Introduction
If you're thinking about scrapping your car or buying a used one, you’ve probably come across terms like Cat S, Cat N, or even older classifications like Cat C and Cat D. But what do these insurance categories mean, and how do they affect your vehicle’s value or roadworthiness?
In this blog, we’ll break down each category, explain how the classification system changed in 2017, and guide you through what to do if your vehicle has been written off — especially if you're considering scrapping it.
What is a Write-Off Category?
When a vehicle is involved in an accident or suffers damage, insurance companies assess whether it’s more economical to repair it or not. If repairs are too costly compared to the car’s value, the insurer may "write off" the vehicle — assigning it a category based on the severity and type of damage.
Category A – Scrap Only
What it means: Cat A vehicles are severely damaged beyond repair and must be crushed. No parts can be salvaged or reused.
Common causes: Extreme fire damage or structural collapse in a major collision.
Can it be returned to the road? Absolutely not. These vehicles are deemed unsafe in every way.
What to do: Scrap it with an ATF-Registered (Authorised Treatment Facility) collector — like those in our trusted network at Recycle Any Car.
Category B – Break for Parts
What it means: Cat B cars have sustained irreparable structural damage, but some parts may be safely removed and reused.
Can it be returned to the road? No. The body shell must be crushed, but certain mechanical or electrical parts (like engines or gearboxes) can be salvaged.
What to do: Only licensed recyclers can break a Cat B vehicle. If you’re the owner, the best route is to scrap it through a certified collection network to ensure it’s handled legally.
The 2017 Change: Goodbye Cat C & D, Hello Cat S & N
In October 2017, the vehicle write-off system was updated to focus more on structural vs. non-structural damage rather than repair costs. This change was meant to make the categories clearer for buyers and sellers of damaged vehicles.
Cat C (structural damage, repairable) → Now known as Cat S
Cat D (non-structural damage, repairable) → Now known as Cat N
Category S – Structural Damage
What it means: The vehicle has suffered structural damage (e.g. to the chassis or crumple zone) but can be professionally repaired and returned to the road.
Common examples: Front or rear-end collisions, damage to suspension mounts or subframes.
Can I drive or sell it? Yes — but only once it has been properly repaired and passed road safety checks. You must inform future buyers of the vehicle’s Cat S status.
What to do if you own one: If repair costs aren’t worth it, you can scrap your Cat S vehicle through Recycle Any Car and ensure it’s handled by a licensed, environmentally responsible facility.
Category N – Non-Structural Damage
What it means: The vehicle has no structural damage but may have cosmetic or electrical issues that made it uneconomical to repair.
Common issues: Broken bumpers, electrical faults, airbag deployment.
Can I still drive or sell it? Yes, as long as it’s roadworthy. But just like Cat S, you’re legally required to disclose the Cat N status when selling the car.
What to do if you no longer need it: We offer a free, no-obligation quote for Cat N cars. Whether it's minor damage or just too costly to fix, scrapping it could be the most practical option.
Scrapping Your Write-Off Vehicle with Recycle Any Car
Whether your vehicle is Cat A, B, S, or N — we make scrapping simple. Here’s how it works:
- Get a Free Valuation – Just enter your reg and postcode.
- We Arrange Collection – Free, contactless pickup at your convenience.
- Responsible Recycling – All vehicles are processed by licensed ATF collectors.
- Eco-Friendly & Transparent – No hidden fees. We even plant a tree for every vehicle scrapped.
Conclusion
Understanding vehicle write-off categories helps you make informed decisions — whether you're buying, selling, or scrapping a damaged car. If you’re holding onto a Category S or N vehicle that’s no longer worth repairing, or you’ve inherited a Cat A/B write-off, let Recycle Any Car handle the process for you.
We offer nationwide coverage, professional support, and a green approach to car recycling.
Ready to see what your write-off is worth?
Get a free, no-obligation quote today and turn your damaged car into something good for the planet.