https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides UK salvage-auction and MOT-history guides, built on real DVSA test data. en-gb Fri, 09 Oct 2026 23:21:03 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/buying-a-salvage-car-with-no-keys https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/buying-a-salvage-car-with-no-keys What a no-keys salvage lot means for starting, moving and registering the car, what to budget before you bid, and how far no-keys lots actually go for less. Fri, 25 Sep 2026 12:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-damage-types-explained https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-damage-types-explained Front End, Mechanical, Water/Flood, Burn and the rest: what each Copart damage label means, what it leaves out, and what each damage type goes for. Fri, 25 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-uk-fees-explained https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-uk-fees-explained Copart fees can turn a good deal into a bad one. Every fee broken down with a real worked example on a £2,000 car. Fri, 25 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvagemarket-buyer-fees-explained https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvagemarket-buyer-fees-explained SalvageMarket's full buyer fee table, the £35 admin fee and the yard's site fee, what it costs to join, and where it works out dearer or cheaper than Copart. Fri, 25 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-vs-synetiq-vs-motorhog https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-vs-synetiq-vs-motorhog Motorhog merged into SYNETIQ, which IAA now owns. Who really sells UK salvage, and both houses' fee schedules run on the same hammer prices. Fri, 25 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cheapest-way-to-check-a-car-history-uk https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cheapest-way-to-check-a-car-history-uk Car history checks range from free to over twenty pounds. What each tier actually gives you, and how to check a car for the least money. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-experian-autocheck https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-experian-autocheck Experian AutoCheck trades on the Experian name from credit checking. What its report covers, what is free to find out first, and when it is worth paying. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-rac-vehicle-check https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-rac-vehicle-check RAC's check runs £9.98 to £29.97 by tier. What each tier covers, what our free checker already gives you, and when the RAC's extra data is worth paying for. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-aa-car-check https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-aa-car-check The AA's check is HPI-branded data at £14.99 a report or £29.99 for multiple. What it covers, what is free from us first, and when to pay for it. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-total-car-check https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-total-car-check Total Car Check runs £3.99 to £9.99 a report, cheaper in a pack. What its Silver and Gold tiers cover, what our free checker gives first, and when to pay. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-motorcheck https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-motorcheck Motorcheck runs £9.99 to £3.99 a report, and every tier covers finance and stolen checks unlike rivals. What that means, and what our checker gives free first. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/hpi-check-before-buying-a-used-car https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/hpi-check-before-buying-a-used-car A running order for a private used car purchase: what to check before you travel, what to check at the viewing, and what to run on the day you pay. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/hpi-check-on-a-salvage-car https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/hpi-check-on-a-salvage-car If the auction already told you it is a Cat S, half a history report tells you nothing new. The parts that still matter when you are buying salvage on purpose. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/is-there-a-free-hpi-check https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/is-there-a-free-hpi-check Much of what people want from a paid check is already free from the DVSA and DVLA. What costs nothing, what nobody can give away, and how to tell. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-spot-a-clocked-car https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-spot-a-clocked-car Clocking is easier than ever and still common. The mileage evidence trail every UK car leaves for free, and the physical signs that back it up. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 05:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-is-an-hpi-check https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-is-an-hpi-check HPI is a brand name that became the generic term for a UK history check. What it really is, which registers it pulls, and when it is worth paying for. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 04:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-check-outstanding-finance-on-a-car https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-check-outstanding-finance-on-a-car A car with finance owing can cost a trader both the car and the money. Who the 1964 Act protects, how the registers work, and what to do if finance shows. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 04:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-does-an-hpi-check-show https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-does-an-hpi-check-show A field by field walk through of a UK vehicle history report: what each section means, which parts matter most, and how to read a result that is not clear cut. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 04:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/britains-most-and-least-reliable-vans-mot-data https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/britains-most-and-least-reliable-vans-mot-data We ranked 34 vans by MOT pass rate across 2.2 million tests. Three of the bottom five are the same van under different badges, and the Transit sits 22nd. