What to do immediately your car gets stolen in South Africa

Posted on August 2, 2025
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Car theft is, unfortunately, a common reality in many parts of South Africa.

If your vehicle is stolen, acting quickly and following the right steps can help improve your chances of recovery and ensure you’re legally and financially protected.

Here’s exactly what to do if your car gets stolen in South Africa:

1. Stay calm and confirm the theft

Before panicking, double-check:

  • You didn’t park somewhere else or forget where you parked.

  • The vehicle wasn’t towed (e.g., due to illegal parking or roadblocks).

  • No family member or friend borrowed it without telling you.

If you’ve confirmed it’s missing—move quickly.

2. Report the theft to the SAPS (South African Police Service) immediately

  • Visit the nearest police station within 24 hours of the theft.

  • Provide the vehicle’s details: registration number, make, model, colour, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), engine number, and any unique identifying marks.

  • Mention the exact time and location where the car was last seen.

  • Obtain a case number—you’ll need this for your insurance claim and to protect yourself legally.

3. Notify your insurance company

  • Call your insurer as soon as you have a police case number.

  • Provide all relevant details and documentation (your ID, driver’s license, car ownership papers).

  • Most insurers in South Africa will wait up to 30 days to see if the vehicle is recovered before finalising your claim.

4. Alert your tracker or vehicle recovery service

If your car is fitted with a tracker (like Tracker SA, Netstar, Cartrack, etc.), contact them immediately. Most services work with SAPS and can help locate and recover your car faster—every minute counts.

5. Inform the licensing department (if required)

Some municipalities require notification of vehicle theft through the licensing department, especially if your car is not recovered. This protects you from being liable for future fines or penalties linked to that vehicle.

6. Watch online and social media listings

Stolen vehicles or parts often resurface on platforms like:

  • Gumtree South Africa

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • OLX

  • Junk Mail

If you see your vehicle (or suspicious listings), do not approach or try to recover it yourself—contact SAPS immediately.

7. Stay informed and vigilant

Unfortunately, stolen cars in South Africa are often:

  • Stripped for parts

  • Used in crimes

  • Smuggled across borders

Even if recovery is unlikely, staying updated with your insurance provider and the SAPS case status can help bring closure or aid in identification if the vehicle turns up.

Quick checklist

  • Report to SAPS and get a case number

  • Notify your insurer

  • Activate your vehicle tracker

  • Monitor online listings

  • Consider re-registering if the car is not recovered

Final thought

Vehicle theft can feel like a violation, but taking the right steps quickly can help reduce the long-term impact. Prioritise your safety, follow the legal process, and work with both SAPS and your insurer to protect yourself.