TopBritishCars.co.uk
Choosing cars by what they really cost to own
Ordinary British car ownership scene
TopBritishCars.co.uk

Should You Buy a Category N Car?

A Category N car can be worth considering, but only if you understand the previous damage, the quality of the repair and how the history affects value and insurance.

HomeBefore you buy
A Category N car can be worth considering, but only if you understand the previous damage, the quality of the repair and how the history affects value and insurance.

Category N does not mean 'no damage'

It indicates a non-structural insurance write-off classification, not that the incident was trivial. The repair may still have involved expensive panels, electronics, suspension or safety-related components.

Evidence is particularly valuable

Ask for photographs of the damage before repair and invoices for the work. A professional inspection can be worthwhile where the history or repair quality is unclear.

Check insurance before buying

Tell prospective insurers the car's history accurately and establish whether they will cover it on acceptable terms. Also remember that resale value may remain lower than an equivalent car without the marker.

With a Category N car, tell the insurer the history accurately and make sure suitable cover is available before you buy.
Compare car insurance
Powered by Quotezone

Related guides

What Are the Red Flags in a Used-Car Advert?What Should You Actually Do on a Used-Car Test Drive?How Should You Read a Used Car's MOT History?How Much Does Service History Matter on a Used Car?