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/can-you-insure-a-cat-s-car https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/can-you-insure-a-cat-s-car Yes, a repaired Cat S car can be insured in the UK. Here is how insurers treat the marker, what evidence helps, and which brokers quote them daily. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 03:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/flipping-cars-legally-in-the-uk https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/flipping-cars-legally-in-the-uk When does flipping salvage cars make you a trader, and what are your legal and tax obligations? A plain-English guide. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 03:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/buying-salvage-without-a-trade-licence https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/buying-salvage-without-a-trade-licence You do not need a trade licence to buy from Copart UK. What a trade licence actually changes, and what a private buyer needs to sort out instead. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 03:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/do-you-have-to-declare-a-write-off https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/do-you-have-to-declare-a-write-off Selling a Cat S or Cat N car and not sure of your legal obligations? Here is what you must disclose, and what happens if you do not. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/is-category-n-worth-buying https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/is-category-n-worth-buying Cat N salvage is the sweet spot for most UK flippers. What non-structural really covers, why it flips well, and the traps that eat margins. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cat-s-vs-cat-n https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cat-s-vs-cat-n Structural versus non-structural write-offs compared: cost to return to the road, resale discounts, insurance, finance and which one to buy first. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-does-cat-s-mean https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-does-cat-s-mean Category S means an insurer recorded structural damage and decided repair was uneconomical. What that means for buying, repairing, insuring and reselling. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-does-cat-n-mean https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-does-cat-n-mean Category N means a non-structural insurance write-off. What it covers, why it is the easiest salvage to flip, and the hidden traps that catch beginners. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-reregister-a-cat-s-car https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-reregister-a-cat-s-car What re-registering a Cat S car means since the DVLA inspection ended in 2015: the V62 logbook, the £25 fee or free keeper slip, and getting back on the road. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-sell-a-repaired-cat-s https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-sell-a-repaired-cat-s A repaired Cat S faces more buyer resistance than a Cat N. The evidence, presentation and pricing that get you closest to book value. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/certificate-of-destruction-what-it-means https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/certificate-of-destruction-what-it-means A Certificate of Destruction is not another write-off category, it is the end of the road. What it is, who issues one, and why it should never be for sale. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 01:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-buy-from-copart-uk https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-buy-from-copart-uk Registration, deposits, fees, bidding, payment, collection and paperwork: the complete first-timer's walkthrough for Copart UK auctions. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-basic-vs-premier-membership https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-basic-vs-premier-membership Basic vs Premier is how Copart US sells membership. What Copart UK actually charges to join, the volume fee tier that matters, and the deposit. Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-transport-a-salvage-car-home-uk https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-transport-a-salvage-car-home-uk Won a Copart lot? Now you have to get it home. Trailer, transporter or Copart delivery, with real costs and the rules. Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-run-and-drive-means-at-copart https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-run-and-drive-means-at-copart Run and Drive is one of the most misunderstood labels at salvage auction. What it guarantees, what it does not, and how to use it. Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-mot-reliability-predict-salvage-auction-price https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-mot-reliability-predict-salvage-auction-price Median recorded closing bids joined to DVSA reliability data. The bids are unverified as sales and the correlation is weak. Wed, 09 Sep 2026 07:30:41 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cheapest-reliable-makes-at-salvage-auction https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cheapest-reliable-makes-at-salvage-auction We joined recorded salvage closing bids to DVSA pass rates by make. Seven makes undercut the market median and beat the national MOT average; one does neither. Wed, 09 Sep 2026 07:11:04 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-actually-moves-a-salvage-hammer-price https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-actually-moves-a-salvage-hammer-price The factors linked to salvage bidding, with recorded closing-bid examples and clear evidence limits. Tue, 08 Sep 2026 11:21:55 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-gov-uk-vehicle-check https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-gov-uk-vehicle-check GOV.UK's free MOT and tax checks never cover write-off, finance or stolen status. What they show, what's missing, and how to check the rest for free first. Mon, 07 Sep 