Automakers were hit hard by slumping car sales this year, but local car dealerships say they?ve had a big influx of post-Christmas shoppers.

A number of dealerships hoped red tag sales would help unload cars by the year?s end. Many in the crowds said they were shopping around, not necessarily buying.

?Everybody is cautious on how they spend their money,? says Holmdel resident Ed Larsen, who was out visiting dealerships. ?That?s one of the reasons I came with my sister ? to make sure she gets a better deal.?