What to do when my car is stolen?

auto mechanic performing mot test

Discovering that your car has been stolen can be a distressing experience. Here are the steps you should take once you have discovered that your vehicle has been stolen.

Contact the Police

  • Call the non-emergency number 101 to report the theft or 999 if you see your car being stolen.
  • You can also report online through the police website.
  • Provide the police with details of your car, such as make, model, registration number, color, and any distinguishing features.
  • Obtain a crime reference number from the police. This will be needed for insurance purposes.

Notify Your Insurance Company

  • Contact your car insurance provider as soon as possible to report the theft.
  • Provide them with the crime reference number and any other details they require.
  • Review your policy to understand what is covered and what the next steps are for your claim.

Inform the DVLA

Notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that your car has been stolen.

This can be done online or by phone.

DVLA Contact Number: 0300 790 6802

DLVA Website: Report Stolen Vehicle

This helps to prevent any fraudulent use of your vehicle's registration, and to avoid receiving fines or penalties for offenses committed by the thief using your car.

You will also recieve a refund for any remaining vehicle tax. This is calculated from the date the DVLA gets your information

Alert Your Financing or Leasing Company

If your car is financed or leased, inform the finance or leasing company about the theft and provide them with the police report details.

Keep Documentation

Keep all documentation related to the theft, including the police report, insurance claim, and any correspondence with authorities or your insurance company.


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