When purchasing a used vehicle in the UK, it’s important to understand insurance write-off categories. One category that often raises concerns is Category S (Cat S). If you’re considering buying or selling a Cat S car, or if your vehicle has been classified as such, knowing what this means can save you from costly mistakes.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything about Cat S cars, how they compare to other categories, and how they impact insurance, repairs, and resale value.
Read Also: How to Check if my Vehicle is Insured
Cat S Meaning: What is Cat S?
Category S cars are vehicles with serious damage to important parts, like the frame or structure. This happens in serious accidents, like crashes. The damage makes the vehicles unsafe to drive until they are fixed by experts.
Once repaired and checked, they can be used again, but it’s important to make sure they are fixed properly. Other insurance write-off categories include:
- Category A: The vehicle is beyond repair and must be scrapped.
- Category B: The vehicle is not roadworthy, but some parts may be salvaged.
- Category N (Non-Structural Damage): The vehicle has sustained damage that does not affect its structural integrity.
How does Cat S differ from Cat N?
The key difference between Cat S and Cat N is the extent of damage:
- Category S: Structural damage, such as a bent chassis or weakened crumple zones, requiring professional repair to restore safety.
- Category N: Non-structural damage, such as cosmetic issues (dents, scratches) or minor mechanical faults that do not affect the vehicle’s framework.
A Cat S car must be re-registered with the DVLA once repaired, whereas a Cat N car does not require re-registration.
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Is Cat S the same as Cat C?
Previously, Cat S was known as Category C before insurance classifications were updated. The main difference is:
- Category C: Vehicles with repair costs exceeding market value.
- Category S: Vehicles with structural damage but deemed repairable.
The change aimed to clarify that Cat S vehicles have structural damage, regardless of repair cost.
Restoring a Category S Car
If you purchase a Cat S car, ensure repairs are performed by a professional with experience in structural work. After repairs, the car must pass an MOT test before being driven legally to ensure safety.
When a car is classified as Cat S due to structural damage, the DVLA must be notified promptly to update its records. Before returning to the road, the vehicle must be re-registered with the DVLA, and an updated V5C logbook must be issued to reflect its repaired and roadworthy condition.
Before purchasing a restored Cat S car, always check the quality of repairs and the car’s history to avoid any financial or legal issues.
How Category S Cars Affect Insurance Companies
Cat S cars often have higher insurance premiums due to their history of structural damage, even after professional repairs. Insurers may view them as higher risk, leading to limited coverage options.
Also, the car’s reduced market value can affect payouts in case of future claims. It’s important to inform insurers about the car’s Category S status and shop around for policies suited to such vehicles, balancing cost and coverage needs.
To insure a Cat S car, you will be required to provide proof of repairs and a valid MOT certificate. After repairs, it’s better to get a new MOT, regardless of whether your existing MOT is still valid. This will ensure the vehicle meets all safety and roadworthiness requirements.
Tips for Buying a Cat S Car
Buying a Cat S car requires careful consideration. Ensuring the vehicle is structurally sound and has been properly repaired is essential to avoid safety risks and unexpected costs.
- Check repair history and ensure professional repairs.
- Verify DVLA re-registration and obtain a V5C logbook.
- Compare insurance costs before purchase.
- Run a car reg check to confirm the write-off details.
- Negotiate for a lower price since you’re dealing with repaired Cat S cars.
- Consider the challenge of reselling the car due to decreased resale value.
Tips for Selling a Cat S Car
Selling a Cat S car comes with unique challenges, but transparency and proper documentation can help you get the best value while maintaining buyer trust.
- Be transparent about its history.
- Provide repair documentation and an MOT certificate.
- Set a competitive price reflecting its write-off status.
- Highlight any improvements and safety checks done.
- Ensure the car is thoroughly cleaned inside and out.
- Provide all relevant paperwork, like the V5C logbook and the repair receipts.
Read Also: Can You Insure a Car Without an MOT?
How to Check if a Write-Off Car is Category S
Before buying a second-hand car, always run an insurance write-off check. Using the Smart Car Check tool, you can check the following:
- Write-off status (Cat A, B, C, D, S, or N).
- Cause of write-off (theft, fire, accident, etc.).
- Extent and date of damage.
- Mileage history, MOT records, previous keepers, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of Cat S in a car?
A Cat S car has sustained structural damage but can be repaired and returned to the road after re-registration with the DVLA.
What is a Cat A, Cat B, Cat S, or Cat N write-off car?
- Cat A: Total destruction, must be scrapped.
- Cat B: Not roadworthy, some parts salvageable.
- Cat S: Structural damage, repairable.
- Cat N: Non-structural damage, repairable.
Can you insure a Cat S write-off?
Yes, but insurance costs may be higher, and some insurers may refuse coverage. A full repair history improves insurability.
Which Cat is better, N or S?
Cat N is preferable as it has no structural damage, making it easier and cheaper to repair and insure compared to Cat S.
What is car insurance write-off?
A write-off means the cost of repairs exceeds a percentage of the car’s value, making it uneconomical to fix according to insurers.
