My stolen car was recovered, now what?

Having your car stolen is one of the most shocking experiences you can go through. The good news is that with vehicle tracking technology and the quick action of law enforcement, many stolen vehicles are successfully recovered. But here’s the part most people don’t know: getting your car back isn’t as simple as arriving at the yard and driving away.

Here’s what you should do when your car is stolen, what to expect if it is recovered, and what you’ll need to get it safely released back into your hands.

Reporting the theft
If your car is stolen, the very first step is to contact your vehicle tracking company. The sooner they know, the sooner they can activate recovery teams and start working with SAPS to locate your car. Every minute counts.

You must also report the theft to the South African Police Service (SAPS). This needs to be done within 24 hours of when you notice the theft, even if you only realise it after returning from a trip or waking up the next morning.

Most people think of this step only for insurance purposes, but the case number also gets your vehicle flagged on the SAPS circulation system. That flag then locks your car’s record on NaTIS, the Department of Transport’s National Traffic Information System, and marks it as stolen. Until SAPS clears it, nothing further can be done with that car’s licence or registration.

When your vehicle is recovered
So the call comes in and your car has been recovered. Relief floods in, but you should not expect to drive it home the same day. Legally, SAPS has to clear the vehicle before it can go back on the road.

Why? Because the system still shows it as stolen. Without clearance, you won’t be able to renew your vehicle licence, transfer ownership if you sell it, and you could even be arrested for driving a car that’s technically still flagged as stolen.

In some cases, SAPS may also impound the vehicle for further investigation, such as fingerprinting or forensic checks. This isn’t unusual, and it’s the investigating officer’s call.

Releasing your vehicle
Here’s the important part: you do not pay SAPS to release your car. If anyone asks for cash, airtime or a “release fee”, it’s a scam.

What you will need is the correct documentation. To collect your vehicle from the safeguarding unit, make sure you have:

• Your identity document;
• Proof of address (FICA documentation);
• Original vehicle registration papers (or bank-stamped copies if financed);
• Proof of purchase if your vehicle has a new engine or was bought built-up or used.

Also keep the contact details of your investigating officer handy and liaise with them to navigate the process.

Having your stolen car recovered is a huge relief. The steps that follow may feel like admin, but they are there to protect you and make sure your vehicle is legally and safely back on the road. While the paperwork may feel frustrating, remember, your tracking company and SAPS investigating officer are there to guide you through it.

Take a moment now to check that your tracking service is active and that your contact details are current. A few minutes today could keep you covered and ensure that support is there when it matters.