2026 07:09:02 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-common-mot-failures https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-common-mot-failures One in four cars fails its first MOT. Here is exactly what they fail on, using the latest DVSA figures, and what each fault means if you are buying salvage. Sun, 06 Sep 2026 11:44:06 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-common-mot-advisories https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-common-mot-advisories An advisory does not fail the car, but the same defects often turn up as fails next time. The full DVSA ranking, and how often each one gets acted on first. Sun, 06 Sep 2026 11:44:06 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-warning-lights https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-warning-lights Engine and system warning lights left lit fail 2.18 percent of car MOTs. The light itself costs nothing to fix; what triggered it is the real question. Sun, 06 Sep 2026 11:15:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-wheels https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-wheels Loose wheel nuts, worn bearings and a distorted rim fail 0.95 percent of car MOTs. Cheap to fix, but one of the most dangerous defects to ignore. Sun, 06 Sep 2026 10:30:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-driveshafts https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-driveshafts Driveshaft and CV joint faults fail 1.59 percent of car MOTs, almost all a split CV boot. Cheap if caught early, a full driveshaft if not. Sun, 06 Sep 2026 07:23:48 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-a-cars-age-affect-its-mot-pass-rate https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-a-cars-age-affect-its-mot-pass-rate Pass rates fall as cars age, but not in a straight line. We grouped 2,005 models by registration year and found a dip that recovers for older cars. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 11:21:26 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-high-mileage-mean-a-worse-mot-pass-rate https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-high-mileage-mean-a-worse-mot-pass-rate Pass rate drops as mileage climbs, until it does not. Cars averaging over 130,000 miles buck the trend, driven by hybrids, vans and taxis built for distance. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 11:21:26 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-fuel-type-affect-mot-pass-rate https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-fuel-type-affect-mot-pass-rate We compared petrol against diesel in 276 models with enough tests of each. Petrol has the higher first-time MOT pass rate in 229 of them, 83 percent. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 11:21:26 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-where-you-live-affect-your-mot-pass-rate https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/does-where-you-live-affect-your-mot-pass-rate We split 34 million MOT tests by postcode area. Outer London tests 20+ points better than parts of Scotland and the South West, even on the same model. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 11:21:26 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-fuel-type-fails-its-mot-on-the-most-dangerous-defects https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-fuel-type-fails-its-mot-on-the-most-dangerous-defects Electric cars have the highest dangerous-defect share of any fuel type, and it holds up even without Tesla in the mix. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 11:14:07 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-cars-fail-their-mot-on-the-most-dangerous-defects https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-cars-fail-their-mot-on-the-most-dangerous-defects Not how often a car fails its MOT, but how severe the fault is. Tesla's Model 3 and BMW's biggest engines top the list against a 5.11% national average. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 07:36:14 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-car-models-beat-their-age-mot-pass-rate https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-car-models-beat-their-age-mot-pass-rate 244 models' MOT pass rate vs the national average for cars the same age. Porsche and Mercedes-Benz pull furthest ahead; panel vans fall furthest behind. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 07:29:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-car-brands-beat-their-age-mot-pass-rate https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/which-car-brands-beat-their-age-mot-pass-rate 34 manufacturers ranked by MOT pass rate against the national average for cars of the same age. Porsche and Lexus lead; Renault and Chevrolet trail furthest. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 07:29:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/britains-most-and-least-reliable-car-brands-mot-data https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/britains-most-and-least-reliable-car-brands-mot-data We ranked all 51 UK manufacturers by first-time MOT pass rate, from Ferrari at 95.9% to Chevrolet at 62.8%. The full table, and what it actually tells you. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 07:24:06 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/diesel-vs-petrol-mot-pass-rate-by-manufacturer https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/diesel-vs-petrol-mot-pass-rate-by-manufacturer We split MOT pass rate by fuel within 31 manufacturers. Petrol has the higher first-time rate in 28 of them; only Fiat and Mitsubishi buck the trend. