Stokes Automotive and McKinnon Motors are out to prove now is the best time to purchase a new or used vehicle with a sales event Friday through March 31.

In addition to huge factory rebates and dealer discounts, both dealerships are advertising large inventories and that trade-in values are higher than ever.

The month-ending sales event will also give shoppers the opportunity to win $500.

Register before 11 a.m. March 31 at McKinnon Toyota, McKinnon Ford and Stokes Automotive to be eligible. Those interested can register once at each location for a total of three times. No purchase is necessary to register for the drawing.

The winner of the $500 cash prize will be contacted at noon March 31. You do not have to be present to win.

Though some potential buyers believe it could be difficult to obtain financing for car purchases, qualified buyers have several financing options, including local banks.

The stimulus package signed by President Barack Obama last month provides another good reason why it is the best time to purchase a vehicle.

The stimulus package allows people who purchase new vehicles to deduct sales taxes they pay on their 2009 federal tax returns. Families with adjusted gross incomes of less than $250,000 can qualify for the deduction.

Sales taxes on vehicles in Chilton County are 2.75 percent, making the tax deduction on a vehicle that costs $49,500 (maximum cost of vehicles covered under the stimulus plan) compute to $1,361.25.

Don’t miss Friday’s edition of The Clanton Advertiser for other special incentives available at McKinnon Motors and Stokes Automotives’ big sales event Friday through Tuesday. And, don’t miss an opportunity to win $500.