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Car buying glossary · what it means

Cat B write-off

A Cat B write-off is a car written off only for parts: its shell is crushed and it can never return to the road.

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What Cat B write-off means for you

A Cat B car has been judged by its insurer as only fit to be broken up for parts. The body shell is crushed, and the car must never go back on the road, so it has no place in ordinary driving. Check for it before any purchase.

If you're buying, don't rely on the seller's word. A Full Check (£9.99) covers write-offs, alongside finance, stolen status and plate changes. Walk away from any car with a Cat B record. If you already own a car that turns out to be one, take advice first.

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