What should I do if my vehicle is stolen or vandalized?

Discovering that your vehicle has been stolen or vandalized is stressful. Acting quickly and in the right order helps law enforcement and your insurer resolve the situation.

If your vehicle is stolen

1. Call the police right away. File a stolen vehicle report. Provide the make, model, year, color, license plate, and VIN. Ask for the report number and the officer's name.
2. Notify your insurance company. Call the claims line as soon as possible. Have your policy number, vehicle details, and police report number ready. Ask what is covered and what steps to take next.
3. Check for tracking. If your vehicle has a factory or aftermarket GPS or connected-car service, contact the provider and give them the police report number. They may be able to locate the vehicle.
4. Tell your lender or leasing company if the vehicle is financed or leased. They have an interest in the vehicle and may need to be involved.
5. Follow up. Check in with the police and your insurer regularly. If the vehicle is recovered, inspect it carefully before driving and report any damage or missing items to the police and your insurer.

If your vehicle is vandalized

1. Ensure your safety. If you see someone actively damaging the vehicle, do not confront them. Move to a safe place and call the police.
2. Call the police to file a vandalism report. Get the report number.
3. Do not clean or repair anything yet. Take clear photos and video of all damage from multiple angles, including close-ups and wide shots. Note the location, date, and time.
4. Look for witnesses or cameras. Ask nearby businesses or residents if they saw anything or have security footage. Share this with the police.
5. Contact your insurer. Report the damage and ask about your coverage, deductible, and preferred repair shops. Keep all receipts and estimates.

What NOT to do

• Do not confront a thief or vandal. Your safety matters more than the vehicle.
• Do not wash, clean, or repair a vandalized vehicle before documenting the damage.
• Do not delay reporting to police or your insurer; delays can complicate claims.
• Do not post details on social media that could interfere with the investigation.
• Do not assume the vehicle is safe to drive after recovery; have it inspected if there is any doubt.

What to monitor

• Police case updates and whether the vehicle is entered into stolen-vehicle databases.
• Insurance claim status and any requests for additional documents.
• Any traffic tickets, tolls, or parking notices incurred after the theft; report these to police and your insurer.
• Your credit and personal information if documents or keys were inside the vehicle.

How to reduce the risk

• Park in well-lit, busy areas or secure garages when possible.
• Always lock doors, close windows, and remove valuables or hide them from view.
• Use anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks, alarms, or immobilizers.
• Never leave keys, spare keys, or title documents in the vehicle.
• Consider a GPS tracker or connected-car service.

Start by calling the police and your insurer. Keep copies of every report, photo, and receipt. If your vehicle is recovered, have it checked by a trusted mechanic before regular use.