Get access to the same vehicle valuation tool that dealers rely on. With Black Book, you’ll have insider data to accurately assess trade-in and purchase values—empowering you to negotiate the best possible deal.
Looking for the best lease deals this February? You’re in luck. Presidents’ Day 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best times to lease a new car, with low monthly payments, zero-down offers, and attractive incentives from top automakers.
With new car prices still near record highs, leasing is a great way to avoid the hidden costs of depreciation while keeping your monthly costs lower. In February, automakers are rolling out limited-time lease specials on some of the most popular SUVs, trucks, and sedans. Whether you’re interested in zero percent APR leases, cash discounts, or low down payment options, here are the best Presidents’ Day lease deals in 2025.
Note that manufacturer lease incentives exclude taxes and fees. Not all dealers participate.
Buick – Amazing Lease Offers For Current Lessees
General Motors is rolling out its best Presidents’ Day lease deals for the Buick brand. Here’s a look at the best offers in February. Note that to qualify for the best terms, most of these incentives require that you’re a current lessee of a GM vehicle.
Ford is rolling out some of the best lease deals this Presidents’ Day, with attractive offers across its lineup of trucks and SUVs. Whether you’re eyeing an EV, SUV, or a durable work truck, Ford’s February incentives offer serious savings. Here are the best Ford lease deals right now:
GMC is offering some of the best lease deals this Presidents’ Day, particularly for returning GM lessees. If you currently lease a GM model, you’ll find low-payment options on popular GMC trucks and SUVs.
Mazda’s stylish SUVs are available with affordable lease deals this February. While some offers require more cash upfront, these lease terms are among the lowest-priced options available this Presidents’ Day.
Toyota’s best-selling SUVs, trucks, and hybrids are available with low monthly lease payments, including some rare zero-down lease offers in select markets.
2025 Toyota Tacoma – Lease from $399/month for 36 months with $0 due at signing (select markets only, check Toyota.com for availability).
With huge lease incentives from Buick, Ford, GMC, Mazda, and Toyota, Presidents’ Day 2025 is one of the best times to lock in a low monthly payment on a new car, truck, or SUV. Be sure to compare offers in your area, as some of the best Presidents’ Day lease deals are available in select markets!
As Presidents’ Day 2025 approaches, you may be wondering if now is the right time to purchase a new vehicle. While year-end sales typically offer the biggest discounts, this year is shaping up differently. A lingering oversupply of 2024 models has pushed automakers to extend aggressive financing offers into February 2025. This means that Presidents’ Day car deals are some of the best we’ve seen in months – but only if you know where to look.
If you’re considering buying a new car in 2025, these top Presidents’ Day offers could help you score a great deal. Let’s dive in!
Acura Presidents’ Day Deals
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Seemingly out of nowhere, Honda and Acura have burst into the EV market with great success. Honda’s Prologue is one of the best-selling electric vehicles in America right now, and Acura’s ZDX is just as great, only a lot more luxurious. Right now, finance the 2024 Acura ZDX with 0% APR financing for 72 months.
Noticing a trend? Another top deal this Presidents’ Day is the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Also a top-seller, Ford’s sporty electric SUV is good for over 300 miles of range, and up to 480 horsepower. In February, Ford is offering 0% APR financing for 72 months on remaining 2024 Mustang Mach-Es. The 2024 F-150 Lightning also qualifies for this zero percent financing offer.
The best Honda Presidents’ Day sale is without a doubt the Honda Prologue, which features 0% APR financing for 72 months on remaining 2024s. But the deals don’t end there. The Honda Passport offers 1.9% APR for 60 months, and the Honda Accord is available with 2.9% APR financing for 60 months right now.
Considering these are some of the best-selling cars in America, these are excellent opportunities for savings.
In February 2025, Jeep has 47,000 leftover 2024s to sell. That’s a recipe for great deals and high negotiability. The best Presidents’ Day Jeep specials feature zero percent financing and big cash discounts. Right now, both the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offer 0% APR for 72 months.
Other Jeep models like the non-hybrid Grand Cherokee, Compass, and Gladiator are advertised with 0% APR for 36 months in February.
