Encouragement for the FLA campaign comes from a survey by GMAC that found more retail buyers likely to use point-of-sale finance than personal loans.

The provider of retail finance for GM UK brands Vauxhall, Saab and Chevrolet says the survey suggests that 88% of people have made up their minds on how to fund a car purchase before reaching a dealership.

The 1,043 buyers surveyed were asked what would most influence a decision to take out showroom finance – 34% said it was their “personal experience” in the dealership.

Finance advisors’ expertise was given as the single most important factor by 22%, ahead of any research into the different finance options available.

Another 15% said benefits such as extended service and maintenance options would be most important.

Ed Paulat, GMAC’s UK managing director, said: “It might be difficult for direct loan providers to accept but retailer finance is extremely convenient and flexible and can compete with the best personal loan rates.”