Contents
In short
- Cat S: structural damage, repaired and back on the road. Cat N: non-structural damage.
- Write-offs are usually cheaper, but resale value and insurance are affected.
- The quality of the repair matters more than the category.
- Ask for photos of the damage and invoices for the repair.
- Cat A and Cat B cars must never return to the road.
What the categories mean
- Cat A: scrap only, no parts can be reused.
- Cat B: the body must be crushed; some parts can be salvaged. It can never return to the road.
- Cat S: structural damage (chassis, crumple zones, suspension mounts). It can be repaired and re-registered.
- Cat N: non-structural damage (cosmetic, electrical, trim). It can be repaired and driven.
An insurer writes a car off when the repair would cost too much compared with its value, not always because the damage is severe. A minor bump on an old car can be enough for a Cat N.
The real risks
- Poor repairs: cheap parts, misaligned panels, airbags not replaced.
- Insurance: some insurers charge more or refuse; always get a quote before buying.
- Resale value: expect a write-off to sell for noticeably less than a clean car.
- Hidden category: some sellers don't mention it. Ask directly and check the history before paying.
What to check before buying
- Photos of the damage before repair: they show what was hit.
- Invoices for the repair, ideally from a recognised body shop.
- Panel gaps and paint around the damaged area.
- Airbag and warning lights: all must light up and go out at start-up.
- Even tyre wear and straight driving: misalignment after a structural repair shows up here.
Written by
The Carvizia team
Every day we analyse used car listings: engines, known faults, maintenance and market value. Our guides bring together what to check before you buy, without jargon.
About usFrequently asked questions
Is a Cat N car safe?
It can be: the damage wasn't structural. The safety depends on how well it was repaired, so ask for photos and invoices.
Do I have to tell my insurer it's a Cat S?
Yes. Not disclosing the category can invalidate your insurance.
How much cheaper is a write-off?
It varies with the category, the damage and the model; expect a clear discount compared with a clean car, which you'll also face when you sell.