Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, but it comes with risks. One of the most important checks you should perform before purchasing a second-hand vehicle is a salvage check. This check helps you determine whether the car has been previously declared a total loss, stolen, or severely damaged.
Many buyers unknowingly purchase salvage vehicles without realizing the potential dangers. These cars may have hidden structural issues, electrical faults, or incomplete repairs that compromise safety and reliability. In this guide, we’ll explain what a vehicle salvage check is, why it’s essential, and how you can perform one before committing to a used car purchase.
What is a Salvage Check?
A vehicle salvage check is a vehicle history report that reveals whether a car has been classified as salvage due to significant damage, theft, or insurance write-off status. When a vehicle is involved in an accident, flood, fire, or theft, insurers assess the damage and decide whether it is financially viable to repair it. If the cost of repairs exceeds a certain percentage of the car’s value, the insurer may classify it as salvage.
In the UK, salvage vehicles are categorized based on the severity of the damage.
Salvage Categories Explained
Category A (Scrap Only)
- The most severe classification
- The vehicle is completely destroyed and cannot be repaired
- Must be crushed and never returned to the road
- Even salvageable parts cannot be reused
Category B (Break for Parts)
- The vehicle has suffered extensive damage, making it unsafe for road use
- It cannot be repaired, but some parts may be salvaged and used in other vehicles
- The chassis must be scrapped
Category S (Structurally Damaged but Repairable)
- The vehicle has sustained structural damage, such as chassis or frame damage
- It can be repaired and returned to the road, but repairs must be done professionally
- Buyers should ensure the car has been repaired to a high standard before purchasing
Category N (Non-Structural Damage but Repairable)
- The vehicle has non-structural damage, such as cosmetic damage, electrical faults, or minor mechanical issues
- It can be repaired and legally driven again
- Some hidden issues may still exist, such as electrical faults or airbag deployment
Why is a Salvage Check Important?
Ensures Your Safety
Many salvage vehicles are repaired and put back on the market. However, not all repairs are done to a high standard. A car that has suffered structural damage may have hidden weaknesses that compromise its safety.
- Poorly repaired vehicles may have weakened frames, making them less resistant to future collisions
- Electrical issues from previous damage can lead to malfunctions in airbags, brakes, or steering systems
- A salvage check helps you avoid unsafe vehicles that could put you and your passengers at risk
Helps You Avoid Insurance Issues
Insurance companies treat salvage vehicles differently. Some insurers may:
- Refuse to cover a previously salvaged car
- Charge higher premiums due to the increased risk
- Require a special inspection before providing coverage
By checking a car’s salvage status before buying, you can avoid unexpected insurance complications and ensure you can get proper coverage.
Protects You from Hidden Costs
A car that has been salvaged and repaired may still have underlying mechanical issues. Some sellers may not disclose previous damage, leaving you with costly repairs down the line.
- Electrical faults may not be immediately visible but can be expensive to fix
- Airbag systems may have been deployed and improperly replaced
- Chassis damage may not be visible but can affect the car’s alignment and handling
A salvage check helps you identify these risks before you buy, saving you from unexpected repair bills.
Affects Resale Value
If you buy a previously salvaged car, its resale value will be significantly lower than a vehicle with a clean history. When you decide to sell it in the future, potential buyers may be hesitant to purchase a car with a salvage history.
- Category S and N vehicles typically sell for 20-40% less than similar cars without a salvage history
- Some buyers and dealerships refuse to buy salvage vehicles altogether
Knowing a car’s history before purchasing ensures you don’t overpay for a vehicle that will quickly lose value.
How to Perform a Salvage Check
Step 1: Get the Vehicle’s Registration Number (VRM)
Before running a check, you’ll need the car’s registration number (license plate).
Step 2: Use a Trusted Vehicle History Check Provider
Several online services provide salvage checks by pulling data from insurance records, the DVLA, and other sources. Some of the most reliable providers include:
- HPI Check
- Motorscan
- Total Car Check
- CarVertical
Step 3: Review the Report
A vehicle history report will provide:
- Salvage category (A, B, S, or N)
- Accident history
- Outstanding finance checks
- MOT history and mileage verification
If the car has been salvaged, carefully assess whether it’s worth buying. Category S and N vehicles can be roadworthy, but you should always inspect them thoroughly.
What to Do If a Car Has Been Salvaged
If a car has a salvage history, consider the following before purchasing:
- Inspect the vehicle with a professional mechanic to ensure repairs were done correctly
- Negotiate a lower price to reflect the car’s diminished value
- Check insurance options to ensure you can get coverage
If the seller is unwilling to provide details about past repairs, it’s best to walk away from the deal.
Vehicle Salvage Check Conclusion
A salvage check is an essential step when buying a used car. It helps you avoid unsafe vehicles, hidden repair costs, and insurance issues while ensuring you get a fair deal.
Before committing to a purchase, always run a vehicle history check to verify the car’s past. This small step can save you from costly mistakes and ensure you drive away with a safe, reliable vehicle.
