Car Discounts: How to Get Real Savings on 2018 Models

When you’re hunting for a car discount, a reduction in the price of a vehicle offered by a dealer or manufacturer to encourage a sale. Also known as car deal, it’s not just about flashing a coupon—it’s about knowing when, where, and how to ask for the right thing. A good car discount doesn’t come from luck. It comes from understanding what drives dealers to lower prices—like end-of-year inventory clears, slow-moving models, or the need to hit monthly sales targets. In 2018, many cars were sitting on lots longer than usual, and smart buyers used that to their advantage.

Dealers don’t just give discounts because they feel nice. They do it because they have to. A seasonal marketing campaign, a timed promotion by dealerships to boost sales during holidays or model year transitions like Black Friday or Labor Day often unlocks the biggest savings. But even outside those windows, you can find deals if you know how to use email quotes, written price offers from dealers sent electronically to compare and negotiate. Getting multiple quotes via email lets you play dealers against each other without stepping foot on a lot. It removes the pressure and puts the power in your hands.

And don’t forget the role of certified pre-owned, a used car that’s been inspected and backed by the manufacturer with a warranty. Also known as CPO, it’s not always more expensive than a regular used car—especially when you factor in the warranty and peace of mind. A CPO 2018 model with a discount can sometimes cost less than a non-certified one with no warranty. That’s not a trick. That’s just smart math.

Some buyers think discounts only happen on new cars. But the real gold is often in used inventory. Dealers are desperate to move older models before the next year’s lineup hits. That’s why slow-moving inventory, vehicles that sit on a lot for months without selling often get slashed in price. A 2018 SUV with low demand? A sedan that didn’t sell well? Those are your best bets. Dealers will cut prices, throw in free maintenance, or even pay for your old car’s trade-in just to clear space.

There’s also the hidden layer: dealer incentives, money manufacturers give dealers to push certain models. These aren’t advertised. But if you ask, “Is there any manufacturer rebate or dealer cash on this model?”—you’ll often hear a yes. That’s cash in your pocket, not just a lower sticker price.

And don’t overlook insurance discounts for your 2018 car. Some models qualify for lower rates because of safety ratings or repair costs. A car with good crash scores and cheap parts? That’s a double discount—lower price at the lot, lower premiums afterward.

What you’ll find below are real strategies used by people who walked out of dealerships with thousands off the price. From email templates that work to the exact questions to ask when the salesperson says, “That’s our best price,” you’ll see how discounts aren’t given—they’re taken. And you’ll see which 2018 models were most likely to drop in price, why, and how to spot them before they’re gone.