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 07:24:06 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-and-least-reliable-cars-mot-data https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-and-least-reliable-cars-mot-data We analysed 33 million UK MOT tests to rank which cars pass and fail most. The full most-reliable and least-reliable tables, and what the numbers really mean. Sat, 05 Sep 2026 07:17:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/crashed-tesla-and-ev-salvage https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/crashed-tesla-and-ev-salvage Electric car salvage looks tempting on price, but the battery changes everything. What to know before you bid on a damaged EV. Wed, 02 Sep 2026 11:29:39 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-advisories-by-fuel-type https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-advisories-by-fuel-type Suspension and brake advisory rates track almost exactly with each fuel's newer, lower-mileage fleet. Tyre tread advisories are the one item that does not. Thu, 27 Aug 2026 19:15:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-advisories-explained https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-advisories-explained An advisory is not a fail, but it is a warning of the next bill. How to read MOT advisory items when buying used or salvage, and which ones actually matter. Sat, 22 Aug 2026 15:12:31 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-common-specific-mot-defects https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/most-common-specific-mot-defects Broken down to the exact wording, not broad DVSA categories, and restricted to defects that actually failed the car, not advisories. From 34 million real tests. Sat, 22 Aug 2026 15:12:31 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-check-if-a-car-is-stolen https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-check-if-a-car-is-stolen Buy a stolen car and you lose it and the money, with no comeback. The police marker, the V5C and VIN checks, and the warning signs that come first. Sun, 16 Aug 2026 17:00:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/toyota-hybrid-salvage-buying-guide https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/toyota-hybrid-salvage-buying-guide Toyota hybrids are among the most reliable salvage flips going, if you understand the battery. What to buy, what to check, and what to pay. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:26:03 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/range-rover-salvage-high-reward-higher-risk https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/range-rover-salvage-high-reward-higher-risk Range Rover salvage offers big potential profit and big potential pain. What to target, what to fear, and how to price the risk. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:26:03 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/ford-fiesta-salvage-buying-guide https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/ford-fiesta-salvage-buying-guide The Ford Fiesta is the ideal first salvage flip: cheap parts, endless demand, simple to fix. What to buy, what to avoid, and what to pay. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:21:18 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/vauxhall-corsa-salvage-buying-guide https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/vauxhall-corsa-salvage-buying-guide The Vauxhall Corsa is a salvage-flip staple: huge supply, deep discounts, easy to fix. How to pick a winner and what to pay. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:21:18 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/transit-and-sprinter-van-flipping-guide https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/transit-and-sprinter-van-flipping-guide Vans flip on different rules to cars. Why tradesmen forgive a marker cars can't, the damage patterns to expect, and what actually decides a van's resale. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:21:18 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-carvertical https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-carvertical Comparing a free official-data UK check against carVertical's paid multi-country report. What each actually gives a UK buyer, and when you need which. Thu, 13 Aug 2026 19:11:16 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-hpi-check https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-prophet-vs-hpi-check HPI Check is the UK's best-known vehicle history brand, but the name is not the data. What HPI covers, and how our free checker and Full HPI Report compare. Thu, 13 Aug 2026 19:11:16 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/paintless-dent-repair-what-it-fixes-and-what-it-cant https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/paintless-dent-repair-what-it-fixes-and-what-it-cant PDR turns a big panel bill into a few hours' work, but only on the right kind of dent. What actually qualifies, what a job costs, and where it stops working. Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:21:07 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/glass-replacement-costs-what-a-unit-really-means https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/glass-replacement-costs-what-a-unit-really-means Every glass unit prices the same in our repair model, but a windscreen with ADAS costs more to fit than a side window. What the flat rate covers and misses. Sat, 18 Jul 2026 04:12:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/suspension-and-wheel-damage-what-it-really-costs https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/suspension-and-wheel-damage-what-it-really-costs A kerbed wheel or bent track rod rarely shows in a photo. The two severity tiers our repair model uses, and why this damage catches beginners out most. Sat, 18 Jul 2026 03:05:28 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/motor-trade-insurance-for-part-time-flippers https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/motor-trade-insurance-for-part-time-flippers A private car policy will not cover buying, storing or driving cars you do not own to sell. What trade insurance covers, and questions to ask a broker first. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:15:00 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/chassis-leg-damage-repairable-or-scrap https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/chassis-leg-damage-repairable-or-scrap Structural damage caps a deal grade outright in our scoring model. What chassis leg damage means, and when a bent shell is still worth bidding on. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:02:29 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/spotting-electrical-damage-from-a-salvage-listing https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/spotting-electrical-damage-from-a-salvage-listing Electrical faults do not photograph as obviously as a dented panel, and our model prices this category cautiously by default. How to spot the warning signs. