Was wondering if a car is a repaired CAT C or CAT D write-off, would this be stated on the car's V5C or only if a history search was carried out on the car?

It'll be on the V5 buddy

Cheers. Any idea where and how the text appears - i.e. will it be obviously stated as CAT C for example?

I should have looked at direct.gov! It actually answered the question for me....which is a first!

It'd be in the bit where it states declared new at first registration. Not sure what it says precisely I would imagine it would say vcar category c/d

Do not rely on the V5C alone.

I've seen them come back from damaged vehicles some years ago and occasionally the messages to tell you it was damaged were missing.

cat D do not show up on V5, Cat C show as accident damage/ repaired on special notes section

cat D do not show up on V5, Cat C show as accident damage/ repaired on special notes section

Correct for cars but Ive heard not on vans where neither show

Then theres smashed cars repaired that were not subject of an insurance co payout so not listed as C or D. Best advice is assume the worst & get it checked before you buy