Understanding Cat S and Cat N Cars – What You Need to Know

If you’re browsing for used cars or thinking about selling one, you’ve probably seen terms like ‘Cat S’ or ‘Cat N’. These are insurance write-off categories that describe the level of damage a vehicle has sustained.

A **Cat S (Structural)** car has suffered damage to its frame or chassis, which has since been professionally repaired. A **Cat N (Non-Structural)** vehicle has only cosmetic or electrical damage but was still deemed uneconomical to repair by the insurer.

While these vehicles can offer significant savings, it’s important to understand the implications. Cat S cars must be re-registered with the DVLA after repair, while Cat N vehicles do not. Always check the repair quality and request inspection reports before purchase.

At Partsworth, we dismantle Cat S and Cat N vehicles responsibly — salvaging usable parts, engines, and components for reuse. This ensures sustainable recycling and helps UK drivers access affordable, genuine parts while reducing environmental impact.