Understanding Write-Off Codes

In Australia, write-off vehicles are handled with strict regulations and special attention. Thinking of buying a second-hand car? Before you hand over your cash, it’s super important to know if the vehicle is a write-off. When an automobile is written off, it means it has had major damage or problems in the past. Even if the car looks shiny and new now, it might still have serious issues. That’s why learning how to read and understand write-off codes can save you heaps of money — and headaches!

What Does “Write-Off” Mean?

The word write-off means the car has been in a big accident, flood, fire, or other damage. That was too expensive to fix at the time. The insurance company decided the vehicle wasn’t worth repairing. That car then becomes a “written-off vehicle”.
But not all written-offs are the same. That’s where these codes come in. These codes help you understand what kind of damage the vehicle had. And whether it’s safe to drive or even register again.

The 2 Main Types of Write-Offs

There are two main types in Australia:

1. Statutory Write-Off: These cars are too damaged to ever be fixed safely. You can’t register or drive them again. They’re only good for scrap or parts.
2. Repairable Write-Off: These vehicles can be fixed, but they must be done properly, and they need to pass a safety check. Even then, they may be hard to insure or register.

Understanding which type of write-offs you’re looking at is key to knowing if you should walk away or not.

Learn more about these rules at the PPSR government site.

Why Write-Off Codes Matter When Buying a Used Car

The codes help buyers like you understand the true history of the car. A vehicle may look fine on the outside, but the code will tell you what really happened.

These are some common codes:

• WOVR (Written-Off Vehicle Register): The car is on the official list of damaged vehicles.
• WRC (Write-off Category): Tells you whether it’s statutory or repairable.
• Damage Code: Shows the type of damage, like flood, collision, fire, or hail.

Before you buy, check for these codes. It can stop you from buying a vehicle that’s dangerous, hard to sell, or impossible to insure.

Full list and code meanings: visit Understanding Written-Off Codes – PPSR

How to Check for a Write-Off

To check if a car is written off, you need to do a VIN Check. The VIN is a 17-digit number that acts like a fingerprint for the vehicle. You can find it on:

• The car’s rego papers
• The driver’s side door frame
• Near the bottom of the windscreen

Once you have the VIN, you can check the PPSR report. This report will show if the vehicle has ever been a write-off, has hidden debt, or has been stolen.

Do a check now: VIN Check Australia, PPSR Search from $2

What Else Can a PPSR Report Tell You?

A PPSR check is like a background check for your car. It can tell you:

• If there’s money owing on the vehicle (called hidden debt)
• If it’s been stolen
• If it’s ever been written off
• If it’s safe to buy

Even if the seller seems honest, don’t take the risk. Just one small check can save you from buying a dud.

Quick PPSR & hidden debt check: Car Hidden Debt Check for Australia Motor vehicles

What Happens If You Buy a Write-Off Without Knowing?

If you buy a written-off vehicle and don’t know it:

• You might not be able to register or insure it
• You may have to pay for repairs out of pocket
• The car may not be safe to drive
• You could lose all your money if the motor vehicle can’t be used

That’s why checking write-off codes before you buy is a smart move.

Final Tip Before You Buy

Here’s your checklist before buying a used car:

1. Get the car’s VIN
2. Do a VIN search to match the vehicle
3. Look for write-off codes in the report
4. Read the damage details
5. Avoid buying automobiles with serious history unless you’re ready for the risk

It only takes a few minutes to do — and it might save you thousands.

Don’t Risk It — Check Write-Off Status First!

A car might look perfect, but the write-off history can tell another story. By using tools like the PPSR, VIN Check, and hidden debt check, you can stay safe and buy with confidence.

Always check before you buy. It’s better to be safe than sorry!