Around 5.35 million people are planning to buy a used car in the six months leading to the end of February 2008, with the average intended spend increasing by £600 compared to the previous six months, research by Sainsbury’s Car Loans has revealed.

The study, carried out among 2032 respondents, showed around 50% weren’t planning to haggle, or were only planning to haggle slightly. As a result, buyers were planning to spend £24.87bn collectively during the six month period, a 12% hike.

Steven Baillie, manager of Sainsbury’s Loans, said: “Sellers need to make sure they not only research the market value of their vehicle to ensure they get a good price, but that they have shopped around for the best finance package when they come to buy a new one.

“Purchasers should remember to haggle when negotiating any car purchase to secure the best deal. Despite the fact that haggling can save the buyer hundreds or even thousands of pounds, many of us are reluctant to do this.”