Overall, 40 percent of American consumers are delaying buying a new car, according to latest Auto Pulse survey conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. Respondents who said they are considering the purchase of a used car exclusively (75 percent) and those planning to buy a new car (63 percent) were far more likely to report a delayed new-car purchase than consumers who do not expect to be in the car market soon (31 percent).

Consumers are putting off buying a new or used vehicle because

Current vehicle is in good shape	72%
Concerned about the weak economy	61
Vehicles have become too expensive	49
Vehicle financing is too expensive	41
Waiting for incentives to get better	31
Concerned about losing job, or have lost job	29
Expect vehicle prices to drop	28
Vehicle financing is difficult to obtain	26
Concerned the brand may go bankrupt	16

The random, nationwide survey found drivers reporting a median of 23.1 mpg with their current vehicles, though they have higher expectations when it comes time to purchase. In-market car shoppers sought just 25.2 mpg in their next ride, though those who aren’t yet ready to buy will expect 30.0 mpg.

Clearly the economy has a limiting effect on major purchases, though consumers may also be looking for more fuel-efficient choices. Based on other data collected, when they are ready to buy, they will also place a high value on quality and safety, as well.

For more insights into car-buying today and American consumer behavior, read the full Auto Pulse report.

—Jeff Bartlett with the Consumer Reports National Research Center