If you’re browsing the used car market, you may come across the term “Cat D car” (short for Category D). But what does it actually mean? And should you buy one? In this guide, we’ll explain the meaning of a Cat D car, how it differs from other insurance write-off categories, and how you can check if a car has ever been written off using tools like Total Car Check.
What Is a Cat D Car?
A Cat D car is a vehicle that has been classified as a Category D insurance write-off. This means the car was damaged in an accident, stolen and recovered, or otherwise compromised, but the insurer decided it was uneconomical to repair through the insurance process.
Importantly, the damage to a Cat D car is usually less severe than Cat C (now known as Cat S), and often the car can be safely repaired and put back on the road. In many cases, Cat D write-offs involve cosmetic damage, minor structural repairs, or theft recovery.
The Difference Between Cat D and Other Write-Off Categories
The DVLA and insurance industry updated write-off categories in 2017, but many cars are still described using the older terms. Here’s how Cat D compares:
- Cat A – Scrap only; must be destroyed.
- Cat B – Vehicle body must be crushed, but some parts may be salvaged.
- Cat C (now Cat S) – Structural damage, but repairable.
- Cat D (now Cat N) – Non-structural damage; repair costs high relative to value.
So, if you see “Cat D” on a used car listing, it usually means the vehicle had non-structural issues that made repair uneconomical for the insurer, but it was later fixed and deemed roadworthy.
Should You Buy a Cat D Car?
Buying a Cat D car can be a good way to save money, but there are risks:
Pros:
- Often significantly cheaper than equivalent non-write-offs.
- May be perfectly safe and reliable if repairs were carried out to a good standard.
Cons:
- Harder to resell.
- Insurance premiums may be higher.
- Repairs might not have been done to manufacturer standards.
Always arrange a professional inspection before purchasing.
How to Check If a Car Has Been Written Off
Before buying any used car, it’s essential to check whether it has ever been classified as Cat D (or any other category). One of the easiest ways to do this is by using Total Car Check.
Using Total Car Check: Step-by-Step
- Visit Total Car Check’s website.
- Enter the vehicle’s registration number.
- Choose the report type – a free check will give you basic info, but a paid report provides full write-off details and a salvage check.
- Review the report to see if the car has ever been written off, salvaged, stolen, or had mileage issues.
A full Total Car Check will also tell you:
- Whether the car is a Cat D/Cat N/S write-off
- Outstanding finance details
- MOT history
- Vehicle’s value
FAQs
1. What does Cat D car mean?
A Cat D car is a vehicle that has been written off by an insurer due to repair costs being uneconomical compared to its value, usually for non-structural damage.
2. Is Cat D the same as Cat N?
Yes, Cat D was replaced by Cat N in 2017. Both mean the car had non-structural damage but was still repairable.
3. Can I insure a Cat D car?
Yes, but insurance premiums may be higher, and some providers may refuse cover. Always disclose the Cat D status when applying.
4. How can I check if a car is Cat D?
You can use services like Total Car Check by entering the vehicle’s registration to see if it has been written off.
5. Should I buy a Cat D car?
It can be a good way to save money, but always get a professional inspection and use a history check before purchase.
Key Takeaways
- A Cat D car means it was written off due to non-structural damage but later repaired.
- Cat D has been replaced by Cat N, but the term is still widely used.
- Buying a Cat D car can save money, but resale and insurance may be harder.
- Always use a service like Total Car Check to verify a vehicle’s write-off status before purchasing.
By understanding the meaning of Cat D and running a simple history check, you can make a smarter, safer decision when buying a used car.