Two popular Nissan models are available with 0% APR financing for 60 months in February 2025. Both the Nissan Titan pickup truck and Nissan Rogue qualify for this incentive. If you’re considering going electric, the Nissan Ariya extends the zero percent financing offer out to 72 months.
Presidents’ Day 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best times to buy a new car, thanks to aggressive 0% APR financing offers on leftover 2024 models. Automakers like Acura, Ford, Honda, Jeep, and Nissan are rolling out deep discounts, making February a prime opportunity to secure a low monthly payment or avoid interest charges altogether.
Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient sedan, a capable SUV, or an electric vehicle, the key to maximizing savings is negotiating smart and acting fast. We offer dozens of free resources to help you master the art of car buying with confidence.
💡 Looking for premium car buying tools? Use CarEdge Insights to check local inventory levels, see dealer invoice pricing, and find the most negotiable cars and trucks near you. Ready to have a pro get you the best deal? CarEdge’s Car Buying Service takes care of everything – from negotiating pricing to securing financing – so you can drive away with confidence.
Buying a car is a big decision, and preparation is key. Whether you’re purchasing a brand-new ride or hunting for the best used car deal, having the right documents, financing, and negotiation strategy in place will save you time, money, and stress.
So, what do you need to buy a car? From essential paperwork to must-have research, this car buying checklist walks you through everything step by step. Let’s dive in.
New Car Buying Checklist: What You Need to Buy a Car
If you’re buying a brand-new car, you’ll want to ensure you have the right documents, financing, and tools before heading to the dealership.
Documents & Information You’ll Need
Before you buy a car, make sure you have:
◻ Valid Driver’s License – Required for test drives and financing.
◻ Proof of Insurance – Most dealerships require insurance before you drive off the lot. Call your provider to add the new car or get a quote beforehand.
◻ Credit Score – It’s smart to check your credit score before heading out to buy a car. Higher credit scores qualify for the lowest interest rates. Check yours for free with tools like Credit Karma or Experian.
◻ Proof of Income – Many lenders require recent pay stubs or tax returns, especially for lower credit scores.
◻ Proof of Residency – A document with your name and address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement, may be needed for financing approval.
◻ Trade-In Documents (If applicable) – Bring your vehicle title, loan payoff amount, and extra key fobs if you may be trading in your current car.
◻ Pre-Approval Letter (optional but recommended) – Getting pre-approved for an auto loan gives you negotiating power and prevents last-minute surprises.
Research & Preparation Checklist
Before signing the dotted line, do your homework:
◻ Set a Budget – Know the total cost of ownership, not just the monthly payment. Don’t forget insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs.
◻ Compare Prices – Use tools like CarEdge Insights to see what others are paying for the same model in your area.
◻ Review the Warranty – Know what’s covered and for how long. Some warranties are better than others. Consider an extended warranty for added peace of mind.
◻ Shopping EVs? Know What to Expect – EV ownership is different. Review our free EV Buyer’s Guide for all of the details.
✅ At the Dealership: What to Watch Out For
◻ Beware of Markups & Add-Ons – Dealerships often add unnecessary extras like nitrogen-filled tires, VIN etching, and “protection plans.” You don’t have to agree to these add-ons!
◻ Negotiate the Out-the-Door Price, Not Monthly Payments – Dealers love to talk in terms of monthly payments to hide extra costs. Don’t fall for it! Focus on the total out-the-door price instead.
◻ Review the Loan Terms Carefully – Avoid 84-month car loans that keep you upside down for years. Even 72 month loans increase your risk of negative equity, which can make it hard to sell your car in the future.
◻ Don’t Sign Until You Understand Everything – Take your time. Have a close look at any contracts and agreements. Ask questions. Walk away if needed.
Used Car Buying Checklist: What You Need to Buy a Used Car
Buying a used car requires extra steps to avoid hidden problems and costly surprises. Here’s everything you need to check before making a purchase.
Documents & Information You’ll Need
◻ Valid Driver’s License – Required for test drives and financing.
◻ Proof of Insurance – You’ll need to insure the car before taking it home.
