All you need to know about CAT S and N salvage cars
Category S (Repairable Structural) and Category N (Repairable Non-structural) came in to effect on October 1st, 2017. Contrary to what some may think, the new categories didn’t directly replace Category Cs and Category Ds.
Any vehicle categorised as C or D prior to 1st October will remain in circulation under those categories until such point as they are re-categorised, so there will be a period of crossover where you will see both Category C & D and Category S & N vehicles at auction online.
Frequently asked questions
What is Category S (Repairable Structural)*
A CAT S Repairable Structural vehicle ‘has sustained damage to any part of the structural frame or chassis, and the insurer/self-insured owner has decided not to repair the vehicle.’
*Please note, V5 documents will not be provided with any CAT S vehicle.
Category S or CAT S is an indication of the level of damage to a vehicle. The categorisation is set by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) which is UK's leading financial services trade association.
What is considered ‘structural damage’?
The Code of Practice contains the following illustrations, showing the structural areas of vehicle construction. The illustrations are generic and are for guidance purposes only. Vehicle design and description of the components will differ between vehicle manufacturers.
Source: Extracted from the Code of Practice for the Categorisation of Motor Vehicles. Click to enlarge image
What is non-structural damage?
This is ‘cosmetic damage’ that has had no structural impact on the vehicle. This could include simple chips and scratches, bumper scrapes and dents, and in some cases minor scrapes and dents in panels.
A CAT N vehicle will have been inspected by an appropriately qualified person, who has declared the vehicle has not sustained damage to the structural frame or chassis and is suitable for repair.
Is Category N the same as the old Category D?
No. A CAT N is not a direct replacement for a Cat D.
A Category D was defined by the Code of Practice as ‘repairable total loss vehicles where repair costs including VAT do not exceed the vehicle’s pre-accident value (PAV).’
With a CAT D, the decision was based on repair costs but with a CAT N the decision is based on the extent of damage to the vehicle.
Who can buy Category S and N (Repairable Non-structural)?
CAT S and N salvage vehicles are available for purchase without the need for any particular licences unlike if you were to buy Category B vehicles. That said, if you were to buy from Copart you would need to register and agree to our trade terms and conditions before you could get started.
How do I register to Buy Category S and N repairable salvage vehicles with Copart?
To register, simply fill out the registration form on our Registration page. Once you submit the registration form, you will be sent a confirmation email containing your login information and password. Passwords are usually emailed within five minutes.
Examples of Damage
What is Category N Non-Structural – Repairable Salvage
Category N - Repairable vehicle which has not sustained damage to the structural frame or chassis and the insurer/self-insured owner has decided not to repair the vehicle.’
Exactly the same as for a Category S vehicle, the Categorisation is an indication of the level of damage to a vehicle. The categorisation is set by the Association of British Insurers which is the UK's leading financial services trade association.
Who should buy CAT S / N Salvage cars?
It totally depends on what you’re after however, a salvage vehicle is more likely to be suited to a salvage buyer looking to fix up and sell on rather than a trade buyer dealing with consumers who are more likely to be interested in purchasing a used vehicle with or without some minor cosmetic damage. Take the time to read each vehicle description so you can make an educated decision on which vehicle is best for you.
Is Category S the same as the old Category C?
No. A CAT S is not a direct replacement for a CAT C.
A Category C was defined by the Code of Practice as ‘repairable total loss vehicles where repair costs including VAT exceed the vehicle’s pre-accident value (PAV).’
With a CAT C, the decision was based on repair costs but with a Cat S the decision is based on the extent of damage to the vehicle.
I’ve seen a CAT S / CAT N vehicle that I like, can I view it before bidding?
Yes! We always recommend that Members take the time to view a vehicle prior to bidding and buying. Simply contact the location where the vehicle is being stored and we will be happy to arrange with you a time to view the vehicle.