Unlike other markets, Singapore’s car prices are heavily influenced by the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system, government regulations, and unique local factors.

From COE quota releases and dealership sales targets to global supply chain shifts, several variables affect when you might get the best deal. For those looking to finance their purchase, securing a pre-approved car loan can further enhance your bargaining power and ensure you're ready to act when the right deal presents itself. In this guide, we will break down the optimal times to buy a car in Singapore, whether you're eyeing a brand-new vehicle or a used one.

Timing your car purchase in Singapore requires more than just waiting for festive sales. Unlike in other countries where discounts peak during Black Friday or year-end holidays, Singapore's car prices are primarily driven by COE trends and dealership sales cycles. Whether you're buying new or used, understanding these local patterns can help you secure a better deal.

Increased COE supply

In Singapore, the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system has the greatest influence on car prices. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) conducts open bidding exercises twice a month, during which the COE quota for each vehicle category is announced. This quota directly determines how many new vehicles can be registered in Singapore.

If the upcoming quota shows a significant increase in available COEs, car prices may soften in subsequent bidding exercises. Increased supply generally puts downward pressure on COE premiums, making cars more affordable. Once you secure a COE in a successful bidding exercise, you can register a vehicle and use it for 10 years.

To make the most of this:

• Monitor recent COE bidding results for your preferred category (A: ≤1600cc, B: >1600cc, C: Goods Vehicles, D: Motorcycles, E: Open).

• If the latest COE quota announcement indicates a larger allocation—especially for Categories A or B—then April and May 2025 could present an ideal buying window.

• Be mindful of new model launches, which can spike demand and potentially drive COE prices back up, especially in popular categories.

Year-end car shopping in Singapore

The year-end period is traditionally one of the best times to shop for a car in Singapore. This is when dealerships are racing to hit annual sales targets and clear out current-year stock before the next batch of vehicles arrives.

You’re likely to see:

• Year-end clearance sales

• Discounted prices on current-year models

• Free add-ons, such as in-car tech or extended warranty packages

• Extended warranties or better financing terms

Additionally, because the Singapore Motorshow typically takes place in January, some buyers choose to wait and see what new models are launched. The short-term dip in demand during December can give buyers extra room to negotiate with dealers looking to close the year strong.

Buying a car at the end of the month or quarter of the year

Just like with annual targets, monthly and quarterly goals also drive dealership behavior. In Singapore, many dealers push hard to meet their quotas by the end of:

• End of each month

• End of each financial quarter: March, June, September, and December

During these windows, salespeople may be more flexible with pricing, throw in extra perks, or offer limited-time promotions to boost their numbers. If you’ve already done your homework and are ready to buy, this could be the perfect time to negotiate.

If you're eyeing a new car, patience can pay off—newly launched models tend to be priced higher, so waiting a few months may get you a better deal. Flashy promotions and discounts during roadshows or anniversaries aren’t always what they seem; prices are often inflated before the “discount” is applied. 

The real game-changer is the COE—when it dips, so do car prices, making it the best time to buy. Since COE bidding closes every first and third Wednesday of the month, avoid buying a car within the three days leading up to it, as dealers often hike prices to buffer against COE spikes. And if you’re planning to visit a showroom, try a weekday—you’ll get more attention and have space to ask all your questions without the weekend rush.

» Here are 7 factors to consider before buying a car in Singapore

When it comes to buying a used car in Singapore, the “best time” really depends on how long you plan to keep it. A big factor to watch is the remaining COE lifespan: 

• Cars with 5+ years left: Higher upfront cost, but more time before you need to renew the COE. Ideal if you plan to own long-term.

• Cars with 1–3 years left: Lower price tag, but good for short-term use without the commitment. Great if you're testing out car ownership or only need a vehicle temporarily.

There’s also a sweet spot to aim for—cars that are 3 to 5 years old. These tend to hit the right balance between affordability and remaining lifespan. You’re not paying the premium for something almost new, but you’re also avoiding the higher maintenance and depreciation risks that come with older vehicles.

Rather than chasing promotions or timing the market, you’ll get more value by focusing on the car’s condition, its COE balance, and how it fits into your lifestyle.

» Read our guide to buying a second-hand used car in Singapore

As mentioned, COE trends influence car prices far more than any particular month or date in Singapore. Since bidding closes every first and third Wednesday, prices typically spike in the days leading up to it as dealers hedge against potential increases.

To get the best deal:

• Avoid the few days before COE closes

• Visit showrooms on weekdays for better service and less pressure

• While festive or quarter-end promos exist, tracking COE movements gives you the most reliable pricing edge

There’s no single perfect time to buy a car in Singapore—it really depends on your personal needs, budget, and timing. While tracking COE trends, interest rates, and seasonal promotions can help you save, external factors like inflation and global supply chain issues can still affect prices and availability. That’s why it’s smart to plan ahead, secure pre-approved financing, and stay flexible with your options. If you’re clear on what you want and ready to move when the right deal comes along, you’ll put yourself in the best position to make a confident, well-timed purchase.