What to do if your car is stolen

Once you’ve realised your car has been stolen your first port of call is to let your local police station know.

To do this you just need to call 101 and ask to be transferred to your local police station. ^{Footnote [1]}

You’ll need to make sure you have:

• Your vehicle registration number
• The make and model
• The colour 

You’ll then get a crime reference number, and you’ll need this when you call your insurance company.

After you’ve reported it to the police, they’ll let the DVLA know. You’ll then need to call your insurance company who will then explain how you can make a claim.

If you have your insurance with us, then you can make a claim through your MyAviva account.

If your insurance provider pays out then you’ll need to let the DVLA know as you’ll no longer own the car, they will usually also refund you any remaining vehicle tax.

This depends on your level of coverage. Check your policy document for details about your coverage.

Third-party insurance is the minimum requirement for the UK, this won’t cover you if your car gets stolen. It only covers you if you injure someone or damage their car or property. To cover theft, you’ll need third party, fire and theft or comprehensive cover.

There’s no foolproof way to stop your car from getting stolen, but there’s a few things you can do to help prevent it:

• Remove all valuables or make sure they’re hidden in either the boot or the glove box. Anything can be of value to someone so even if it’s something simple make sure it’s hidden.
• Fit a Thatcham-approved alarm system with tracking. Things like immobilisers and anti-grab sensors can help with tracing your car if its stolen and deter thieves. 
• Always go with potential buyers on a test drive if you’re selling your car.
• Keep your key in a signal-blocking pouch if your car has keyless entry system.
• Double check your car is locked before you leave it, even if you’re only nipping into a shop or are at home.
• Watch where you park. If you’re parking on a street avoid secluded areas, make sure it’s well-lit or try and find a manned car park.

With our car insurance you can choose between comprehensive and third party, fire and theft.

Both will cover you if your car gets stolen but comprehensive has a few more bells and whistles. There’s also a range of add-ons you can choose from. Exclusions and limitations apply.