Car clearance events can mean big savings if timed right. These sales usually happen at the end of the model year or during inventory shifts. To get the best deal, research ahead, compare offers, and negotiate smartly. This guide shows how to find and secure top car clearance deals.

Understanding Car Clearance Deals

Car clearance deals are promotional offers provided by dealerships to expedite the sale of vehicles that are either overstocked, from the previous model year, or soon to be replaced by updated versions. These deals may include:

Discounted sale prices on new or used vehicles

Manufacturer rebates or cash-back incentives

Special financing rates or lease terms

Bonus offers such as free maintenance or accessories

Clearance deals can be found at both franchised dealerships representing major automakers and independent used car lots. The most significant discounts are usually available on outgoing models, vehicles with unpopular colors or features, and cars that have been on the lot for an extended period.

When to Shop for the Best Deals

End of the Model Year: Dealerships often slash prices to make room for incoming models, typically between August and December.

Holiday Sales Events: Major holidays such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday are popular times for clearance events.

End of the Month/Quarter: Sales teams may offer extra incentives to meet quotas.

When New Generations Arrive: Outgoing models are discounted when a redesigned version is released.

Where to Find Car Clearance Deals:

Dealership Websites: Most dealerships list clearance vehicles and special offers on their websites.

Automotive Marketplaces: Platforms like Cars.com, Autotrader, and Edmunds aggregate clearance listings from multiple dealerships.

Manufacturer Sites: Automakers often feature national and regional incentives for specific models.

Local Classifieds: Websites such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can include clearance-priced vehicles from both dealers and private sellers.

Key Factors Influencing Clearance Pricing

Model Year: Older models are typically discounted more heavily.

Inventory Levels: High inventory can lead to greater discounts.

Vehicle Condition: Demos or vehicles with minor cosmetic flaws may be priced lower.

Incentives: Manufacturer rebates, loyalty bonuses, or dealer cash can reduce the final price

How to Evaluate and Compare Clearance Deals

Research the fair market value of the vehicle using tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds.

Compare pricing and incentives across multiple dealerships.

Request itemized price breakdowns, including taxes, fees, and add-ons.

Check for hidden costs, such as dealer-installed options or extended warranties.

Negotiate based on competing offers and be prepared to walk away if the deal does not meet your expectations.

Comparison Table: Leading Car Clearance Deal Platforms and Dealerships (2025)

Platform/Dealership Type Typical Savings Key Features Example Price (2024 Toyota Camry LE, New)

Cars.com Online Marketplace Up to 15 percent off MSRP Aggregates nationwide listings, price comparison tools $24,500 - $26,000

Autotrader Online Marketplace Up to 14 percent off MSRP Advanced filters, dealer ratings, price alerts $24,800 - $26,200

Edmunds Online Marketplace Up to 13 percent off MSRP True Market Value pricing, expert reviews $24,600 - $26,100

CarMax Used Car Retailer Up to 10 percent off retail price No-haggle pricing, 24-hour test drives $23,900 - $25,500 (used, low mileage)

AutoNation Franchised Dealership Up to 12 percent off MSRP National clearance events, certified pre-owned options $25,000 - $26,300

Local Toyota Dealerships Franchised Dealership Up to 16 percent off MSRP during clearance Manufacturer incentives, trade-in offers $24,000 - $25,800

Tips for Getting the Best Clearance Price

Start your search early and monitor price trends for your preferred models.

Be flexible with color, trim, and features to access the deepest discounts.

Secure pre-approved financing before visiting dealerships to strengthen your negotiating position.

Ask about all available incentives, including loyalty, conquest, and military offers.

Negotiate the out-the-door price, not just the monthly payment.

Review the vehicle history report for used cars to ensure transparency.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

Overlooking additional fees and add-ons that can increase the final price.

Focusing solely on monthly payments instead of the total cost.

Failing to compare offers from multiple sources.

Rushing the purchase decision without adequate research.