Salvage Car Repair Costs UK — Complete Guide for 2026
The UK salvage car market is booming. Copart and BCA sell hundreds of thousands of damaged vehicles every year — and with the right knowledge, buyers can make serious returns. But the difference between profit and loss often comes down to one number: your repair cost estimate.
Cat S Repair Costs UK 2026
Cat S vehicles have structural damage — chassis, suspension mounting points, crumple zones. Repairs require specialist bodyshop equipment and must be signed off before re-registration.
Cat N Repair Costs UK 2026
Cat N covers non-structural damage — panels, bumpers, lights, interior, electrics, airbags.
Parts Costs — New vs Salvage vs eBay
Where you source parts has a massive impact on total repair cost.
RepairIQ shows live eBay UK parts listings so you can see real market prices for your specific vehicle before committing to a bid.
The RepairIQ Formula
RepairIQ uses:
- → Parts cost estimates based on vehicle value and damage zone
- → Labour cost based on your selected rate (£40–£120/hr)
- → Copart/auction fees
- → Post-repair inspection costs (Cat S)
- → A contingency buffer
The result: a low/high repair range, a maximum safe bid, and a projected profit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to repair a Cat S car in the UK?
Cat S repairs typically range from £1,200 for minor structural damage to £12,000+ for severe multi-zone structural damage, depending on make, model and labour rate.
How much does it cost to repair a Cat N car in the UK?
Cat N repairs typically start from £300 for cosmetic-only damage, rising to £4,000+ with airbag deployment or electrical damage.
Does parts sourcing affect repair cost significantly?
Yes. Main dealer parts are the most expensive, independent suppliers cost 50–70% of dealer price, and eBay salvage parts can be as low as 15–40% of dealer price.
See your exact repair estimate
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