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Guides / Theft prevention

What to do if your car is stolen

The first calls to make, and how the insurance claim works.

4 min read

Act quickly. The sooner police know, the better the chance of recovery.

Steps

  1. Make sure it wasn't towed; call local towing or parking enforcement if unsure.
  2. Report it to the police with your VIN and plate number, and get a report number.
  3. Call your insurer. Theft is usually covered under comprehensive.
  4. Tell your lender or leasing company.
  5. If you have a tracking service, contact it, but let police handle recovery.

The claim

Insurers often wait a period of time to see if the car is recovered before paying a theft claim. Ask about the timeline and whether rental reimbursement applies.

Educational information, not insurance advice. Discounts and rules vary by state and insurer; ask your insurer about your policy. Secure Motors is not an insurer, agent or broker and takes no commissions.