What Car? Q&A - Write-offs - what should I look for?

Q: If a used car is category C-repaired by the insurance company with a private garage, is there anything I should watch out for? I am considering buying a car of this description and the price seems £3000 cheaper than the market price for the car.
Bong Choi

A: Category C represents a vehicle that has been quite heavily damaged. Usually an insurance company will choose not to repair it, declaring it a write-off, but it is salvageable if work is carried out correctly.

If the vehicle has been repaired well, then there should be no problem. The best thing to do is to have a full mechanical inspection carried out at an independent workshop or by the RAC. Don't rely on an MoT certificate - it isn't sufficient.

Before you insure the car, it is essential to let the insurance company know that it has previously been damaged, as they may refuse a claim otherwise.