Write-off checks

Understand write-off records and what to investigate before buying.

Write-offs8 min read

Why Cars Get Written Off: Repair Costs and Buyer Risks

Write-off decisions compare repair costs and value. Understand categories, historical register gaps and the evidence to request before buying.

7 July 2026

Write-offs6 min read

The £5,000 Trade-In That Halved When the History Came Out

A Skoda Yeti owner offered £5,000 at trade-in watched it drop to £2,500 when a salvage record surfaced. Nobody told him the car was previously written off.

5 July 2026

Write-offs7 min read

Written Off Cars Are Being Resold With No Inspection

Written off cars can be repaired and resold in the UK with no independent inspection. Autocar's investigation shows how big the gap really is.

25 June 2026

Write-offs6 min read

Category A Write-Off: What It Means and Why These Cars Must Stay Off the Road

A category A write-off must be crushed entirely. No parts, no repairs, no road use. Here is what Cat A means, how it differs from other categories, and why these cars still appear on the market.

11 May 2026

Write-offs6 min read

What Is a Cat C or Cat D Write-Off? The Old Categories Explained

Cat C and Cat D are the old UK write-off categories used before October 2017. They still appear on history checks for millions of older cars. Here is what they mean and what risks you are taking.

9 May 2026

Write-offs6 min read

What Is a Cat B Write-Off? Why You Should Never Buy One

Cat B write-offs are declared beyond economic repair with salvageable parts only. The vehicle's identity must be destroyed. Here is what that means and why Cat B cars should never be driven.

4 May 2026

Write-offs5 min read

Can You Insure a Cat S or Cat N Write-off?

Cat S and Cat N write-offs can legally return to the road but insuring them is harder than most buyers expect. Here is what to know before you commit.

3 May 2026

Write-offs6 min read

Should You Buy a Cat S or Cat N Write-Off?

Write-off cars can be good value - or a financial trap. Here is how to decide whether a Cat S or Cat N is worth the risk.

4 April 2026

Write-offs4 min read

What Does a Category N Write-Off Mean?

Category N means non-structural damage. The car was written off by an insurer, but the damage did not affect the chassis or safety structure.

3 April 2026

Write-offs5 min read

What Does a Category S Write-Off Mean?

Category S means the car suffered structural damage. It can be repaired and put back on the road - but there are risks you need to understand first.

2 April 2026