You need some new wheels, and you’ve had your eye on a sweet new ride. The only problem is, Mercury is retrograde. Sure, the whole “Mercury retrograde” thing might sound like nonsense to you. How could a planet’s apparent change in motion possibly affect your life?
Well, when the messenger planet Mercury appears to “reverse” in the sky (moves in a backward motion,) communication mix-ups and tech glitches run rampant. Buying a big-ticket item like a car during this time is just asking for trouble. And no, I am not joking.
What Is Mercury Retrograde and Why Does It Matter?
Mercury retrograde is when the planet Mercury looks like it’s moving backwards from our view here on Earth. This happens about 3-4 times a year and lasts for around 3 weeks each time.
Some people believe that when Mercury goes retrograde, it can mess with how we act and cause some problems. Astrologers think it impacts things here by making us more forgetful or late.
What does this mean for you? You might mix up your schedule and miss some appointments. Papers could get lost more easily. And your new or used car might start acting up after you drive it off the lot!
Mercury retrograde is also thought to affect communication tech, travel, and transportation. Since Mercury rules those kinds of things, they may have more glitches or delays during one of its backward motions. So you’ll want to double-check your plans and have some extra patience.
Can You Buy A Car When Mercury Is In Retrograde?
You’re probably excited about buying that new car. But if you can help it, you may want to hold off until Mercury goes direct again. When that planet is in retrograde, it can cause all sorts of hassles with purchases related to short trips and vehicles. Things might break down faster than usual or have other problems.
Your dream ride will still be there to buy in a few weeks. Trust me, it’s better to avoid potential headaches and wait it out rather than risk regretting the purchase during Mercury retrograde.
What To Expect If You’re Buying A Car During Mercury Retrograde?
Basically, expect the unexpected. Miscommunications, delays, and mix-ups are more likely. The salesperson may forget important details or paperwork. Your loan could be denied due to errors. The vehicle itself may need unexpected repairs soon after driving off the lot.
To avoid headaches and hassle, consider waiting until Mercury goes direct to make such an important purchase. But if buying during retrograde can’t be avoided, take extra precautions.
- Double-check all paperwork.
- Get promises and estimates in writing.
- Find a reliable mechanic to perform a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle.
- Make sure your loan is pre-approved before you start shopping.
While the effects of Mercury retrograde are controversial, being extra vigilant certainly can’t hurt. At the very least, going in with realistic expectations about potential delays or complications can help reduce stress and frustration. Whenever possible, waiting until the stars align in your favor is the smartest strategy.
The Risks of Making Big Purchases During Mercury Retrograde
As tempting as a new set of wheels might seem, buying a car during Mercury retrograde is risky business.
Why chance it? During retrograde, there’s a higher chance of miscommunications and mistakes. The sales contract could contain errors you don’t catch until later. Or the vehicle history report might miss something important. Do you really want to find out if the hard vehicle you just bought was in a major accident?
Mechanical and electronic issues also tend to crop up more often when Mercury is retrograde. You might end up with a lemon that requires costly repairs soon after driving it off the lot. Not exactly the dream car you envisioned!
Delays and frustrations are also parred for the course. Financing may fall through at the last minute, or there could be issues with the registration or title paperwork. The whole process can end up dragging on for weeks.
Rather than rushing into a new purchase, use the retrograde period for research and planning.
Tips For Safely Buying A Car During Mercury Retrograde
If you absolutely must buy during this time, here are some tips to make the process go as smoothly as possible:
Do Your Research Ahead of Time
Study vehicle models, options, and pricing so you go in well-informed. Check vehicle history reports and know a fair price range for the specific car you want. That way, you’ll avoid getting taken advantage of in the heat of the moment.
Get Preapproved For An Auto Loan
Know exactly how much you can spend so you don’t end up with a payment you can’t afford. Dealers often offer special low-interest rates during retrograde periods to lure in customers, so double-check that the terms are actually a good deal.
Don’t Buy On Impulse
It’s easy to make a hasty decision when Mercury is retrograde that you later regret. Take time to think over any offer, and don’t feel pressure to buy on the spot. Go home and sleep on it if needed. Buying a vehicle is a big commitment, so make sure you’ve explored all options before signing the final paperwork. Do. Not. Make. Mistakes!
Review Contracts Carefully
With Mercury retrograde, important details can be missed or obscured. Carefully go over all financing contracts, purchase agreements, warranties, and service contracts with the dealer to ensure everything is as agreed and in your best interest. Ask questions about anything that seems off or that you don’t fully understand before signing on the dotted line.
Consider Other Options
If possible, consider alternatives to buying a new car during retrograde, like leasing a vehicle short-term or using a car-sharing service. That way, you can avoid the frustration and hassle until Mercury turns direct again and communication becomes clearer. Your dream car will still be there, and you’ll be in a better state of mind to get the best possible deal.
Read this: Best Days of Week To Buy A Car, According To Feng Shui
Mercury Retrograde 2024 & 2025 Dates
- August 5, 2024 to August 28, 2024
- November 26, 2024 to December 15, 2024
- March 14, 2025 to April 7, 2025
- July 17, 2025 to August 11, 2025
- November 9, 2025 to November 29, 2025
Patience Brings Roses
Buying a big-ticket item like a car during this time is just asking for trouble. Delays, confusion, and unexpected problems are par for the course. Unless you have no other choice, it’s best to avoid making major purchases or life changes when Mercury is retrograde.
Buying smart is always the best policy. And when it comes to making major life decisions during Mercury retrograde, like purchasing a vehicle, smart means waiting until the stars align in your favor once more. Patience pays off!
Once Mercury goes direct again, you’ll be in a much better frame of mind to find the perfect new set of wheels. This retrograde, too, shall pass!
