Best Time of Year to Sell Your Car (Seasonal Guide)

Selling a car is about more than mileage or price – timing is key. In the UK, seasonal trends, registration plate changes, holidays, and even fuel prices can all affect the market. By understanding these patterns, you can choose the right moment to sell and get the best return.

Whether you're selling due to rising used car prices or part-exchanging for a new model, here's a helpful month-by-month guide to selling your car in the UK.

Spring: A Tap on the Door of Buyer Demand

March to May is one of the most active periods for car sales. The weather improves, and people are generally more motivated to shop. Many receive tax refunds or bonuses and are ready to buy.

March also sees the release of new registration plates, encouraging a wave of trade-ins. If you're planning to sell, it's wise to advertise early in the season before competition increases.

Best to sell:

• Hatchbacks
• Estates
• City cars
• Nearly-new models

Summer: Good Weather, Mixed Demand

Summer can be hit or miss. Sporty cars, convertibles, and fun runarounds are in demand, as buyers think about road trips and open-air driving. However, overall market activity may dip in July and August due to school holidays and summer travel.

Remaining buyers may be more committed, meaning faster sales if priced right.

Best to sell:

• Convertible cars
• Sports cars
• Weekend runarounds

Autumn: The Pre-Winter Dip

September introduces another new plate release, creating a surge of activity. Once this wave settles, October and November see a slower market, with buyers prioritising school expenses and winter budgets.

That said, autumn can still be a strong season for family cars and winter-ready vehicles.

Best to sell:

• SUVs
• Family vehicles
• 4x4s and winter-prepared cars

Winter: Harsh but Strategic

December and January are quiet months for car sales. People focus on holidays or recover from them, and the dark, cold weather discourages viewings. However, fewer listings mean less competition.

Well-priced winter vehicles can stand out and attract serious buyers.

Best to sell:

• 4x4s
• Winter-ready cars
• Budget-friendly cars

Registration Plate Changes: March & September

Every March and September, the DVLA issues new registration plates. These dates drive a rush in new car purchases and generate a spike in second-hand inventory.

Here’s how to time your sale around the plates:

• If your car is nearly new, sell before the plate change to retain value.
• If part-exchanging, take advantage of dealer incentives.
• If selling privately, consider listing just after the rush to catch buyers who missed out on new vehicles.

Pro tip: Add a tagline to your listing like “Just before the new plate launch – save thousands on new!”

Economic Trends & Fuel Prices

Not all timing is seasonal. Sometimes the market is influenced by fuel prices or regulatory changes.

For example:

• Sell ULEZ-compliant or electric cars when fuel prices spike
• Sell diesel vans before new emissions rules come into force

Dealer Incentives & End-of-Quarter Targets

Dealers often have sales targets to hit at the end of each quarter – usually March, June, September, and December. If you're open to dealer offers or part-exchange, you might receive a better price during these windows.

Holidays & Public Events

Buyers tend to be more active during school holidays and quiet during major national events.

Good times to sell:

• Easter break
• Summer holidays
• Half-term periods

Times to avoid:

• Major sporting events
• Political disruptions or economic uncertainty

Tips for Selling Your Car at the Right Time

Here’s how to make the most of seasonal timing:

• Plan at least one month ahead
• List midweek (Wednesday/Thursday evenings are peak browsing times)
• Monitor car prices using Auto Trader or Car Owl
• Sell before your MOT expires to increase buyer confidence
• Be flexible – a fast sale in winter can save on tax and insurance

Selling Your Car with Car Owl

Whether it's peak season or a quiet week in January, Car Owl offers a seamless way to sell your car with minimal hassle.

• Get instant offers from verified UK dealers
• No tyre kickers or haggling
• No hidden costs or fees
• Your car is viewed by serious buyers ready to make an offer

Pro tip: List your vehicle even if you're not quite ready to sell. Car Owl lets you test the waters with no commitment.

Conclusion: Strategic Selling = More Value

The best time to sell your car depends on your vehicle type, the market, and buyer behaviour. By using seasonal insights, you can make informed choices and maximise your sale price.

Key takeaways:

• Spring and summer bring general buyer enthusiasm
• Autumn and winter require smart pricing but offer opportunity
• Plate change months are powerful selling windows
• Economic and seasonal trends both matter

With the right timing and the right platform, you can sell your car quickly, securely, and at a great price.

To get started, visit our Sell My Car page today and take advantage of expert guidance and a trusted network of verified dealers.