The latest USA Today/Gallup survey finds that of the 24% of Americans who considered buying a car in the last six months but didn't, "they were most likely to cite broad economic concerns -- rather than the plight of the U.S. automakers -- as reasons for their decision."

Of the five possible reasons offered, the uncertainty of the future of U.S. automakers was chosen the least amount of times. Leading the way was the economic recession and job security concerns.

Just 25% of those who in general would consider buying an American car said they would be less willing to buy one because of the struggles of the three U.S. automakers. The rest said it would not affect their decision.