buying a cat s car

Buying A Cat S or Cat N car

What does it mean and
what are the pros and cons

If you're currently on the hunt for a new car, you might stumble upon a few intriguing listings in the secondhand market offering newer vehicles with low mileage at remarkably attractive prices.

However, you might notice that some of these vehicles are marked as 'Cat S' or 'Cat N'. While it's generally wise to exercise caution when dealing with insurance write-offs, conducting thorough research can uncover some hidden bargains.

A vehicle being designated as a repairable insurance write-off indicates that the cost of repairs is deemed uneconomical, sometimes reaching as low as 50% of the car's value. This is primarily due to the labor-intensive administrative procedures involved, as well as the increasing complexity of automotive technology. With the abundance of sensors and intricate electronic systems in modern vehicles, even a seemingly minor collision can have a significant impact on costly peripheral components.

Interestingly, even older vehicles with minimal damage and in good running condition can be deemed a total loss simply due to their low market value.

While there are dealers in the used car market who specialize in acquiring and reselling Cat S and N cars, we do not endorse this approach. Although some of these vehicles may exhibit minimal traces of past damage and have been diligently repaired, they will always carry the stigma of having been written off, consequently, they may be less appealing to potential buyers. However, with less competition in the market, there is potential to find a favorable deal if you are willing to invest the time and effort to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a purchase.

How can I determine if my car has been written off?

When purchasing a used car, it is crucial to conduct a thorough check of the vehicle's history.

One effective method is to perform a comprehensive vehicle HPI check, which provides detailed information on whether the car has been previously registered or classified as an insurance write-off. This step is important because it directly impacts the car's overall value. You certainly wouldn't want to pay more than the market value for a car that has previously been involved in a road traffic accident.

We recommend V-Check as being one of the most comprehensive car history checks on the market.

Insurance write-off (total loss) categories have specific classifications:

A write-off typically occurs when a car is stolen, damaged by flood or fire, or involved in an accident and is deemed uneconomical to repair or unable to repair due to the nature of the damage.

Written-off cars are put into the following categories which relate to their level of damage:

  • These vehicles are typically extensively damaged, often due to fire, and must be completely crushed, including all spare parts.

  • These vehicles are deemed unfit for road use and their shells must be crushed. However, salvageable spare parts can be extracted and sold separately.

  • These vehicles are repairable, but the cost of repairing them exceeds their value. They have been determined to have some form of structural damage. (Previously categorized as Category C)

  • Similarly repairable, but the cost of repairs would exceed the car's value. These vehicles should not have sustained any structural damage. (Previously categorized as Category D)

Should you buy a Cat S or Cat N car?

Purchasing a written-off car can lead to a reduction in its used value. While they may seem enticingly cheap, it's essential to conduct thorough research and remain vigilant.

Here are a few tips to minimize your risks:

  • Consider investing in a comprehensive history check before making a purchase. This will provide valuable information beyond the car's write-off status, such as whether it has been reported stolen or has outstanding finance, while also confirming its identity.

    We strongly recommend V-Check as unlike many others out there, it will also detect unrecorded write-offs that many big-name reports will simply miss! V-Check will also often be able to show you photographs of the post-accident/pre-repair damage so you can see the true extent of the car’s original damage.

  • For greater peace of mind, opt to buy from a reputable, established dealership. Purchasing from a business grants you stronger consumer rights and makes follow-up procedures easier if any issues arise.

  • When buying any used car, it's important to ask questions. This becomes even more crucial when considering a write-off. While insurers may not be obligated to disclose how the car was damaged, requesting details and photos of the damage can provide a clearer picture. If satisfactory answers cannot be provided, it may be wise to walk away.

  • Cars with structural damage can potentially lead to future headaches, even if the repairs have been done properly. If you choose to take the risk, ensure that the work has been carried out to a high standard.

  • If you already have insurance and plan to switch it to a Cat S or Cat N car, check with your insurer to confirm coverage. Some companies may not insure these vehicles, and those that do are likely to charge higher premiums.

  • To provide additional peace of mind when purchasing a Cat N car, explore the option of acquiring a warranty. Not all warranty providers cover these vehicles, but it can help mitigate costs in case of any future issues.

By following these guidelines, you can make a more informed decision when considering buying a Cat S or Cat N car.

Beware

Not all write-offs make it to the register, many cars currently sitting in main dealerships will pass a standard HPI check without issue but may have suffered very extensive damage in the past and have been subject to an insurance write off.

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