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:02:29 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-price-panel-damage-from-auction-photos https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-price-panel-damage-from-auction-photos Before you bid, you have to turn listing photos into a repair number. The two questions that matter for every panel, and the cost tiers our model uses. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 03:35:24 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/vin-decoding-for-salvage-buyers https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/vin-decoding-for-salvage-buyers A VIN is not just a serial number. What the 17-character structure encodes, how to read it on a UK car, and the fraud check to run before you pay. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 03:33:34 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-photograph-a-rebuilt-car-so-it-sells https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-photograph-a-rebuilt-car-so-it-sells Our Cat N selling guide covers the basics. This one goes deeper: the shot list, lighting, evidence flat-lay and video walkaround that build buyer confidence. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 03:04:24 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-titles-vs-uk-categories-importers https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/salvage-titles-vs-uk-categories-importers A US salvage or rebuilt title does not map onto Cat S or Cat N, and the DVLA will not know automatically. What changes when an import lands on UK plates. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 03:02:41 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/old-cat-c-and-cat-d-write-offs-how-they-map-to-s-and-n https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/old-cat-c-and-cat-d-write-offs-how-they-map-to-s-and-n If a history check or old V5C shows Cat C or Cat D, that predates the 2017 rule change. What those categories meant and why they do not map to S and N. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 02:34:11 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-copart-uk-deposits-work https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-copart-uk-deposits-work A refundable deposit sets your bidding limit on Copart UK. What the deposit actually does, what happens when you win, and why forfeiting one is expensive. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:33:01 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-buy-it-now-vs-bidding https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-buy-it-now-vs-bidding Some Copart UK lots offer a fixed Buy It Now price before the auction opens. When taking it beats waiting for the live sale, and when it is a trap. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:33:01 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/where-to-find-used-car-parts-uk https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/where-to-find-used-car-parts-uk New parts eat a salvage repair budget fastest. Where UK flippers actually source used panels, mechanicals and electrics without getting burned. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:03:12 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/reading-a-copart-lot-page-like-a-professional https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/reading-a-copart-lot-page-like-a-professional Every field on a Copart UK lot page tells you something, if you know where to look. A walkthrough of what actually matters and what beginners skim past. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:02:06 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-bidding-strategy-pre-bids-vs-live https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/copart-bidding-strategy-pre-bids-vs-live Pre-bidding and live bidding on Copart UK reward different habits. When to set a pre-bid and walk away, when to stay at the screen, and costly mistakes. Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:02:06 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/nine-kinds-of-hidden-damage-auction-photos-wont-show-you https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/nine-kinds-of-hidden-damage-auction-photos-wont-show-you A clean set of lot photos shows what the seller wants you to see. Nine damage types that hide from the camera and blow up a repair budget after you bid. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 23:34:32 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/are-fire-damaged-cars-ever-worth-buying https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/are-fire-damaged-cars-ever-worth-buying Fire damage scares off almost every bidder, which is why the rare genuine deal hides here. What burns clean, what never comes back, and how to tell. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 23:02:09 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-repair-flood-damage https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-repair-flood-damage Fresh water flood cars can be saved. Salt water cars usually can't. The triage checks, the repair sequence, and the walk-away signs. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/should-you-buy-airbag-deployed-cars https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/should-you-buy-airbag-deployed-cars Deployed airbags scare bidders more than they should. Real per-bag costs, the hidden extras, the legal position and when to walk away. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/best-salvage-cars-for-beginners https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/best-salvage-cars-for-beginners The best first flips: Fiesta, Corsa, Yaris, Jazz and Polo. Why parts availability beats glamour, and the formula that keeps losses small. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cat-a-and-cat-b-explained https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/cat-a-and-cat-b-explained Category A and Category B are the two write-off categories you must never buy to put back on the road. Here is exactly what they mean and why. