Traditionally, model years begin in September. Car makers tend to offer rebates in the summer and fall on the current year's crop of cars, if they don't plan major changes to the model for the upcoming year. Redesigns are released throughout the year, but especially in the spring. Check with a dealer about when to expect them and look for sales on the older models a couple of months before the introduction. December brings bad weather, which keeps buyers away from outdoor lots, and the specter of taxes, which makes dealers more eager to clear those lots.
Dealers often are very flexible at the end of the year.
But if an accident puts you in the position of buying in a less than optimal season, wait until the end of the month, when salespeople need to make deals to meet sales goals. Refuse to play games. After finding a car and dealer that meet your needs, go to the dealership or Web site armed with your research. Remembering that everything is negotiable, ask the salesperson to give you the best price on the vehicle. Ask that the price be written down and fully calculated with all necessary fees and charges.