Car Write-Off Check Guides
A written-off car is one an insurer decided was too badly damaged to repair economically or safely. Many are later fixed and sold on, which is perfectly legal. The problem comes when a seller stays quiet about that past, because a hidden write-off is one of the most common nasty surprises in the used market.
Knowing the category before you buy changes everything. Our free car write-off check reveals whether a vehicle was recorded as Cat A, B, S or N, with the date and insurer where available. The guides below explain what each category means, which cars can legally return to the road, and how a write-off affects safety, insurance and resale value.
Explore Our Write-Off Guides
How to Check If a Car Is Written Off: Complete UK Guide The essential guide to checking write-off status. Learn what categories mean, how to check, and whether it's safe to buy.
Insurance Write-Off Categories Explained (Cat A, B, S, N) Understand the different write-off categories, which can return to the road and which can't.
What Is a Cat S Car? Write-Off Categories Explained Cat S means structural damage. Learn what it means for safety, insurance, and resale value.
My Car's a Write-Off... Now What? Your car has been written off? Don't panic. Learn about insurance valuations and your options.
What Is a Category A Write-Off? Category A is the most severe. Learn why these cars must be completely crushed.
What Is a Category B Write-Off? Body must be crushed but parts can be salvaged. Understand Category B write-offs.
What Is a Category S Write-Off? Structural damage but repairable. Learn about Cat S cars and VIC checks.
What Is a Category N Write-Off? Non-structural damage only. Cat N can be good value, if you know what to check.