Understand the difference between Category S and Category N insurance write-offs when comparing repaired used cars.
Category S and Category N are both repairable insurance write-off categories, but they describe different types of damage classification.
Category S means structural damage was identified. That makes the quality of structural repair, alignment and supporting evidence especially important when you inspect the car.
Category N means the insurer classified the damage as non-structural. Non-structural does not mean insignificant. Suspension, steering, electronics, airbags and body components can still involve expensive repairs.
With either category, ask for evidence of the original damage and repairs. Historic salvage images, invoices and inspection reports can help you understand what happened rather than relying on the current appearance alone.
Neither marker automatically makes a car unsuitable, but both should influence inspection depth, valuation and the questions you ask before buying.
How to assess a recorded insurance write-off
A write-off marker changes the questions you should ask. The category, type of damage, quality of repair and effect on value all matter more than the label alone.
What to check
Identify the recorded category and date.
Ask for photographs, invoices and repair evidence where available.
Inspect repaired areas carefully, especially after structural damage.
Compare the asking price with equivalent vehicles that do not have a write-off history.
Why it matters
Category S means structural damage was recorded, while Category N is non-structural. Neither label tells you by itself whether the current repair quality is good, so the physical vehicle and supporting evidence remain important.
What the data cannot prove
History data can identify a recorded insurance event but cannot inspect the standard of repairs carried out afterwards. That requires physical evidence and, where appropriate, a professional inspection.
