The four categories
Cat S (Structural) means the chassis or a structural part was damaged but the car can be professionally repaired. Cat N (Non-structural) means the damage was cosmetic or electrical, with no structural harm.
Cat C and Cat D are the older equivalents used before 2017 — broadly, Cat C is heavier damage and Cat D lighter. All four can legally return to the road once repaired and, where required, inspected.
Can you still sell a written-off car?
Absolutely. We buy Cat S, Cat N, Cat C and Cat D vehicles every day, repaired or not. The category is recorded against the vehicle for life, so it's factored into the offer, but it never stops a sale.
You must disclose the category honestly when selling — hiding it is illegal and, with us, unnecessary: we buy write-offs as standard.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a Cat S or Cat N car?
Yes. Write-off categories are permanently recorded but the car can still be sold. We buy Cat S, Cat N, Cat C and Cat D vehicles, repaired or unrepaired.
Does a write-off category lower the value?
It reduces value compared to an equivalent clean car, but a repairable write-off still holds real worth in its parts and remaining life.