◻ Credit Score & Pre-Approval (If financing) – Be familiar with your latest credit score before shopping. The best credit scores qualify for the lowest rates. Compare rates from local banks and credit unions before you head to the dealership. Big banks rarely have the best auto loan rates.
◻ Method of Payment – Have a plan for how you will make your down payment if you decide to purchase a vehicle. There are limits to how much you can charge to a credit card, usually less than $5,000.
◻ Trade-In Documents (If applicable) – Have your title, loan payoff amount, and registration ready.
Used Car Research & Pre-Purchase Checklist
Don’t get burned by a bad used car. Do this first:
◻ Check the Vehicle History Report – Use Carfax or AutoCheck to check for accidents, title issues, and odometer fraud.
◻ Look Up Market Value – Use tools like CarEdge Insights to compare prices and see negotiability.
◻ Verify the Car’s Title – Avoid cars with salvage, rebuilt, or lemon titles.
◻ Review Maintenance Records – A well-documented service history is a good sign of a reliable car. This is especially useful when buying from a private seller.
◻ Check for Recalls – Use NHTSA.gov to check for unfixed safety recalls.
Used Car Test Drive & Inspection Checklist
Test driving isn’t just about comfort – it’s about catching problems:
◻ Check for Odd Noises – Listen for knocking, grinding, or whining sounds.
◻ Check for dashboard warning lights – Never buy a car with warning lights on. This indicates that repairs are urgently needed. If tire pressure is low, make sure the warning light turns off once air is added.
◻ Test Acceleration & Braking – Make sure the car accelerates smoothly and brakes firmly. Brake replacement costs hundreds of dollars.
◻ Inspect for Rust or Frame Damage – Look under the car and in wheel wells for rust spots. Once rust starts, it’s hard to stop it.
◻ Check Tire Wear – Uneven tire wear may indicate alignment or suspension issues.
◻ Test All Features – AC, heat, lights, windows, seat adjustment, infotainment system – make sure everything works.
◻ Remember to get a Pre-Purchase Inspection with an independent mechanic before you buy. It’s a hassle, but could save you thousands of dollars in unexpected repair costs.
✅ At the Dealership or Private Sale: Final Steps
◻ Negotiate the Out-the-Door Price – Use market data to get the best deal.
◻ Review the Bill of Sale – Ensure it includes price, VIN, mileage, and all seller details.
◻ Complete the Title Transfer & Registration – Each state has different requirements. If you’re buying a used car from a private seller, consult your state’s DMV website for instructions.
◻Finalize Financing & Insurance – Ensure loan terms are correct before signing, including the APR and loan length. Even during the final steps of the car buying process, it’s not too late to correct mistakes or tricky dealer add-ons.
The cost of buying a new car could soon get even higher. With tariffs on Canadian and Mexican auto imports set to take effect on March 4, new car prices in the U.S. are set to rise to new records. Here’s a look at how automotive industry analysts expect President Trump’s tariffs to impact U.S. car prices in 2025.
Tariffs on Canada and Mexico Take Affect March 4
President Trump has announced new tariffs on imported vehicles, car parts, and other goods will begin this month. Starting March 4, a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico will take effect, along with a 10% duty on imports from China. The administration claims the tariffs are intended to curb illegal drug trafficking and immigration. However, the move could severely disrupt the auto industry, where nearly 90% of vehicle exports from Mexico and Canada are destined for the U.S.
Industry experts are sounding the alarm. Flavio Volpe, president of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, warns that the tariffs could bring auto production to a halt. “At 25%, absolutely nobody in our business is profitable by a long shot,” he said.
With supply chains at risk, U.S. automakers could feel the impact almost immediately. Car buyers in 2025 may need to act before MSRPs rise or adjust their budgets to account for potential price hikes. Here’s what drivers should know about the impact of tariffs on their wallet.
How Will Tariffs Affect Car Prices in 2025?
If fully enacted, the tariffs will add an estimated $60 billion in costs to the auto industry, according to AlixPartners research. Much of that cost is expected to be passed on to consumers. With the average new car price hovering near record highs, an extra $3,000 per vehicle could push some buyers out of the market entirely. In March 2025, the average new car price sits at $48,641. With the added costs of tariffs, new car prices are on track to surpass $50,000 for the first time.
