How to Check if a Car Has Been Written Off?

If you’re looking at a used car, one of the first things you should check is whether it’s ever been written off. A write-off means an insurance company decided the car was too damaged or too expensive to fix. Some write-offs are safe to drive again after proper repairs, while others should never be back on the road. Either way, you need to know before you buy.

What Does "Written Off" Actually Mean?

When an insurance company writes off a car, they’re saying it’s not worth fixing based on its damage and market value. But “not worth fixing” doesn’t always mean “not fixable.” Some write-offs are repairable, while others are destined for the scrapyard.

To understand exactly what type of write-off you’re dealing with, check out our guide on insurance write-off categories.

Why You NEED to Check for a Write-Off Status

Skipping this check could mean buying a car that’s got serious hidden damage, insurance issues, or a much lower value than expected. Here’s what’s at stake:

1. Safety

Some written-off cars have serious structural damage. Even if they’ve been repaired, they might not be as safe as they were originally.

2. Insurance Costs

Many insurers charge more for written-off cars, and some won’t cover them at all. If you don’t check first, you could be stuck with a car you can’t insure.

3. Resale Value

A car that’s been written off is worth less than the same model with a clean history. If you’re buying, that means you should pay less—and if you’re selling, be ready for buyers to negotiate hard.

4. You HAVE to Disclose It

If you’re selling a written-off car, you legally have to tell the buyer. If you don’t, you could get into serious trouble.

How to Check if a Car Has Been Written Off

Luckily, checking a car’s history is quick and easy. Here’s how to do it:

1. Get the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN)

Every car has a unique registration number—you’ll find it on the number plate, V5C logbook, or old insurance documents.

2. Run a Vehicle History Check

Enter the VRN into our vehicle history check tool to get a full report on the car’s past.

3. Read the Report Carefully

The report will tell you:

• If the car has ever been written off
• What category it falls under
• If the car was properly repaired
• Any past ownership or mileage discrepancies

What If the Car Has Been Written Off?

Finding out a car has been written off doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy it—but it does mean you need to ask more questions.

1. Ask for Proof of Repairs

If the car was repaired, ask for paperwork showing what was done and who did it. If the seller can’t provide this, walk away.

2. Get It Checked by a Mechanic

A professional can spot hidden issues that might not show up in a history check.

3. Check Insurance Costs First

Some insurers won’t cover written-off cars, and others charge way more. Get a quote before you commit.

4. Negotiate the Price

Written-off cars should be cheaper than similar ones with a clean history. If the price doesn’t reflect that, walk away.

FAQs About Checking a Car’s Write-Off Status

Can I drive a car that’s been written off?

It depends on the category. Category S and N write-offs can be repaired and driven. Category A and B cars are scrap-only—you can’t legally drive them again.

Is it a bad idea to buy a written-off car?

Not always. If the damage was minor, the repairs were done properly, and you’re getting a good discount, it could still be a solid buy.

Can a write-off status be removed?

No. A write-off stays on the car’s record forever. Even if it’s repaired, the history won’t disappear.

Final Thoughts

Buying a used car? Check its history first. A write-off status can affect safety, insurance, and resale value, so it’s better to know before you buy.

Run a full vehicle history check to see if a car’s ever been written off. And if you need to know more about write-off categories, check out insurance write-off categories.