Drivers in the market for a new car may find that now is the best time to buy.
Summer clearances are in full swing, with cash, lease and financing deals on the table from most automakers. The average discount off the sticker price for 2013 models is 13 percent, according to Edmunds.com. New 2014 models, in comparison, have a typical discount of 7 to 8 percent.
Wait until September, and there's a chance of getting a slightly better deal, but at the expense of choice. "The manufacturers all want to move these vehicles," said Jeremy Acevedo, an analyst at Edmunds. "Inventory is going to start dwindling very quickly."
Aside from perfecting your timing, getting a great deal requires comparing the offers to see which best fits your finances and lifestyle.
—By CNBC.com's Kelli B. Grant. Follow her on Twitter @KelliGrant.