Discovering your car has been stolen is shocking and stressful. Knowing what to do and what to expect from insurance helps you navigate this difficult situation.
Immediate Steps
1. Confirm It's Actually Stolen
Before panicking, verify:
- Did someone else in your household borrow it?
- Was it towed? Check for signs or call local towing companies
- Did you park somewhere different than you remember?
2. Call the Police
File a police report immediately. You'll need the report number for your insurance claim. Provide:
- Vehicle description (make, model, year, color)
- License plate number
- VIN (from your registration or insurance documents)
- Where and when you last saw the car
- Any distinguishing features
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the theft as soon as possible. Have ready:
- Policy number
- Police report number
- Details about the vehicle and theft
- Contact information
Important
Theft is covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision. If you only have liability insurance, theft is not covered by your auto policy.
What Comprehensive Coverage Pays
If the Car Is Not Recovered
Insurance pays the car's actual cash value (ACV)—its market value at the time of theft—minus your deductible. This is not what you paid or what you owe, but fair market value.
If the Car Is Recovered
- Undamaged: Great news—you get your car back with minimal claim
- Damaged: Insurance pays for repairs minus your deductible
- Totaled: Same as not recovered—you receive ACV
What About Items Inside?
Personal belongings stolen from your car are typically not covered by auto insurance. They may be covered by your homeowners or renters insurance, subject to that policy's deductible.
The Claims Process
Waiting Period
Most insurers wait 30 days before settling theft claims, allowing time for the vehicle to be recovered. During this time, rental reimbursement coverage (if you have it) can help with transportation.
Investigation
The insurer will investigate the claim. Be prepared for questions about:
- Circumstances of the theft
- Who had access to keys
- Vehicle's condition and features
- Any modifications or upgrades
This investigation is standard procedure, not an accusation.
Valuation
The insurer determines your car's ACV using:
- Year, make, model, trim level
- Mileage
- Condition
- Local market prices
- Optional equipment
Settlement
Once the waiting period passes and investigation is complete, you'll receive a settlement offer. You can negotiate if you believe the valuation is too low.
Gap Insurance
If you owe more on your car loan than the car is worth, gap insurance covers the difference. Without gap coverage, you're responsible for paying off the remaining loan balance after the insurance payout.
What to Do While Waiting
- Keep documentation: Maintain records of all communications
- Continue payments: If you have a car loan, keep making payments until the claim is settled
- Use rental coverage: If you have rental reimbursement, get a rental car
- Cancel services: Contact any subscription services (SiriusXM, OnStar) to pause or cancel
If Your Car Is Recovered
Police may find your vehicle. What happens next depends on timing and condition:
- Before settlement: The claim continues based on any damage
- After settlement: The insurance company owns the car and typically sells it at auction
Preventing Future Theft
- Always lock doors and close windows
- Never leave keys in the car
- Park in well-lit, populated areas
- Use anti-theft devices
- Consider a tracking device
- Don't leave valuables visible
Impact on Your Insurance
Comprehensive claims for theft typically have less impact on premiums than collision claims since you're not at fault. However, multiple comprehensive claims can affect rates. Living in a high-theft area may already be factored into your premium.
Having your car stolen is a violation, but knowing the claims process helps you navigate it effectively. Act quickly, document everything, and don't hesitate to advocate for fair value if you believe the settlement offer is too low.