What is a Cat N Car? Meaning, Safety, Insurance & Buying Guide

If you are shopping for a used car, you may come across vehicles described as 'Cat N'. Cat N cars are often cheaper than similar models with clean histories, making them very appealing to buyers. But before you take the plunge and buy a Cat N car, it's worth understanding a bit about what Cat N means.

This guide explains exactly what a Cat N car is, what type of damage it refers to, whether such vehicles can return to the road, and what buyers and owners should consider before making a decision. So, what is a Cat N car, and how does a Cat N classification in the car's history impact its usefulness and safety for you in the future? Let's take a look.

In This Guide:

What is a Cat N car?
What is considered Category N damage?
Can a Cat N car ever be returned to the road?
Is it safe to buy a Cat N car?
Can Category N cars be insured?
How do I find out if a car is Cat N?
How do I sell my Cat N car?
Should you buy a Cat N car? Final things to consider
FAQs about Cat N cars

What is a Cat N car?

A Cat N car is a vehicle that has been written off by an insurer. ‘Written off' essentially means that the car has been damaged so badly that the cost of repairing it will be higher than its overall value.

There are four write-off categories, all of which relate to the type and severity of the damage that led to the write-off. Category N stands for non-structural damage. As a general rule, written off cars - particularly Cat N vehicles - can be repaired properly, to a perfectly acceptable and safe standard. However, write-off status affects more than just the car's safety and functionality.

In the past, Category N was known as Category D. The system changed in 2017 to make write-off categories clearer for consumers. While Cat N cars are considered less severely damaged than structural write-offs, they are still officially recorded as insurance write-offs. Once a car is given Cat N status, that classification stays with the vehicle for life, and you will have to disclose it if you ever decide to sell it.

What is considered Category N damage?

Category N damage refers to issues with non-structural parts of the vehicle - i.e. parts that are deemed repairable without compromising the vehicle’s structural integrity or basic safety features.

Common examples of Category N damage include electrical faults, damaged body panels, broken lights, interior damage, stolen recovered vehicles, and issues with infotainment systems or wiring. Cosmetic damage can also fall under Category N if repair costs are high.

It is important to understand that non-structural damage does not automatically mean minor damage. For example, electrical problems can be very complex and expensive to diagnose and fix properly. What's more, if repair work isn't done properly, diligently, and to a high quality, it could also lead to long-term reliability issues.

Can a Cat N car ever be returned to the road?

Yes, a Cat N car can legally return to the road if it's in roadworthy condition. Unlike Category A and B vehicles, there is no automatic ban on using a Cat N vehicle once repairs are completed.

There is no specific need for an inspection by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency purely because of Cat N status. However, the car must be roadworthy and meet all legal requirements, including a valid MOT where applicable, before it can hit the road again.

All in all, Cat N cars are legally able to return to the road once necessary repairs have been completed, but it's up to the owner to ensure these repairs are completed to a safe standard. If you're considering buying a car with a Category N write-off history, it's a good idea to request repair records and confirm that any damage has been fixed properly.

Is it safe to buy a Cat N car?

A Cat N car can be safe to buy, but it's important to approach it carefully. The key things to consider are the nature of the original damage and the quality of the repairs.

Because Category N cars have not sustained structural damage, safety systems such as airbags and crumple zones should all still be in good working order. That being said, electrical or mechanical faults can still affect the car's reliability and, in some cases, its safety features.

Before buying, it is a good idea to request detailed repair records, invoices, and photographs showing the damage both before and after repairs. If you need more reassurance, consider getting an independent inspection done by a qualified mechanic.

If you are uncomfortable assessing repairs or cannot verify what work was done, a Cat N car may not be the right choice for you.

Can Category N cars be insured?

Yes, Category N cars can be insured, but your options may be more limited. Many insurance providers will offer cover, though some may refuse or apply higher premiums based on the insurance implications of past accident damage.

Insurers assess risk based on repair history, vehicle value, and the likelihood of future claims. Because Cat N cars are recorded as write-offs, some insurers view them as higher risk. As such, if you do manage to get insurance for the car, the payout in the event of another write-off may be lower. So, it's a good idea to compare providers and read policy terms carefully.

Ideally, get some guidance on car insurance types and how insurers assess risk before you start comparing quotes for a Cat N vehicle.

How do I find out if a car is Cat N?

The most reliable way to check a car’s status is through a vehicle history check. An HPI or DVLA check or similar service will confirm whether a car has been written off and which category it falls under. You can also check the V5C logbook and service history for supporting information.

Ideally, a seller should disclose Cat N status upfront. Failing to do so can be considered misleading and could be grounds for legal action against them. A seller who is reluctant to provide details or documentation should raise red flags.

How do I sell my Cat N car?

Selling a Cat N car is legal, but you have to clearly declare its status. Also, remember that private buyers and dealers will expect a lower price than for an equivalent car with no write-off history.

Providing evidence of professional repairs, maintenance records, and an up-to-date MOT can help build trust. Clear descriptions and honest communication will reduce the risk of disputes.

Should you buy a Cat N car? Final things to consider

A Cat N car can offer good value for money, particularly if the damage was limited and repairs were carried out to a high standard. Lower purchase prices make these cars attractive to budget-conscious drivers.

However, there are a range of potential drawbacks to buying a Cat N car, including reduced resale value, narrower insurance options, and the need for greater due diligence. As a buyer, you should be comfortable assessing repair quality or paying for professional inspections before you part with any money.

If you prioritise long-term value retention and minimal risk, a car with no write-off history may be a better choice. If price is your main concern and you are prepared to research thoroughly, a Cat N car could be a sensible option.

If you do opt for a Cat N vehicle and want to get the best possible policy for what can be a tricky insurance prospect, use MoneyExpert's intuitive quote comparison tools to find the perfect insurer for your Cat N car.

FAQs about Cat N cars

Does Cat N status affect my car’s value?

Yes. A Cat N car is typically worth less than an equivalent model without a write-off history. The reduction can vary depending on the vehicle, age, and quality of repairs, but it is common to see lower resale prices.

Is my insurance cancelled if I write off my car?

When a car is written off, the policy usually ends for that vehicle once the claim is settled. This does not automatically cancel your entire policy with your insurance company, but you will need to arrange cover for any replacement car.

Does a Cat N car need a new MOT?

A Cat N car does not automatically require a new MOT purely because of its status. However, it must have a valid MOT if it is over three years old and is being driven on the road.

Does Cat N status show on an HPI check?

Yes. Cat N status is recorded and will appear on an HPI check or similar vehicle history report. This record remains permanently.

Can Cat N status ever be removed?

No. Once a car is classified as Cat N, the status cannot be removed, even if repairs are completed to a very high standard.

How much cheaper are Cat N cars?

The discount varies, but Cat N cars are often priced noticeably lower than equivalent models. The exact difference depends on demand, condition, and how well the repairs were documented.

What is a Cat N car? Meaning, safety, insurance, and buying guide