UNDERSTAND DAMAGE HISTORY
A write-off marker changes the questions you should ask. Find out the category, what was repaired and whether the car is safe and right for you.
Car Check
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THE CATEGORIES
What does the category mean?
Insurers use categories to describe whether a vehicle can be repaired and returned to the road. GOV.UK sets out the current categories.
Category S
Structural damage. It can be used again if repaired to a roadworthy condition. Ask for repair evidence and an inspection.
Category N
Non-structural damage. It can return to use after a roadworthy repair, but the details still matter.
Categories A & B
These must not return to the road as complete vehicles. Category A is crushed; B has its body shell crushed.
BEFORE YOU BUY
Ask to see the repair trail.
Request photographs, invoices and details of who carried out the work. Compare panel fit, tyres and handling on a test drive, and consider an independent inspection. A category describes the insurer’s decision, not the quality of a later repair.
01 Confirm the category
02 Review repair evidence
03 Inspect independently
THE DETAILS
Write-off questions.
Can a Category S or N car be driven again?
Yes, if it has been repaired to a roadworthy condition. Check the repair evidence and make your own assessment before buying.
Does a clear report rule out past damage?
No. Damage might not have led to an insurance write-off, and records can be incomplete. Inspect the vehicle carefully.
Should I buy a written-off car?
That depends on the damage, the repair, your insurance and the price. Get enough evidence to make an informed decision, and walk away if the seller cannot explain it.