How to Tell if a Car Has Been Written Off?

Before you even think about buying a used car, stop for a second and run a full history check. Seriously, this step is non-negotiable. You might think you’ve found a great deal, but if the car has been written off and you don’t know about it, you could be walking into a financial disaster—or worse, a serious safety risk.

A “written-off” car is one that’s been damaged so badly that an insurance company decided it wasn’t worth fixing. But here’s the thing: not all write-offs are equal. Some are completely wrecked and should never be on the road again, while others are repairable and might still be a good buy—if you know what to look for.

What Exactly Is a Write-Off?

Insurance companies categorize write-offs based on how much damage the car has. In the UK, this is broken down into four categories:

• Category A: This is as bad as it gets. The car is so damaged it must be destroyed, and even the parts aren’t safe to reuse.
• Category B: The car itself can’t be driven again, but some parts may be salvageable.
• Category S: The car has had structural damage, but it can be repaired and made roadworthy.
• Category N: No structural damage, but repairs were still deemed uneconomical.

If you’re unsure about these categories and how they affect a car’s value, check out our full guide to write-off categories.

Why Should You Care?

Buying a written-off car isn’t always a bad idea, but it’s a decision you need to make with your eyes open. Here’s why checking is crucial:

• Safety: A poorly repaired car could be unsafe, even if it looks fine on the surface.
• Insurance Issues: Some insurers won’t cover a written-off car, and those that do might charge you extra.
• Resale Value: A car with a write-off history is harder to sell and will always be worth less.

Still on the fence? Read more on why write-off history matters.

How to Check If a Car Has Been Written Off

If you’re looking at a used car and want to know if it’s been written off, here’s exactly what to do.

Step 1: Run a History Check

The fastest way to check is by looking up the car’s history. Use a vehicle history check to instantly see if it’s ever been written off.

Step 2: Inspect the Car

Even if the seller is honest, they might not know the full history of the car. Look for these telltale signs:

• Paint that doesn’t quite match on different parts of the car.
• Doors, bonnet, or boot that don’t line up perfectly.
• New-looking parts that seem out of place.

Step 3: Check the VIN

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should match the one in the logbook (V5C). If it looks tampered with, walk away.

Step 4: Get a Professional Inspection

A mechanic can spot things you might miss, especially structural repairs.

Should You Buy a Written-Off Car?

It depends. Some written-off cars can be great bargains, while others are just headaches waiting to happen. Here’s when it might make sense:

Category S or N Cars

If a car is Category S or Category N, it can legally be repaired and driven. But before you buy, check:

• Has the repair work been done professionally?
• Can you get insurance at a reasonable price?
• Are you okay with the lower resale value?

Insurance Considerations

Many insurers charge more for covering a written-off car, and some won’t cover them at all. Before you buy, call your insurance company. For more on this, check out Insuring a Written-Off Car.

FAQs

Can I drive a written-off car?

Yes, but only if it’s a Category S or N car that has been properly repaired. Category A and B cars can’t be driven.

How do I confirm a write-off?

Use a history check to find out for sure. Do one now: Check Here.

Are all written-off cars unsafe?

No, but it depends on the quality of repairs. Some can be just as safe as any other car, while others are a ticking time bomb.

Final Thoughts

Never buy a used car without checking if it has been written off. Use a full history check, inspect the car properly, and get professional advice if needed.

For more details, visit our complete guide to write-offs.