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/finance-on-a-cat-s-or-cat-n-car https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/finance-on-a-cat-s-or-cat-n-car Getting finance on a written-off car is harder but not impossible. Which lenders consider it, and how the category affects your options. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-much-does-a-write-off-reduce-value https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-much-does-a-write-off-reduce-value A Cat S or Cat N marker reduces resale value, but by how much? Realistic percentages by category and how to price your exit. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-inspect-a-salvage-car-from-photos https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-inspect-a-salvage-car-from-photos You usually cannot see a Copart lot in person before bidding. How to read the photos like a pro and spot the damage that kills profit. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/airbag-replacement-costs-uk https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/airbag-replacement-costs-uk Deployed airbags scare bidders and hide real cost. What each airbag and its related parts actually cost to replace in the UK. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/buying-flood-damaged-cars https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/buying-flood-damaged-cars Flood cars can be a bargain or a nightmare. How to tell fresh water from salt, what to check, and when to walk away. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-sell-a-cat-n-car-for-the-most-money https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-sell-a-cat-n-car-for-the-most-money A repaired Cat N can sell close to book value if you present it right. The photos, the advert, the evidence and the pricing that get you top money. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/best-bmws-to-buy-at-salvage-auction https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/best-bmws-to-buy-at-salvage-auction BMW salvage can be very profitable or a coded-module money pit. Which models to target, which to avoid, and what to budget. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-check-if-a-car-has-been-written-off https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-to-check-if-a-car-has-been-written-off Worried a used car is a hidden write-off? The free and paid ways to check a UK car's history, and what each one actually tells you. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-history-free-goldmine https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-history-free-goldmine The free government MOT history record tells you more about a used car than the seller ever will. How to read it like a mechanic. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-a-respray-really-costs https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/what-a-respray-really-costs Paint is one of the biggest repair costs in salvage. Full panel, blend or smart repair: what each costs and when to use it. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-much-can-you-make-flipping-salvage-cars https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/how-much-can-you-make-flipping-salvage-cars Realistic numbers on salvage flipping profit: per car, per month, and what separates people who make money from those who lose it. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/best-time-of-year-to-buy-salvage https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/best-time-of-year-to-buy-salvage Salvage prices move with the seasons and the calendar. When competition softens, when stock rises, and how to time your buying. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-lights-electrics https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-lights-electrics Lamps and electrical faults are the single most common MOT failure at 10.36 percent of cars. What fails, why, and what it costs to fix on a salvage repair. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-suspension https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-suspension Suspension is the second most common MOT failure at 8.65 percent of cars, and unlike lights it can get expensive. What fails and how to price it. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-tyres https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-tyres Tyres are the third most common MOT failure at 6.23 percent, but cause 60 percent of dangerous defects. Cheap to fix, vital to check on any salvage buy. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-brakes https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-brakes Brakes fail 6.10 percent of car MOTs and cause nearly 30 percent of dangerous defects. What fails, what it costs, and why it rarely stops a good salvage flip. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-visibility https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-visibility Visibility items fail 4.65 percent of car MOTs. Mostly cheap wiper faults, but a cracked screen in the wrong place is a bigger bill. What to check. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-corrosion-body https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-corrosion-body Body, chassis and structure faults fail 3.18 percent of car MOTs, and can turn a cheap car into scrap. What fails and why it matters most on salvage. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-emissions https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-emissions Noise, emissions and leaks fail 3.03 percent of car MOTs. Often a cheap sensor, sometimes a catalytic converter or DPF. How to tell which on a salvage buy. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-steering https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/mot-failures-steering Steering faults fail 1.84 percent of car MOTs. Less common, but on an accident salvage a steering fault can point at hidden impact damage. What to check. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/reading-an-mot-failure-sheet https://www.salvageprophet.co.uk/guides/reading-an-mot-failure-sheet An MOT failure sheet is a free inspection someone else paid for. How to turn a list of defects into a real repair number before you bid on a cheap car. Thu, 16 Jul 2026 20:36:58 GMT