Insurance write-off categories are confusing, and they're often explained badly. This is a plain-English guide to what each one means, and which cars we buy.
Cat S
A Category S car has been written off by an insurer after damage to its structural frame or chassis, for example a bent chassis leg or damaged crumple zone. It can be professionally repaired and returned to the road, and the write-off record stays on the car's history for good. We buy Cat S cars, repaired or unrepaired. Category S replaced the old Category C in October 2017.
Cat N
A Category N car has been written off by an insurer but has no structural damage. The damage might be cosmetic (panels, bumpers, lights), electrical, or mechanical, and the insurer decided repair costs were too high compared with the car's value. A Cat N car can be repaired and used on the road, and the record stays on its history. We buy Cat N cars, repaired or unrepaired. Category N replaced the old Category D in October 2017.
Cat C & D
Before October 2017, repairable write-offs were recorded as Category C (repair costs more than the car's value) or Category D (repair costs significant compared with the value). The categories were based on cost rather than the type of damage. Many cars on the road still carry these older markers, and we buy them in the same way as Cat S and Cat N.
Cat A & B
A Category A car must be scrapped completely, and a Category B car's body shell must be crushed, although some parts can be salvaged. Neither can legally return to the road. If your car is Cat A or Cat B, tell us up front: we'll be honest about whether we can help, rather than waste your time.
Retain
When an insurer writes a car off, it usually pays out and takes the car. For Cat S and Cat N, many insurers let you keep it instead, with a deduction from the payout (often called retaining or buying back the salvage). Check with your insurer what they offer and how it affects your claim. If you keep the car, you can sell it to us as it is.
Not written off
Not every damaged car has a write-off category. If you didn't claim, or the damage is mechanical rather than from an accident, the car simply has a fault. Engine and gearbox trouble, failed MOTs, electrical faults and flood damage that never went through insurance are all part of what we buy. Just tell us what happened.
This page is a plain-English guide, not legal or insurance advice. Talk to your insurer about your claim and options before deciding what to do with a written-off car.
Yes. A Cat S car can be professionally repaired and returned to the road. The write-off record stays on the car's history.
Cat N means no structural damage was recorded, whereas Cat S means there was structural damage. Both are repairable, and we buy both.
If your insurer wrote it off, they will tell you the category. A vehicle history check will also show it. If you're not sure, tell us the registration and we can help.
Yes, repaired or unrepaired. If it has been repaired, any photos or invoices from the repair help.
Wait for your insurer's decision first, so you know your options. Then send us the details.