For automakers, higher costs will likely result in production slowdowns and job losses. Manufacturing hubs in Detroit, Ontario, and across Mexico could see thousands of layoffs as companies struggle to absorb the added costs.
10% Tariff on Imports From China to Hurt American OEMs
President Trump’s decision to impose a 10% tariff on Chinese imports will have a limited direct impact on U.S. vehicle sales. However, the tariffs will significantly affect auto parts, potentially driving up already high vehicle prices for consumers. The impacts on auto parts are likely to drive auto insurance rates higher, too.
According to the U.S. International Trade Commission, the U.S. imports between $9 billion and $10 billion in auto parts and accessories each year.
Among automakers, Ford and General Motors will be the hardest hit. The biggest impact will be on Ford’s Lincoln Nautilus and GM’s Buick Envision. Together they made up 95% of the 88,515 China-made vehicles sold in the U.S. last year.
“It’s mainly GM and Ford that are really hit from a volume standpoint,” said Jeff Schuster, vice president of automotive research at GlobalData, in an interview with CNBC. “Our domestic guys are the ones taking the brunt of this, at least for full vehicles … but it can be muted to some extent.”
Volvo and luxury EV maker Polestar also produce vehicles in China, and will be subject to import tariffs. However, the impact of tariffs on Chinese imports will be small compared to that of the tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada. According to GlobalData, new cars made in China represented just 0.6% of the roughly 16 million new vehicles sold in 2024 in the U.S.
Automakers Hit Hardest by Tariffs
If tariffs are fully enacted against imports from Mexico and Canada, Automotive News reports that several automakers will be affected. A few big American automakers will face rising costs from the new 10% tariff on imports from China. These are the cars likely to see rising prices due to tariffs in 2025:
Audi: Volkswagen Group’s Audi plant in Mexico builds the Audi Q5. The factory produced nearly 176,000 cars in 2023, many of which were exported to the United States.
BMW: The BMW plant in San Luis Potosi, Mexico produces the 3 Series, 2 Series Coupe, and M2, with nearly all output going to the U.S.
Ford: With three plants in Mexico, Ford exported nearly 196,000 vehicles to the U.S. and Canada in the first half of 2024 alone, with 90% of those going to the U.S. Ford also has a plant in Oakville, Canada. The Detroit automaker will also be impacted by the 10% tariff on imports from China. The Lincoln Nautilus luxury SUV is manufactured in China, and will be subject to new import tariffs.
General Motors: GM imported roughly 750,000 vehicles from Canada and Mexico in 2024. This includes key models like the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, and electric versions of the Equinox and Blazer. GM’s Buick Envision is largely manufactured in China. Envisions that are destined for the U.S. market will be subject to the new 10% tariff on imports from China.
Honda: 80% of Honda’s Mexican-made vehicles are exported to the U.S. and has warned that continued tariffs may force a production shift.
Kia: Under the Hyundai Motor Group umbrella, Kia operates a Mexican factory producing its own vehicles and some Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs.
Mazda: In 2023, Mazda exported around 120,000 vehicles from Mexico to the U.S. Mazda has suggested that it may reconsider future investments due to U.S. tariffs.
Nissan: Nissan manufactures the Sentra, Versa, and Kicks in Mexico, with nearly 505,000 vehicles built in the first nine months of 2024.
Stellantis: FCA (now under Stellantis) operates assembly plants in Saltillo, Mexico (Ram pickups and vans) and Toluca, Mexico (Jeep Compass). Stellantis also has plants in Ontario, Canada.
Toyota: In 2025, Toyota builds its Tacoma pickup truck exclusively in Mexico, selling more than 230,000 units in the U.S. in 2023.
Volkswagen: VW Group operates a large factory in Puebla, Mexico. This is where VW produces the Jetta, Tiguan, and Taos for U.S. export. In Canada, VW is investing $4.9 billion to build a battery factory in St. Thomas, Ontario, set to start production in 2027.
What Tariffs Means for Car Buyers
With new vehicle prices already at historic highs, adding another $3,000 to the price tag could drive even more consumers toward used cars or force them to hold onto their vehicles longer. Dealers may also see a slowdown in sales as affordability becomes a growing concern.
