You walk out of the mall, keys in hand… And your heart stops. Your car is gone. You blink a few times, double-check the row, even click your remote like it might magically summon the car back. But it’s not there.
If this has happened to you, or if it ever does, then you’re not alone. Thousands of South Africans report stolen cars every year. But the way you respond in the first 60 minutes could make all the difference.
Here’s exactly what you should do next.
Step 1: Stay calm and confirm the obvious
Before you panic, triple-check that your car isn’t:
- In a different parking area (we’ve all done it).
- Towed (for blocking a driveway or fire hydrant).
- Clamped or moved by centre security.
If you’re 100% certain that it’s not A, B or C and it’s been stolen, then take a breath and move on to step 2.
Step 2: Notify your tracker company (if you have 1)
If your car’s fitted with a tracking device, get in touch with your provider ASAP. The first few minutes after a theft are crucial for successful recovery. Most trackers can begin a real-time trace instantly, provided the device is active and hasn’t been damaged.
If your tracker helps recover your car, then that’s a big tick in the win column. While you wait, move onto step 3.
Step 3: Report the theft to the SAPS immediately
Get yourself to your nearest police station and open a case. Before you hit the road, make sure that you’ve got your ID, car registration details, description of your vehicle (make, model, colour, any distinguishing features), and the exact location and time of the theft.
The SAPS will give you a case number, which you’ll need for your insurance claim.
Step 4: Contact your insurer
Speaking of insurance claims, now’s the time to call us. If you’re insured with the king, this is a pretty easy call to make. You can notify us on our royally amazing app, or you can WhatsApp us, or you can give us an old-fashioned ring. However, you choose to get in touch, make sure you do so as soon as possible so that we can file your claim.
It’s good to note that time is of the essence. Most insurers require notification within 24 to 48 hours, so don’t wait… Even if you’re hoping the car turns up.
When you do get in touch, remember to have a few details on hand, including the SAPS case number, the full details of what happened, confirmation of your car’s last location, and the tracker report, if applicable and if you’ve got it.
Step 5: Keep records of everything
Jot down the names of everyone you speak to, including the po-po, your insurance consultant, and tracker agents. You should also save emails and SMS notifications, because this kind of info is really handy if there’s any confusion or follow-up needed.
What if your car is recovered?
Right, so what happens if your car is found before your claim is settled? Do you get to keep your car and the pay-out? Probably not. What’s likely to happen is that we’ll check the condition of the car and whether there are any repairs needed. In some cases, even recovered cars are written off.
Once we’ve done a good job investigating the car, we’ll make a call on whether the car will be written off for simply repaired and returned to you in a ‘good as new’ condition, we’ll be in touch to give you the news.
The king has your back
No 1 likes to think about their car being stolen… But it happens more often than you’d expect. Having the right cover in place, knowing what steps to take, and reacting fast can help minimise the stress and maximise your chances of either recovery or a successful claim.
Because when your car vanishes, you’ll want your insurance to appear like magic.
Click here for a commitment-free insurance quote or you can WhatsApp us on 0860 50 50 50
FAQs
1. What should I do first if my car is stolen?
First, stay calm and confirm that your car hasn’t been parked elsewhere, towed, or moved by security. Once you’re 100% sure it’s stolen, contact your tracking company (if applicable) and report the theft to the SAPS immediately.
2. How soon do I need to report a stolen car to the police and my insurer?
You should report the theft to the SAPS and your insurer as soon as possible. Most insurers, including King Price, require notification within 24 to 48 hours of the incident to process a claim efficiently.
3. What information do I need to report a stolen car?
You’ll need your ID, car registration, make and model, colour, any unique features, the location and time of theft, your tracker report (if available), and the SAPS case number for your claim.
4. Can I still claim if my car is recovered after I’ve reported it stolen?
Yes, but the outcome depends on the condition of the recovered car. If the damage is significant, the car might still be written off. Otherwise, it could be repaired and returned to you.
5. Why is it important to keep records after my car is stolen?
Keeping detailed records of conversations, case numbers, emails, and SMS updates can help prevent confusion and make it easier to resolve your claim if any follow-ups are needed.