Cat N insurance is a term used to describe a type of car write-off. When a car is involved in an accident, the insurance company will assess the damage and determine whether it is repairable or not. If the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the car, the insurance company will declare it a write-off. Cat N is one of four levels of damage used by the insurance industry to describe cars that have been involved in accidents. Cat N vehicles have sustained non-structural damage, meaning that the cars body, engine, or other vital components have not been significantly compromised. Examples of non-structural damage include cosmetic issues, electrical faults, or damage to the vehicles interior. Although repairable, the cost to fix these issues may be more than the vehicles value, leading insurers to classify it as a write-off.
If you are considering buying a Cat N car, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and drawbacks. These vehicles often come with lower price tags, but the cost of repairs and potential future issues should not be overlooked. When purchasing a Cat N car, consider the following:
- Inspection: Have a professional mechanic thoroughly inspect the vehicle to determine the extent of the damage and the quality of any previous repairs.
- Insurance: Some insurance companies may charge higher premiums for Cat N vehicles, so factor this into your decision-making process.
- Resale Value: Be aware that Cat N cars may have lower resale values due to their write-off history. This could impact your ability to sell the vehicle in the future.
It is also important to inform your insurance company that the car is a Cat N, as it may need to be noted on your policy.
