Buying a used car always carries some risks. Researching and inspecting the vehicle can make a huge difference to both your safety and finances. So, have you checked that it’s not a repaired write-off?
What is a repaired write-off?
A written-off vehicle is a car that an insurance company has deemed more expensive to repair than the vehicle’s worth. In Queensland, there are two types of written-off vehicles: statutory and repairable.
A statutory write-off has been assessed as a total loss with damage beyond repair and cannot be re-registered anywhere in Australia.
A repairable write-off is a vehicle that has been assessed as a total loss but is not damaged to the level of a statutory write-off. These vehicles can be re-registered after they are repaired and pass a Queensland safety certificate inspection and a written-off vehicle inspection.
What are the potential risks of a repairable write-off?
Private sellers aren’t required to tell you if a vehicle is on the written-off register which can lead to many buyers being unaware of what they are getting themselves into and a high risk of financial loss.
Even after the vehicle has passed the required inspections, a repairable write-off remains on the written-off vehicle register. This can affect the vehicle’s resale value as they are generally worth less than a conventional used vehicle.
Even if a car has been repaired professionally, a repairable write-off can cause some safety concerns along the way such as reduced structural rigidity or integrity.
Furthermore, as it has suffered previous damage which could lead to more costly repairs in the future, many insurance companies won’t provide cover for a repaired write-off. If they do, the price of your insurance premiums will typically be higher than a regular car of the same make and model. Due to the vehicle’s history and condition, you may also have limited coverage.
Consumers should always take caution when they are considering purchasing a repairable write-off vehicle, especially if it is to be a primary vehicle.
Are there any pros to purchasing a repairable write-off?
As a consumer, the main incentive for buying a repaired write-off is the price as it is generally lower than that of an undamaged model of the same age and milage. Outside of this, repairable write-offs offer no advantages over a conventional used car.
How do I know if a used vehicle is a repairable write-off?
Before you buy a second-hand vehicle, check the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) to see if it is recorded as written off. This check will also tell you if the vehicle has outstanding money owing on it.
Deal with someone you can trust
The Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) is the peak body representing the interests of employers in the retail, service, and repair sectors of Queensland’s automotive industry. Look for members displaying the MTA Queensland logo to provide reassurance that you are dealing with someone you can trust.
Find an MTA Queensland member HERE.
3 February 2022
Please note the information contained on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your specific needs or circumstances. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.