Can You Check a Vehicle’s Write-Off Status Using the DVLA?

Thinking of buying a used car? Before you shake hands on the deal, you need to know if that motor has been written off by an insurance company. A car with a write-off history might look fine on the surface, but underneath, it could be hiding some serious issues.

Many buyers assume that a quick check with the DVLA will tell them everything they need to know. Here’s the truth—the DVLA does not tell you if a car has been written off. Their free check gives you some details, but it won’t reveal whether the car has been declared a total loss.

Want the full picture? A proper car history check is the only way to find out.

What Does the DVLA Check Show?

The DVLA’s vehicle enquiry tool is useful for checking a few things, but it won’t tell you everything you need to know. Here’s what it does show:

• Basic vehicle details (make, model, engine size, colour)
• Tax status (whether the car is currently taxed)
• MOT history (past test results and expiry date)
• Emissions data (useful for checking ULEZ compliance)

However, it does not tell you if a car:

• Has been written off by an insurance company
• Has structural or non-structural damage
• Has been repaired and is safe to drive
• Has a lower resale value due to its past

For that, you need a proper write-off check.

How to Properly Check If a Car Has Been Written Off

Follow these steps to check if a car has a write-off history.

1. Get the Vehicle Registration Number (VRN)

The VRN is needed to check the car’s history. You can find it on:

• The number plate
• The V5C logbook
• Insurance or service history documents

2. Use a Proper Write-Off Check

Now that you have the VRN, don’t rely on the DVLA. Instead, use CarOwl to get a full vehicle history report.

3. Review the Full Write-Off Report

A proper vehicle history check will tell you:

• If the car has ever been written off
• The write-off category (A, B, S, or N)
• The type and severity of damage
• Whether any repairs have been recorded
• If the mileage has been tampered with
• The number of previous owners

What If the Car Has Been Written Off?

Not all write-offs are the same. If the check confirms the car has been written off, here’s what to do next.

1. Find Out the Write-Off Category

Write-offs fall into four categories:

• Category A: Total destruction, must be scrapped
• Category B: Beyond repair, only parts can be salvaged
• Category S: Structural damage, can be repaired
• Category N: Non-structural damage, cosmetic or minor mechanical faults

For more details, check our insurance write-off categories guide.

2. Check the Repairs

If the car falls into Category S or N, ask the seller for proof of repairs. Receipts, garage reports, and service history are essential. Even if they provide paperwork, get the car inspected by a mechanic.

3. Confirm Insurance Costs

Some insurers charge more for written-off cars or refuse to cover them entirely. Check with your insurance provider before you buy.

4. Use It to Negotiate

A car with a write-off history should be priced lower than an undamaged model. Use this information to negotiate a fair price.

5. Walk Away If Something Feels Off

If the seller seems hesitant to provide details, the repairs look questionable, or the price seems too good to be true, trust your instincts and look elsewhere.

FAQs About Checking a Car’s Write-Off Status

Can I check a car’s write-off status for free?

No, the DVLA does not provide write-off details. You need a full car history check.

How much does a CarOwl write-off check cost?

CarOwl offers affordable and detailed reports, providing excellent value for the peace of mind they deliver.

Should I buy a car that’s been written off?

It depends on the category. Category S or N might be worth considering if properly repaired. Category A or B should be avoided.

Does a write-off affect resale value?

Yes, a car with a write-off history will always be worth less than one without.

The Bottom Line

The DVLA check does not tell you if a car has been written off. If you want the full story, get a full vehicle history check before buying.

For more insights, read our car write-off history guide.