NBC NEWS - Despite the woes of Chrysler and GM, a new survey says 72 percent of consumers would buy an American-made car or truck.

Fifty-five percent of those polled said they would buy their next vehicle within the next two years.  But what about right now, is it time to go car shopping?

Lemon law attorney Bob Silverman says regardless of your credit, now is a good time to buy a new car.  Silverman says there are plenty of incentives out there to attract buyers who would otherwise not purchase a vehicle, but with both GM and Chrysler in financial struggle, many buyers are worried about the warranties.

"If consumers are worried about these warranties, the parts will be made for these cars regardless of what happens to the manufacturer," said Kevin Mezzacola of the Car Dealers Association of greater Philadelphia.

So how do you get the very best deal?  Do your research, contact as many dealers as you can to see who has what and what kind of prices they're talking about, and when you're ready then head to the lot.

Phil Reed of Edmunds.com says the buyer has all the power because they can walk out the door at any time.

"You know if you come back in a week and the car is still there you can get an even better deal because you know they haven't gotten any offers and they're going to be very happy to see you," said Reed.

"An educated consumer is the best consumer out there," said Mezzacola.