- Missing Vehicle: If you wake up one morning, head out to your parking spot, and see that your car has disappeared, it could have been stolen.
- Forced Entry: Examine your car for signs of forced entry, like broken windows or pry marks around the doors and steering column.
- Missing Items: Check for personal belongings or important documents left in the vehicle; stolen items may indicate theft.
- Check Surroundings: Look around the area for broken glass, evidence of a struggle, tire marks, or a suspicious person.
- Report to Police: If you suspect theft, report it to the police immediately. Provide details like the vehicle's make, model, license plate number, color, and any distinguishing features.
Repossessed Vehicle:
- Visit the Lender: First, check with your auto lender or financing institution to see if the car has been repossessed due to missed payments.
- Notice of Default: Prior to repossession, lenders typically send a notice of default or a letter of intent to repossess.
- Vehicle Missing: If the car is missing from its usual parking spot, and the lender confirms repossession, the vehicle has indeed been taken.
- Repossession Laws: Familiarize yourself with the laws and procedures for repossession in your state, which dictate how and when lenders can repossess a vehicle.
- Recovery Options: If the vehicle has been repossessed, you might be able to get it back by contacting the lender, making overdue payments, or reaching a payment arrangement.
