PRESS ASSOCIATION -- The number of people looking to buy a new or used car is on the decline, according to a survey.
Around 5.56 million people are planning to change their motor over the next six months - a 22% dip on the March-August 2011 period.
The number planning to buy in September 2011 to February 2012 is also 28% down on those who planned a change of car in the period September 2010 to February 2011, the survey by Sainsbury's Finance found.
Those intending to make a purchase over the next six months are planning to spend around £40.2 billion, compared with £51.3 billion for the March-August 2011 period.
This is the first time since September 2009 that Sainsbury's Finance surveys have shown a reduction in the anticipated collective spending on cars.
The South East is the region where the most motorists are planning a car purchase, with 13% intending to buy a car in the next six months.
In contrast, just 6% of Scottish car owners are looking to change their vehicle.
Those in the South East plan to spend the most - a total of £8.2 billion - while car owners in the North East intend to spend the least - £1.2 billion.
Sainsbury's Finance head of loans Steven Baillie said: "After a steady increase in our index for two years, this decline is a real indication of how the economy is affecting people's car buying plans.
"There has been a significant drop-off in the number of people who intend to purchase a car in the next six months, which may give those still planning to change their car a real opportunity to flex their bargaining power as the industry competes for custom."