Short answer: yes. A Cat N car is a write-off with non-structural damage, and it can be legally repaired, bought and driven. It is generally seen as a lower-risk write-off than Cat S, but it still has a history you need to understand before you pay.
Cat N means “non-structurally damaged, repairable”. It replaced the old Cat D label in October 2017. The insurer decided the cost of repair was too high compared with the car’s value, so it was written off, but the frame and main structure were not affected.
Does “non-structural” mean minor?
Not necessarily. Non-structural damage can still include expensive parts such as electrics, mechanical components, bodywork or safety systems. A car can also be written off simply because repair costs were high compared with its value, which is common on older, cheaper cars.
That means two Cat N cars can be very different. One may have had a small repair, another a long list of replaced parts.
Is it legal to buy and drive a Cat N car?
Yes. Cat N and Cat S cars can be on the road once repaired. Cat A and B cars cannot. See Cat A, B, S and N explained for the full picture.
Cat N compared with Cat S
Repair quality of the frame
What was replaced and how well
Lower, often by a smaller amount
If you are weighing the two, our guide on buying a Cat S car covers the structural side.
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Unclear damage. Ask exactly what was damaged and repaired.
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Repair quality. Poor repairs show up as paint mismatch, uneven gaps and electrical faults.
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Resale. Expect a lower value and a smaller pool of buyers.
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Cover and credit. Some insurers and lenders treat any write-off differently.
What to check before you buy
1.
Confirm the category with a vehicle history check
2.
Ask for repair invoices and photos
3.
Look closely at panels, paint, lights and interior trim
4.
Test all electrics, warning lights and driver aids
5.
Check the MOT history for patterns
6.
Check mileage, finance and theft records
7.
Get insurance quotes and declare the category
Our used car checklist helps you tick these off when you view the car.
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What was damaged, and what was replaced?
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Who did the repair and can I see the invoices?
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Has the car had any problems since?
Frequently asked questions
Is a Cat N car worth buying?
It can be, if the price reflects the history, the repair evidence is good and you have checked the car carefully. A Cat N car should cost noticeably less than a similar car without a write-off history.
Is Cat N the same as Cat D?
Cat N replaced Cat D in October 2017.
Can I insure a Cat N car?
Usually yes, but you must declare it and not every insurer will cover it. See our guide on insuring a Cat S car, which applies to Cat N too.
Can I get finance for a Cat N car?
Sometimes. See financing a Cat N car.
A vehicle history check shows a car’s write-off category along with finance, stolen and mileage records. Start with a free check at carverified.co.uk or read about our write-off check.