Has the car been written off?
A written-off car isn't always a bad buy — but you must know its category and history first. Here's what Cat A, B, S and N mean, and how to check any UK car.
Quick answer: Enter the plate for a free preview, then unlock the write-off result in a full report from £7.99. We show whether the car has an insurance total-loss marker and its category.
What is an insurance write-off?
A car is "written off" when an insurer decides it's uneconomical or unsafe to repair after an accident, flood, fire or theft. The insurer records the vehicle on the Motor Insurance Anti-Fraud and Theft Register (MIAFTR) and assigns it a category based on the severity of the damage.
Write-off categories explained
- Category A — Scrap only. Severe damage; the entire car must be crushed, including parts. Never legal to return to the road.
- Category B — Body shell destroyed. The body must be crushed, but some salvageable parts may be reused in other vehicles. The car itself cannot go back on the road.
- Category S — Structural damage. The chassis or a structural part was damaged but can be professionally repaired. Legal to drive once repaired and re-registered.
- Category N — Non-structural damage. Cosmetic or electrical damage with no structural harm. Legal to drive once repaired.
Categories S and N replaced the older Cat C and Cat D in 2017, so you may still see those on older records.
Should you buy a written-off car?
A Cat S or Cat N car can be a sensible buy — they're often cheaper — but only if:
- The repairs were carried out professionally and documented.
- You get an independent inspection before buying.
- The price clearly reflects the write-off history.
- You accept it will be worth less when you come to sell.
Warning: Never buy a Cat A or Cat B car to put on the road — it's illegal and unsafe. And be wary of any seller who doesn't disclose a write-off: it's a major red flag.
Write-off check FAQs
What do Cat A, B, S and N mean?
Cat A is scrap only; Cat B means the shell is destroyed but parts can be reused; Cat S is repairable structural damage; Cat N is non-structural damage. Cat S and N cars can legally return to the road once properly repaired.
Is it safe to buy a Cat S or Cat N car?
It can be, if repairs were done properly and the price reflects the history. Always get an independent inspection. Never buy a Cat A or Cat B car to drive.
How do I check if a car is a write-off?
Enter the registration into GuruCarCheck. A full report reveals any insurance write-off record and its category, from £7.99.