Automotive repair costs will feel the impacts of the new 10% tariff on certain imports from China. Many electrical component for today’s collision repair are sourced from the Chinese market. As a result, auto insurance premiums are set to rise in 2025.
A Blow to the Auto Industry
The auto industry is one of the most interconnected sectors in North America. Car parts often cross borders multiple times before a final vehicle reaches the consumer. The new tariffs disrupt decades of trade agreements and could lead to long-term shifts in manufacturing.
While some automakers, like BMW, have committed to continuing investment in Mexican production, others are scrambling to adjust supply chains. In what could be a longer-lasting impact, some are reevaluating their manufacturing strategies.
Trump has suggested that the tariffs will push automakers to bring production back to the U.S. However, industry experts argue that shifting manufacturing isn’t so simple. Building new plants and establishing new supply lines takes years. In the meantime, consumers are the ones who will feel the pinch.
General Motors, Ford, and other automakers have already stated that they won’t move production unless they see clear long-term benefits. Instead, they intend to mitigate the immediate impact of tariffs through supply chain adjustments and pricing strategies.
The Bottom Line for Car Shoppers
Tariffs on auto imports from Canada, Mexico, and China are likely to send car prices higher in 2025. This all comes at a time when new car prices are already near all-time highs. If you’re in the market for a new car, staying informed and being strategic could save you thousands.
CarEdge’s Take: If you’re considering buying any car in 2025, it’s worth watching how these tariffs play out. If prices rise sharply, buyers may want to consider negotiating harder on new cars, exploring used car options, or waiting for potential policy changes.
Believe it or not, February is one of the slowest months of the year for car sales. The rush of year-end deals has faded, and the spring car-buying season hasn’t kicked off yet. However, for shoppers in search of big savings, this lull can work in your favor. Dealerships are eager to move inventory, especially if you know where to look. If you’re ready to negotiate, February can be one of the best times to land a great deal on a new car.
Here’s where to find the best car deals in February 2025.
Shop Leftover 2024 Models for the Biggest Discounts
That means more than a quarter of all new cars for sale today (26%)are leftovers from last year – far more than usual for this time of year.
While this inventory pileup is a problem for automakers, it’s good news for car buyers. Dealers need to clear out these older models to make room for the latest 2025 arrivals, and that means bigger discounts, stronger incentives, and more room for negotiation.
Some of the best deals in February 2025 will be found on overstocked 2024 models with: ✅ 0% APR financing offers ✅ Cash discounts ✅ Lease specials well below market value
To maximize savings, focus on models with high inventory levels and longer days on the lot. The more desperate the dealer is to move a car, the better deal you can negotiate. CarEdge Insights is a great tool to check a vehicle’s inventory levels and days on the lot in your area.
The Most Negotiable New Cars in February 2025
Here’s a look at some of the cars, trucks, and SUVs with the most remaining 2024 inventory right now, and therefore, the highest negotiability:
With a surplus of leftover 2024 models still sitting on dealer lots, February is a prime opportunity to negotiate a great deal on a new car. Whether you’re eyeing 0% APR financing, big cash discounts, or unbeatable lease specials, the key to maximizing savings is knowing which cars have the highest inventory and the most negotiability.
At CarEdge, we empower car buyers with the tools and expertise needed to shop smarter and save more. Use CarEdge Insights to see real-time inventory levels, dealer pricing trends, and hidden negotiation opportunities in your area. Looking for a hands-off approach? Our CarEdge Car Buying Service takes care of everything for you—from negotiation to delivery, ensuring you get the best deal without the stress.
States eligibile for below invoice pricing and 100% free delivery:
Alabama, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Delaware, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
What if I don’t live in these states? If you're outside these areas, don't worry! We're committed to making sure everyone can enjoy our deals. Although the delivery fee will not be waived, you can still purchase from CarEdge and either pay for shipping or coordinate pickup at a participating dealer.
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Our concierge service costs $999 plus an optional shipping fee (based on distance or pick-up).
To get started, pay the one-time payment of $999 and a CarEdge concierge will start by negotiating the vehicles in your favorites.
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