That’s when you find out your car is a CAT S car—also known as a Category S write-off. And now you’re wondering, “Are CAT S cars more expensive to insure?” Well, you’re in the right place because we’re going to break this down for you in simple terms, with a little bit of wit along the way, of course.
First Things First: What on Earth is a CAT S Car?
Before we start talking insurance, let’s rewind for a second. If you’re thinking, “Wait, is CAT S some sort of feline disaster?”—don’t worry. It’s a term from the world of car insurance and car damage.
A CAT S car is one that’s been involved in an accident where the damage was so severe the insurance company declared it a write-off. However, the car was still repairable, and it went through a proper fix-up. So, while it’s been in an accident, the car is back on the road, looking good as new.
In the world of used cars, these cars are often priced lower than their non-accident counterparts, which can make them attractive for budget-conscious buyers. But repair costs and past damage can have a ripple effect when it comes to insuring the car.
So, Are CAT S Cars More Expensive to Insure?
Short Answer: Yes, generally speaking, they are. But let’s not leave it at that—let’s unpack the reasons behind this and explore how much more expensive it can really be.
Why Is Insurance More Expensive for CAT S Cars?
- Increased Risk of Future Damage Even though a CAT S car is repaired, there’s always the concern that it might not be as structurally sound as a car that’s never been in an accident. Insurers might view it as a higher risk, especially if the previous repairs weren’t up to their standards or if there’s a possibility of hidden damage that could cause future problems.
- Lower Resale Value Since the car’s history includes significant damage, it’s going to be worth less on the market compared to a car with no such history. If you’re insuring a CAT S car, the depreciation rate could be faster, which means if you need to make a claim, the insurer might pay out less than they would for a non-accident vehicle.
- Parts and Repairs Can Be Costlier Replacing parts or repairing a CAT S car can sometimes be more complicated. The original repair might have used non-genuine or aftermarket parts, which might be harder to replace, and that drives up costs when it’s time to fix things again.
- Limited Availability of Repair Records Not all repairs are documented with the same level of detail. If you can’t get hold of a full history of repairs, the insurer might charge you more because there’s a bit of an unknown factor—especially if they’re worried about past damage affecting the safety or longevity of the car.
How Much More Expensive Is Insurance for a CAT S Car?
While it’s true that CAT S cars generally have higher insurance premiums, how much more you’ll pay depends on several factors. Let’s break it down:
| Factor | Impact on Insurance Costs |
|---|---|
| Car Model & Age | Older cars tend to be cheaper to insure, but rarer or more expensive models could still cost more to cover. |
| Previous Damage | The severity of the previous accident and repairs can lead to a higher premium, especially if it was a major crash. |
| Insurance Type (Comprehensive/Third-Party) | Comprehensive cover will be more expensive, but it’s often necessary for CAT S cars. Third-party insurance might be cheaper but could leave you more exposed. |
| Location | If you’re in a high-risk area with high theft or accident rates, expect a higher premium. |
| Driver’s Experience & Age | Young or inexperienced drivers will pay more for a CAT S car, as insurers view them as riskier. |
In general, you might find your premiums 10-20% higher than those for an equivalent non-CAT S car, though the exact price will depend on the above factors. For example, if you were paying around £500 a year for insurance on a non-CAT S version of the car, you might be looking at around £550-£600 for the same model as a CAT S.
Tips for Saving on Insurance for Your CAT S Car
If you’re determined to go for a CAT S car, or you’ve already bought one and want to make sure you’re not paying an arm and a leg for insurance, here are some tips to help reduce your premiums:
- Shop Around Different insurers will treat CAT S cars differently, so it’s always worth getting multiple quotes. Some may specialize in high-risk vehicles, while others might offer discounts for certain types of drivers or vehicles.
- Consider a Higher Deductible If you’re comfortable with the idea of paying a higher excess (deductible) in the event of a claim, this could lower your monthly premiums. Just be sure you have the funds available if something does happen.
- Use a Specialist Insurer Some insurers specialize in providing coverage for non-standard vehicles like CAT S cars. These companies may offer more reasonable premiums compared to the more traditional ones.
- Avoid Modifications Any modifications to your CAT S car—whether it’s a new exhaust, alloys, or performance chips—could increase your premiums. Keep the car as close to standard as possible to avoid extra costs.
- Track Your Mileage Many insurers will offer lower premiums if you drive less. If you’re not commuting every day or using your car for long trips, report your low mileage to get a discount.
Final Thoughts
So, are CAT S cars more expensive to insure? The answer is, generally, yes, but not by a massive amount. While insurers will factor in the car’s history and potential risks, it’s still possible to find reasonable insurance premiums with the right strategy.
If you’re thinking about buying a CAT S car, or already have one, don’t let the higher insurance costs be a dealbreaker. Instead, approach it with knowledge, shop around, and consider taking some steps to reduce your premiums. With the right approach, you can enjoy driving your CAT S car without the fear of overpriced insurance premiums ruining the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CAT S Cars and Insurance
1. What is a CAT S car?
A CAT S car is a vehicle that has been written off by an insurance company due to significant damage but has since been repaired and deemed roadworthy. The “S” stands for structural damage, meaning the car’s frame or chassis was affected.
2. Are CAT S cars more expensive to insure?
Yes, generally speaking, CAT S cars tend to have higher insurance premiums. This is due to the potential risks associated with previous structural damage, the possibility of hidden issues, and the fact that repairs may not always be as durable as factory standards.
3. Why is insurance more expensive for CAT S cars?
Insurance premiums are higher for CAT S cars because they are seen as riskier. The potential for future damage or costly repairs, a lower resale value, and the need for comprehensive insurance coverage contribute to the increased cost.
4. How much more expensive is insurance for a CAT S car?
Insurance for a CAT S car can be about 10-20% higher than a comparable non-accident vehicle. However, the exact increase depends on factors like the car’s model, age, the severity of past damage, and your driving history.
5. Can I get insurance for a CAT S car?
Yes, you can get insurance for a CAT S car, but it may be more costly compared to insuring a non-accident vehicle. It’s important to shop around and find an insurer that specializes in high-risk or non-standard vehicles.
6. Is it worth buying a CAT S car?
Buying a CAT S car can be a great option if you’re looking for a good deal on a used car, as they are often priced lower than non-accident vehicles. However, it’s essential to factor in higher insurance costs and check the quality of the repairs before purchasing.
7. Does the severity of the previous damage affect insurance rates?
Yes, the extent of the previous damage to the car can affect your insurance premiums. More severe damage, especially if it impacted the car’s structure or safety, will likely lead to higher insurance rates.
8. Can I reduce insurance costs for my CAT S car?
Yes, you can reduce costs by shopping around for multiple quotes, considering a higher deductible, avoiding modifications, and keeping your mileage low. Using a specialist insurer that handles high-risk vehicles might also help lower premiums.
9. What type of insurance do I need for a CAT S car?
You will need comprehensive insurance and collision coverage for a CAT S car, as well as third-party liability insurance. Some insurers may also recommend gap insurance to cover the difference between the car’s market value and the remaining lease or loan amount.
10. Can I insure a modified CAT S car?
It’s possible, but modifications to a CAT S car—whether aesthetic or performance-based—can increase your insurance premiums. Insurers may view these as additional risks, so it’s best to keep the car as close to its original condition as possible to minimize costs.
