Understanding Vehicle Write-Offs: Categories A, B, S, and N Explained
Understanding Vehicle Write-Offs: Categories A, B, S, and N Explained
Insurance write-offs can be confusing, but understanding the categories is crucial when buying a used car. This guide explains what each category means and whether you should consider buying a written-off vehicle.
What is a Write-Off?
A vehicle is "written off" when an insurance company decides the cost of repairs exceeds the vehicle's value, or when it's too dangerous to repair. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) classifies write-offs into four categories.
The Four Categories Explained
Category A: Scrap Only
Severity: Most severe
Description: The vehicle has suffered extensive damage and must be crushed. No parts can be salvaged for reuse.
Can it be repaired?: No - illegal to repair or return to the road
Typical causes:
- Severe fire damage
- Complete structural failure
- Extensive flood damage
- Major collision damage
Buyer advice: You should never encounter a Cat A vehicle for sale. If you do, report it immediately.
Category B: Break for Parts
Severity: Severe
Description: The vehicle body shell must be crushed, but some parts can be salvaged and sold.
Can it be repaired?: No - the chassis cannot be reused
Salvageable parts:
- Engine components
- Gearbox
- Electrical parts
- Interior trim
- Wheels and tyres
Buyer advice: Never buy a Cat B vehicle. Only parts should be available for sale.
Category S: Structural Damage (formerly Cat C)
Severity: Moderate to severe
Description: The vehicle has sustained structural damage but can be professionally repaired and returned to the road.
Can it be repaired?: Yes - but requires professional repair
Structural damage includes:
- Chassis damage
- Crumple zone deformation
- Suspension mounting points
- Structural pillars
Repair requirements:
- Professional assessment
- Specialist repair work
- Re-registration with DVLA
- New MOT test
- Engineer's report
Value impact: Typically 20-40% less than equivalent undamaged vehicle
Buyer considerations:
- Only buy if professionally repaired
- Request full repair documentation
- Get independent inspection
- Check insurance costs (may be higher)
- Consider resale difficulties
Category N: Non-Structural Damage (formerly Cat D)
Severity: Minor to moderate
Description: The vehicle has sustained non-structural damage. Repairs are economically viable.
Can it be repaired?: Yes - often straightforward repairs
Common damage types:
- Cosmetic bodywork damage
- Electrical system faults
- Interior damage
- Mechanical issues
- Light collision damage
Repair requirements:
- Professional or competent DIY repair
- MOT test after repair
- Documentation of work completed
Value impact: Typically 10-25% less than equivalent undamaged vehicle
Buyer considerations:
- Easiest category to buy safely
- Verify repair quality
- Check all systems work correctly
- Ensure proper documentation
- Consider insurance implications
Should You Buy a Written-Off Vehicle?
Category S Vehicles
Pros:
- Significant cost savings
- Can be perfectly safe if properly repaired
- Good option for budget-conscious buyers
Cons:
- Higher insurance premiums
- Difficult to resell
- Potential hidden damage
- Requires thorough inspection
Recommendation: Only buy if:
- Professionally repaired with full documentation
- Independently inspected
- Significant discount (30%+)
- You plan to keep long-term
Category N Vehicles
Pros:
- Lower purchase price
- Often minor damage
- Easier to insure than Cat S
- Better resale potential
Cons:
- Still carries write-off stigma
- May have hidden issues
- Insurance may cost more
- Reduced resale value
Recommendation: Can be good value if:
- Damage was genuinely minor
- Repairs are well documented
- Price reflects the category
- You're comfortable with the history
How to Check Write-Off Status
1. HPI Check
The most comprehensive method:
- Shows write-off category
- Reveals insurance claims
- Checks stolen vehicle database
- Verifies mileage
2. Free Checks
Limited information available:
- DVLA vehicle enquiry service
- Insurance company databases
- MOT history (may show advisories)
3. CarCred Vehicle Check
Comprehensive report including:
- Write-off category
- Insurance history
- MOT records
- Mileage verification
- AI-powered risk assessment
Questions to Ask the Seller
- What was the extent of the damage?
- Who carried out the repairs?
- Can you provide repair receipts and photos?
- Has it been inspected since repair?
- Why was it written off? (economic vs. safety)
- Are there any ongoing issues?
- Can I have an independent inspection?
Insurance Considerations
Insuring a written-off vehicle:
Category S:
- Some insurers won't cover
- Premiums typically 20-50% higher
- May require engineer's report
- Limited to third-party only with some insurers
Category N:
- Most insurers will cover
- Premiums typically 10-30% higher
- Easier to find comprehensive cover
- Fewer restrictions
Tips:
- Declare the category honestly
- Shop around for quotes
- Consider specialist insurers
- Get quotes before buying
Red Flags to Watch For
- Seller doesn't mention write-off status
- No repair documentation
- Recent re-registration
- Unusually low price
- Reluctance to allow inspection
- Mismatched paint or panels
- Structural welding visible
- Dashboard warning lights
Legal Requirements
Sellers must:
- Disclose write-off status
- Provide accurate category information
- Not misrepresent the vehicle's history
Failure to disclose is illegal and may constitute fraud.
Conclusion
Write-off categories exist to protect buyers and ensure road safety. While Cat S and N vehicles can offer value, they require extra diligence.
Key takeaways:
- Never buy Cat A or B vehicles
- Cat S requires professional repair and inspection
- Cat N can be good value if damage was minor
- Always run an HPI check
- Get independent inspection
- Factor in insurance costs
- Ensure full documentation
Before buying any used vehicle, run a comprehensive check with CarCred to reveal its full history, including write-off status, insurance claims, and potential risks.