Vehicle information expert HPI is urging used car buyers to make sure they think about the depreciation of a car when considering a purchase.

This could save them thousands of pounds when it's time to sell it on.

Comparing a car's original and current price will give an indication of its depreciation rate. The newer the vehicle the steeper the devaluation and the older it gets the more it is likely to slow down.

Popular, well maintained or cult vehicles can hold or even increase their value if bought prudently.

"Depreciation can be a ˜hidden cost" and buyers who forget to take it into account could be in for a nasty surprise when they come to sell and find its value has plummeted," explains Nicola Johnson Consumer Services Manager for HPI.

Careful buyers will do their research to find out the history of the vehicle as well as how much the vehicle tax will be, the CO2 emission levels and fuel economy which is information that HPI provide as standard with an HPI Check.

Mike Hind of CAP - the used car pricing experts, said: "Depreciation is the biggest single cost in owning a car and it can vary massively between brands.

"Understanding what your intended purchase will be worth in the future will help you avoid a potentially costly mistake."

For further information on HPI checks visit www.hpicheck.com or call 0845 300 8905.