“A recent survey by ‘What Car?’ has found that just 10.8% of UK car buyers are willing to purchase a vehicle that has been written off and subsequently repaired to roadworthy condition, despite the potential cost savings. The research, which surveyed 1,036 in-market car buyers, found that only 4.8% of respondents had previously bought a write-off that had been repaired, while 6% said they would consider doing so in the future.
Vehicles that have been written off by insurers are put into different categories based on the level of damage, with two categories currently in use – Cat N and Cat S. These categories allow the vehicle to be repaired, returned to the road, and sold on the used market.
Of those surveyed who were not comfortable with the idea of buying a write-off, 54.1% said they wouldn’t be confident the vehicle had been repaired properly. This concern reflects the fact that some buyers may not trust that the repairs have been done to a satisfactory standard or that they will last. With concerns about potential future issues that could arise from a poorly repaired vehicle, it is understandable that many buyers are unwilling to take the risk.
Potential difficulties with reselling the car were cited by 43.1% of respondents, which may be due to the perception that it will be harder to sell a vehicle with a written-off history in the future, even if it has been repaired to a high standard. The stigma attached to write-offs may also make it more difficult for owners to secure insurance or finance.
Additionally, 37% of respondents highlighted other problems appearing as a concern. This could relate to a range of issues such as mechanical faults, problems with the electrics, or other problems arising that could be linked to the vehicle’s past. A write-off may have sustained significant damage, and even if it is repaired to a high standard, there may be lingering issues that could cause problems in the future.
Despite the concerns expressed by many buyers, purchasing a written-off car can be a cost-effective option. These vehicles are often sold at lower prices than similar models without a written-off history, making them attractive to buyers who are on a budget. Furthermore, What Car? research highlights that in most cases, owners don’t find a fault with their purchase.
Source www.whatcar.com
