CarGurus UK Editorial Director Chris Knapman has revealed that selling a car in June or July could lead to a higher profit, but the outcome depends heavily on the type of vehicle. Speaking exclusively to us, Knapman explained that seasonal demand shifts can work in a seller's favour, particularly during a heatwave when many potential buyers postpone purchases for leisure activities.
Quarterly Targets and Heatwave Advantage
Knapman noted that sales executives often work toward quarterly targets, making the end of June a strategic time to visit a dealership. He said: "While there is no fixed rule, sales executives often work to quarterly sales targets. As such, visiting a dealership towards the end of a quarter, such as in June, could give you a stronger chance of landing the best possible deal." He added that a heatwave can further tip the scales: "Visiting during a heatwave could also mean you arrive at the showroom while others defer their purchase in favour of a beach visit or barbecue. This temporary slowdown in demand has the potential to act in the buyer's favour."
Vehicle Type Determines Optimal Selling Season
For those looking to sell, Knapman emphasised that seasonality plays a key role. He explained: "The price you get for selling your car will depend on many factors, but seasonality certainly comes into play. For example, if you have an SUV or crossover, its value will tend to rise in the colder months, so selling in June or July might not get you the optimum price. However, the opposite is true for convertibles or classic cars, where the promise of warmer weather pushes up demand." This means sellers of SUVs should wait until autumn or winter, while convertible and classic car owners can capitalise on summer demand.
Heatwave Driving Advice from the RAC
As the UK experiences temperatures nearing 40°C in some areas, the Met Office has issued red heat alert warnings. The RAC's road and safety spokesperson Rod Dennis advised drivers without air conditioning to reconsider non-essential journeys. He said: "Red extreme heat warnings are rare and we urge everyone to take them seriously this week. Drivers whose vehicles don't have effective air conditioning should strongly consider postponing any non-essential car journeys until the Met Office's weather warnings are lifted and temperatures drop. If this isn't possible, our best advice is to travel during cooler times of day. This is especially important for anyone travelling with vulnerable people, including young children and older adults, who are at greater risk from the intense heat."
