Expert answers to your most common questions about scrapping vehicles in the UK. Learn how Scrap Local’s process works, what documents you need, and what
Our buyers pay the best prices for cars and vans that have been written off by an insurance company as a Cat S damaged vehicle.
No matter the condition, we pick up for free and pay fast!
Sellers receive their money quickly and securely, via bank transfer, so you can confirm funds before handing over your keys.
Not sure what a Cat S vehicle is? Check out our guide: What is a Cat S?
Alternatively, learn what all the insurance write-off categories mean and how they can affect your vehicle.
Are you tired of trying to sell your previously Cat S-damaged car? Getting rid of your broken motor couldn’t be easier with Scrap Local.
The resale value of a Category S car is typically lower than that of an undamaged vehicle, often ranging from 20 – 50% less, depending on the condition and quality of repairs.
We pay guaranteed prices for a range of accident-damaged vehicles! Whether it has suffered structural damage during an accident or is broken beyond repair, we will turn your old car into cash!
When selling a Cat S car, it’s crucial to gather all documentation, including the V5C logbook, a valid MOT certificate, receipts for repairs, and stamped service books to prove maintenance history.
Always provide accurate and complete information, including the date of categorisation or repairs, to ensure transparency and avoid issues with insurance or registration checks.
1. Receive Your Quote
Enter your reg and postcode to receive a guaranteed price from one of our 130+ network of agents.
2. Book A Collection
Arrange a free scrap car collection service from any location, on a date that suits you.
3. Get Paid
Zero-fuss! Receive a prompt payment securely to your bank when your vehicle has been collected.
Question about scrapping your car in Cat S?
Expert answers to your most common questions about scrapping vehicles in the UK. Learn how Scrap Local’s process works, what documents you need, and what
Discover how payments work when scrapping your car with Scrap Local. We explain our secure BACS process, payment times, and what to expect after collection.
Find clear answers to everything you need to know about Scrap Local’s free scrap car collections. From booking your vehicle in and preparing for collection,
With a network of car-buying agents, Scrap Local can collect vehicles in many areas throughout the UK.
With our free collection service, you can sell your Cat S on the day that suits you best.
Whether your Cat S car is at your home, work or the garage, we’ll collect from a location that works for you.
We’ll contact you beforehand, and once collected, we’ll offer assistance for informing the DVLA for added peace of mind.
Understanding the different category classifications for written-off cars is essential for anyone looking to sell or buy a vehicle in the UK.
When an insurance company assesses a car after an accident, they assign a write-off category based on the extent of the damage sustained.
For example, a Category S (Cat S) car has structural damage but can be repaired to a high standard and returned to the road.
This replaced the old Category C (Cat C) classification in 2017, reflecting updates to how write-off categories are defined.
A Category S car is considered a write-off by insurance companies, meaning it is typically worth 20-50% less than an equivalent undamaged vehicle.
The resale value of a Cat S car is impacted by buyer hesitance due to concerns about the quality of repairs and potential hidden issues, which can further drive down prices.
Category B (Cat B) vehicles, on the other hand, have sustained such significant damage that they can never be driven again, but may still have salvageable parts.
The key difference is that a Cat S can be repaired and used, while a Cat B is destined for dismantling and scrap.
For potential buyers, it’s crucial to be aware of the vehicle’s condition, the repairs required, and the history before making a purchase.
The status of a written-off car directly affects its value, insurance costs, and future resale potential.
Even an old car with a write-off status can be worth something if it has valuable parts or can be restored.
However, selling a Cat S or other write-offs can be challenging, as buyers are often reluctant due to the car’s accident history and the potential costs involved in bringing it back to a legal, roadworthy standard.
If you’re considering buying a Category S car, be prepared for higher insurance premiums and the possibility of future repairs.
Insurance companies factor in the vehicle’s past damage and may require proof that repairs have been completed.
Sellers must declare the car’s write-off status to potential buyers; failure to do so can lead to legal issues and loss of trust.
In the UK, selling a scrap car or a written-off vehicle is made easier by using reputable websites and salvage services that specialise in these categories.
These platforms can help you get the best price for your car, regardless of its condition, and ensure all legal requirements are met.
Always be transparent about the vehicle’s status and history to protect yourself and the new owner.
Ultimately, understanding write-off categories like Cat S, Cat B, and Cat C is essential for making informed decisions, whether you’re buying or scrapping a car.
By knowing the extent of the damage and the implications for repairs and resale, you can navigate the process confidently and get the most value from your car.
What will I need to scrap my car?
We understand that scrapping a car can be an unusual process. To enjoy a hassle-free scrap car collection with Scrap Local, please ensure you are able to provide the required items below.
Every day, many motorists trust Scrap Local to remove their vehicles.
If your car has been written off as a Category S damaged car by your insurance company or you’re just looking to sell your previous Category S, trust in Scrap Local to find the best price for your motor, like some of our happy customers below!
Category S cars are often sold for salvage or parts after a claim, and may be repaired and resold if the repairs are completed to a high standard.
However, the resale value of a Category S car is typically 20-50% lower than that of an equivalent undamaged motor, as buyers take into consideration the condition and the quality of repairs.
It is legal to sell a Category S car as long as you properly disclose its status; failing to declare this could lead to legal consequences, as the new owner may have grounds to make a claim against you for any damages incurred.
Buyers may request a third-party inspection to verify the quality, which can add to your costs as a seller.
Category S are always marked as such in the vehicle database, which affects their marketability and makes it impossible to provide an exact valuation without considering the condition, quality, and weight if sold for scrap.
Heavier cars are generally valued higher for scrap due to their weight.
Providing a Certificate of Roadworthiness can help assure buyers of the car’s safety and quality, further influencing their consideration when deciding to purchase a Cat S car.
If you’re looking to sell your Cat S car privately, fast-track that sale and get a guaranteed price from Scrap Local today!
We offer top cash straight into your bank account when you sell your Cat S car, regardless of the make, model or condition of the vehicle.
Any usable parts are salvaged, and the rest of the vehicle is recycled or, if deemed irreparable (such as Category A cars), crushed in line with strict regulations to ensure safe and legal disposal.
We have hundreds of scrap car buyers waiting to buy your scrap car.