First actions
- Confirm the vehicle is actually missing. Rule out towing, authorized use by a family member, parking changes or another legitimate explanation.
- Contact the police. Report the theft as soon as practicable and keep any report or reference information you are given.
- Do not search in a way that puts you at risk. If you believe you know where the vehicle is, pass that information to law enforcement rather than confronting anyone yourself.
- Prepare accurate vehicle details. Have the plate number, VIN or chassis number, make, model, year, colour, photographs and distinctive features available.
- Activate your AutoWatch alert. If your ownership is already verified, publish the alert immediately so the community has a clear vehicle description.
What makes an alert useful
A strong alert helps a person recognize the vehicle in seconds. Use recent photographs where possible, make sure the plate is correct, and include distinctive features that can be seen from outside the vehicle.
Useful details include
- unique stickers, dents, trim or accessories;
- wheel or rim style;
- roof racks, spoilers, commercial branding or body modifications;
- the last known location and approximate time;
- the direction of travel if reliably known.
Protect your personal information
Do not post your home address, identity documents, ownership documents, full VIN, passwords or unnecessary contact details on social media. AutoWatch separates public alert information from private ownership evidence for this reason.
If someone reports a sighting
Treat a public sighting as a lead, not proof. Record the details, compare them with your vehicle, and provide useful information to the police. Avoid directing friends or members of the public to pursue the vehicle.
Help the right people see the right information
AutoWatch works best when vehicle information is accurate, sightings are reported promptly, and everyone keeps safety first.