The war in the Middle East has been cited as a reason for purchase delays, according to the Cazoo & Motors Consumer Insight Panel survey which polled the views of 2,008 car buyers.
The survey found 38% are delaying their next purchase, with 56% attributing uncertainty over the war as one of their reasons.
Lucy Tugby, Marketing Director of Cazoo & Motors, said: “Uncertainty over the impact the war in the Middle East will have on the UK is understandably prompting some buyers to put their next car on hold until there is more clarity.
“It is not unusual for big ticket purchases like cars to be delayed in times of uncertainty and this is being compounded by rising energy and fuel prices. However, it is encouraging to note an increase in the number of buyers planning to purchase a car in the next 12 months, compared to last year.
“This makes it even more important for dealers to factor in affordability and cost of ownership in their conversations with customers and highlight fuel efficiency whenever it is appropriate.”
The average claimed delay for all buyers is 8.5 months but this drops to 7.5 months for those referencing the war.
However, 45% of buyers are expecting to purchase within the next 12 months compared with 39% in May.
