coming out, and the old stock needs to be cleared. Sometimes, dealerships overestimate demand and order too many vehicles, leading to an excess inventory. Whatever the reason, these unsold SUVs represent a golden opportunity for savvy buyers looking to save.

Unsold SUVs are typically offered at a discount because dealerships need to free up space for new models and avoid paying interest on loans they took out to buy the cars from the manufacturer. This creates a win-win situation: you get a lower price on a great vehicle, and the dealership gets to move their inventory.

Where to Find Unsold SUVs

Finding unsold SUVs isn’t as difficult as you might think. Here are a few key places to start your search:

1. Dealership Clearance Events

Many dealerships host clearance events at the end of the year, especially when new model years are about to arrive. These events often feature deep discounts on unsold SUVs, making it the perfect time to find a bargain. Keep an eye on local dealership ads and online promotions to know when these events are happening.

2. Manufacturer Websites

Car manufacturers often list special offers and promotions on their websites, including discounts on unsold inventory. You can search for SUVs by make and model, and sometimes even filter for specific deals in your area. This is a great way to find vehicles that may not be heavily advertised at individual dealerships.

3. Online Car Marketplaces

Websites like Autotrader, Cars.com, and TrueCar aggregate listings from multiple dealerships, making it easy to compare prices and find the best deals on unsold SUVs. Many of these platforms also offer price comparison tools, so you can see how much you’re saving compared to the original sticker price.

4. End of the Month and Quarter Deals

Dealerships are often more motivated to move vehicles at the end of the month or quarter to meet sales goals. This can lead to extra incentives or discounts on unsold SUVs as they try to close deals and hit their numbers. Shopping during these times can give you an advantage when negotiating.

How to Negotiate for the Best Price

Once you’ve found an SUV you’re interested in, it’s time to negotiate for the best possible price. Here are some tips to help you get the most bang for your buck:

1. Do Your Research

Before heading to the dealership, research the SUV’s market value. Websites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds can give you an idea of what others are paying for the same make and model. This will give you a solid starting point for negotiations and help you avoid overpaying.

2. Ask About Incentives and Rebates

Dealerships often offer additional incentives or rebates on unsold SUVs to sweeten the deal. These can include cash-back offers, low-interest financing, or even special lease terms. Be sure to ask the salesperson if there are any current promotions that can lower the price even further.

3. Negotiate the Out-the-Door Price

When negotiating, focus on the “out-the-door” price, which includes taxes, fees, and any additional charges. This will give you a better idea of the total cost of the vehicle, rather than just the base price. Many buyers make the mistake of only negotiating the sticker price, only to be surprised by extra costs added at the end.

4. Be Willing to Walk Away

One of the most powerful tools in your negotiation toolkit is the ability to walk away. If the dealership isn’t willing to meet your price or provide enough incentives, don’t be afraid to leave. There are plenty of other unsold SUVs on the market, and walking away could prompt the dealership to make a better offer.

Best Times to Buy an Unsold SUV

Timing is everything when it comes to getting the best deal on an unsold SUV. Here are a few key times of the year when dealerships are more likely to offer deep discounts:

1. End of the Model Year

As mentioned earlier, dealerships need to make room for new models, so they often slash prices on unsold SUVs from the previous model year. The best time to look for these deals is usually between August and October, but the timing can vary depending on the manufacturer.

2. Holiday Sales Events

Major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday often come with special promotions and discounts on unsold SUVs. Dealerships know that shoppers are in a spending mood during these times, so they use the opportunity to clear out old inventory.

3. End of the Calendar Year

December is one of the best months to buy a car, including unsold SUVs. Dealerships are eager to hit year-end sales targets, and manufacturers often offer generous rebates and incentives to move vehicles. You’ll likely find some of the biggest discounts during this time.

Additional Considerations

While buying an unsold SUV can save you money, there are a few other factors to keep in mind to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

1. Check for Warranty Coverage

Even though you’re buying an older model, unsold SUVs should still come with the manufacturer’s full warranty. Be sure to ask about the warranty coverage to ensure that you’re protected in case of any issues down the road.

2. Look for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Options

If the dealership has unsold SUVs from a previous model year, they may offer them as Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles. CPO SUVs typically come with extended warranties and undergo thorough inspections, giving you extra peace of mind at a discounted price.

3. Consider Depreciation

While the price of an unsold SUV is lower than a brand-new model, keep in mind that it’s still technically a new car, and it will start depreciating as soon as you drive it off the lot. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s something to consider, especially if you plan to sell or trade in the vehicle in the future.

Final Thoughts

Finding a great deal on an unsold SUV is all about timing, research, and negotiation. By taking advantage of dealership clearance events, end-of-year promotions, and other incentives, you can drive away with a high-quality vehicle at a fraction of the price. Just remember to do your homework, compare prices, and be ready to walk away if necessary. With these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to scoring the SUV you want at a price that fits your budget.