Thinking of buying a used car? Make sure you check if it's a Cat N write-off before you commit. A Category N car may look fine on the surface, but it could have a hidden accident history that affects safety, insurance, and resale value.
Simply enter the registration number above and upgrade to our Silver or Gold Car Check to instantly reveal if the vehicle has a Category N (Cat N) write-off status.
A Cat N car, short for Category N write-off, is a vehicle that has been damaged in an accident, but the damage is classed as non-structural. The “N” stands for Non-structural, meaning the vehicle’s frame or chassis was not affected.
Because the structural integrity remains intact, Cat N cars are generally safe to repair and return to the road—but only if repairs are done to a high standard.
Yes — you can legally drive a Cat N car, as long as it's been properly repaired and is roadworthy.
Unlike Cat A or Cat B vehicles (which must be scrapped), Cat N write-offs can be repaired and used on the road without special inspections — but quality matters.
Buying a Cat N vehicle can be a good way to save money on the used car market. However, it’s important to balance the potential savings with the associated risks.
To avoid surprises, you should always perform a Cat N car check before buying a second-hand vehicle.
Yes, insurance is available for Cat N cars, and it’s generally easier and cheaper than insuring a Cat S vehicle.
Important: Always tell your insurer about the car’s write-off status. Failing to do so can invalidate your policy and cause problems in the event of a claim.
Even though Cat N damage is not structural, it’s still vital to inspect the car carefully.
A Cat N car can be a worthwhile purchase — especially if you’re a budget-conscious buyer who understands how to assess vehicle condition.
Some lenders will finance Cat N vehicles, but many prefer standard used cars. Always confirm before applying.
Only if the MOT has expired. A new MOT isn't mandatory after repairs, but it’s wise to get one if the car had significant damage.
Not always. If the DVLA has been notified of the Cat N then a newly issued logbook for the vehicle should state this. However, there are cases where the DVLA is not informed. Therefore it’s important you don’t rely on the logbook alone.
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