what does cat s mean

The term "Cat S" stands for "Category S" and is an insurance classification used primarily in the UK for vehicles that have suffered structural damage. This damage affects critical parts of the vehicle's load-bearing structure, such as the chassis, crumple zones, or pillars, but importantly, the car can still be repaired and returned to the road if the repairs are done to a high professional standard. Despite being safe to drive post-repair, Cat S cars must be declared as such for their lifetime, and their history as write-offs affects their resale value and insurance costs. The classification replaced the older Category C in 2017, focusing more on the type of damage rather than just repair costs. Buyers should ensure thorough inspections and repair quality before purchasing a Cat S vehicle, as structural repairs are complex and critical for safety. Cars with a Cat S designation typically cost 30-50% less than similar non-write-off vehicles due to their damaged history and the associated risks.