Cat D Cars: Definition and Criteria
‘Cat D’ refers to a car deemed beyond economical repair by an insurer, with repair costs exceeding 50% of the car’s value. Cat D cars are written off due to repair costs rather than damage.
Buying a Cat D Vehicle
When moderate damage is visible, a Cat D marker is placed, and the insurance company assesses repair vs write-off costs. It’s important to buy from a trusted source.
Vehicle Categories: Cat D, Cat N, and Cat S
Under the new system, categories define structural damage. Cat D cars under the old system could be classified as either Cat N if there is no structural damage or Cat S if there is a need for structural repair. Older Cat C classifications remain in place with new write-offs now classified as Cat S.
Miscellaneous Notes
Cat S cars have structural damage but can be repaired for road use, while Cat D (now Cat N) cars have non-structural damage affecting resale value the least.