When an insurance company declares a car a "write-off," it doesn't always mean the vehicle is destined for the scrapyard. Understanding the four write-off categories helps you make informed decisions when buying used.
The Four Write-Off Categories
Since October 2017, write-offs have been classified into four categories based on the type and severity of damage:
Category A – Scrap Only
What it means: The car must be crushed. No parts can be salvaged.
Typical causes:
- Severe fire damage
- Catastrophic accident damage
- Vehicles dangerous to break for parts
Can it return to the road? Never. Category A vehicles are destroyed completely.
Category B – Body Shell Must Be Crushed
What it means: The main body/shell must be crushed, but parts can be removed and sold.
Typical causes:
- Significant structural damage
- Multiple safety-critical areas compromised
- Damage making repair uneconomical and potentially unsafe
Can it return to the road? No. The shell is destroyed. Parts may appear on other vehicles.
Category S – Structural Damage (Previously Cat C)
What it means: The car has structural damage but can be repaired and returned to the road.
Structural damage includes:
- Chassis damage
- Crumple zone damage
- Frame damage
- Pillar damage
Can it return to the road? Yes, after professional repair. Must pass any required inspections.
Impact on value: Typically 20-40% reduction compared to clean equivalent.
Category N – Non-Structural Damage (Previously Cat D)
What it means: The car has non-structural damage and can be repaired.
Non-structural damage includes:
- Panels and bodywork
- Electronics and wiring
- Engine and mechanical components
- Interior damage
- Cosmetic damage
Can it return to the road? Yes, once repairs are complete.
Impact on value: Typically 15-30% reduction compared to clean equivalent.
Why Are Cars Written Off?
A car is written off when the cost of repair exceeds a certain percentage of its value – typically 50-60%. This means:
- A £20,000 car with £12,000 damage might be repaired
- A £5,000 car with £3,000 damage might be written off
This is why older, lower-value cars are more likely to be written off for relatively minor damage.
How to Check Write-Off Status
Write-off history doesn't appear on free DVLA checks. You need a vehicle history check that accesses insurance industry databases.
Green Flag's vehicle check reveals:
- Whether the car has been written off
- The write-off category
- When it was written off
- Salvage auction history
Should You Buy a Write-Off?
Potential Advantages
- Significant cost savings
- May have been professionally repaired to high standard
- Good for mechanically-minded buyers
Potential Disadvantages
- Unknown repair quality
- Higher insurance premiums
- Harder to sell
- Reduced resale value forever
- Some finance companies won't lend against write-offs
The Bottom Line
Write-off categories exist to inform buyers about a vehicle's history. Cat S and Cat N cars can be good value if properly repaired, but you need to go in with your eyes open.
Always check a car's write-off status before buying. Run a vehicle history check for just £9.99.
