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Learn how insurers, buyers and cash-for-cars services value written-off cars in South Africa. Step-by-step valuation, legal notes, and expert value tips.
In South Africa, a car is declared "written-off" by an insurer when repair costs exceed a certain percentage of your vehicle's pre-accident market value, typically between 60% and 80%. This means your car is no longer considered financially viable to repair, and its status is officially recorded as such. Written-off cars may be classified for salvage, parts sale, or restricted to off-road use only. Accurately valuing such a vehicle is essential when deciding whether to sell, negotiate with insurers, or explore salvage options.
Choosing between repair and sale hinges on a realistic value assessment. If your car is written off, repairs usually exceed practical value, with insurers only willing to pay out a market-related sum. Sell Your Damaged Car offers a straightforward way to turn written-off vehicles into cash, but knowing what your car is worth is the first step to getting a competitive cash offer or settling an insurance claim fairly.
| Scenario | Average Repair Cost | Estimated Value Retained (Post-Repair) |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Accident | R25,000 | 60-80% of pre-damage value |
| Major Structural Damage | R75,000+ | Often below 50% |
| Written-Off/Total Loss | Above market value | Insurance payout or salvage value only |
As shown, written-off status effectively removes almost all regular value retention, shifting focus to salvage or parts price.
Valuing a written-off car involves assessing both its pre-accident market value (what it could fetch if undamaged) and its salvage value (worth in current condition for parts or recycling). Insurers, buyers, and salvage specialists may use different methods, but most apply these main criteria:
Some valuation methods include consulting recent auction results, referencing retail/dealer guides, and leveraging online estimation tools. Transparency helps: accurate photos, full paperwork, and honest condition reports boost valuation accuracy and credibility.
Written-off vehicles in South Africa require special handling. Once a car is marked "code 3" (rebuilt) or "code 4" (permanently unfit), it may not return to the road, only be sold for parts or scrap. The deregistration process must be completed at your local licensing office, and ownership transfer includes a legal affidavit on the car's status. Sell Your Damaged Car offers assistance with all associated paperwork, minimising stress and ensuring compliance.
If your car is under finance, your insurer will typically settle the outstanding balance first. The remaining balance after settlement may be paid to you, or, in some cases, you may owe a shortfall.
| Damage Type | Typical Salvage Value Impact |
|---|---|
| Engine Failure | -40% to -70% of pre-accident value |
| Flood/Fire Damage | -60% to -80% (parts may be unusable) |
| Body/Panel Damage | -30% to -60% |
| Structural Chassis Damage | High reduction, often code 4 (scrap only) |
These ranges are broad estimates-each written-off car is unique, and market demand for parts can shift values higher or lower depending on make and model.
After sale and collection, the written-off car is typically processed for parts salvage, metal recycling, or in rare cases (if suitable), may be rebuilt for non-road use. Deregistration completes your legal responsibility. Payment from reputable buyers like Sell Your Damaged Car is typically immediate after vehicle handover and paperwork verification.
Seasoned automotive specialists dedicated to helping you turn your damaged or non-running vehicle into cash fast and hassle-free.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Product availability, pricing, and specifications are subject to change. Always verify current details on the retailer's website before making a purchase. We may earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases.
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