How to Check the Write-Off History of a Car?

Purchasing a used car must be done with care, particularly its history. One of the things to look for is if the car was ever written off. A car history check will show information on accidents, damage, or repairs that affect the car's safety, value, and insurance. This guide outlines where to obtain a car's write-off history and why it should be checked.

What Is a Car Write-Off History?

A write-off history indicates whether the vehicle was wrecked and could not be repaired or otherwise, where an insurer made it uneconomical to repair. The activities are categorised by the level of damage and if the vehicle was repaired, scrapped, or salvaged.

Identifying Write-Off Types

Write-offs are categorised as follows:

• Category A: Unrecoverable; the vehicle must be scrapped and none of its components salvaged.
• Category B: Widespread damage; not roadworthy but salvageable parts.
• Category S: Damage to the structure; repaired and back on the road safely.
• Category N: Non-structural damage; repairable, typically electrical or cosmetic repairs.

For a more detailed breakdown of these categories, check out our insurance write-off categories guide.

Why Check the Write-Off History of a Car?

Knowing a car's write-off history means you:

• Steer Clear of Safety Risks: Hidden damage compromises safety, even though the car has been fixed.
• Get a Suitable Price: Written-off vehicles lose their value faster, and the price needs to be regained.
• Offer Insurability: Insurers will refuse to insure or charge more for written-off cars.
• Make an Informed Choice: Knowledge of a car's history enables you to determine what state and condition it is in.

How to Verify a Write-Off History of a Vehicle

In order to verify if a car is written off, follow the below:

1. Get the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN)

The VRN, on the number plate or vehicle's logbook (V5C), will be utilised in doing the car history check. First, get the number.

2. Buy a Write-Off History Report from a Car History Check Service

There are decent services that offer write-off history reports, including:

• DVLA Vehicle Check: DVLA only offers limited information regarding a car's write-off history.
• CarOwl's full vehicle check: A trusted source for detailed write-off records.
• AutoTrader's write-off check report: Handy when buying from AutoTrader.

3. Enter the VRN

Enter the number plate into your selected service. The system will generate an automatic report of the car's write-off history, category, and recorded repairs.

4. Review the Report

Read the report carefully for:

• Write-off categories and level of damage.
• Whether the car was repaired and certified roadworthy.
• Any change in ownership history or mileage.

What to Do If a Car Has a Write-Off History

You don't need to steer clear of buying a car with a write-off history, but do the following first:

1. Evaluate Repairs

Request repair history from the seller, especially for Category S or N vehicles. Have a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.

2. Negotiate Price

Write-off cars are less expensive. Negotiate accordingly based on history check.

3. Insure Insurance Cover

Some insurance companies do not cover a write-off car or charge higher premiums. Request insurance cover before purchase. Read more in our guide to insuring a written-off car.

Tips for Buying a Write-Off Car

If you've already made up your mind to purchase a write-off vehicle, follow these tips:

• Ask Records: Get a copy of repairs and a good explanation of previous damage.
• Inspect Car Closely: Have a professional inspect the condition of the vehicle.
• Market Prices Comparison: Observe market prices of similar cars with or without a write-off record.

Frequently Asked Questions on Write-Off History Check

Among some of the most commonly asked questions about checking the write-off history of a vehicle are:

Is it safe to purchase a write-off vehicle?

It may be okay if it was a Category S or N write-off and was properly repaired.

Do I have to disclose a car's write-off history when selling it?

Yes, you must inform potential buyers if the vehicle has been written off. Read more in our guide to checking write-off status before selling.

How much does a write-off history check cost?

Free basic DVLA checks are offered, but full reports from firms like CarOwl or AutoTrader will be £5-£20.

Conclusion

A car write-off check is mandatory when buying a used vehicle. You will be protected from unexpected danger and receive a fair price if you know the history of a car. Utilise a reputable website like CarOwl's car check and simply continue doing what this guide suggests to make a safe and intelligent purchase.