What To Do After a Car Break-In

You’re not alone in this experience. In 2014 alone, there were over 1.17 million reported car break-ins across the country, with an average loss of $835 per incident. That doesn’t even include the cost of stolen parts like hubcaps, radios, or even vehicle components such as motors and transmissions, which add another $553 on average per theft.

Even if you take every precaution, it can still happen. So, what should you do after a break-in? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you handle the situation and protect yourself moving forward.

1. Contact the Police and Survey the Scene

As soon as you notice the break-in, call the police. They will send an officer to assess the scene and file a report. You might also be asked to go to the station to provide more details. While waiting for help, take photos of the damage—broken windows, missing items, or forced entry—but don’t touch anything. Your car is now a crime scene, so leave everything as is for investigation.

Make sure you have your license, registration, insurance documents, and a list of what was taken. If your license plate or electronics were stolen, have the numbers ready. This helps avoid future issues like being held responsible for tickets or tracking stolen devices.

2. Protect Your Personal Information

If you left personal items in the car, a thief may have taken credit cards, phones, or other sensitive information. This could lead to identity theft. As soon as possible, contact your bank to cancel all cards, block access to your accounts, and reach out to the major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your files.

3. Keep Your Car Safe

After the police and insurance are involved, your car is still vulnerable. Don’t try to fix it yourself by using tape or cardboard. Instead, park it in a secure location like a garage until repairs are done. Leaving it on the street increases the risk of further theft or damage.

4. Get the Repairs Done

Once the situation is under control, it’s time to get your car fixed. Depending on the damage, you may need:

• Replacement of broken glass
• Repair or replacement of damaged doors
• Replacement of stolen parts
• Installation of new audio systems or GPS devices

Until these repairs are complete, your car remains an easy target for thieves. Make sure to schedule service as soon as possible.

5. Make a Plan to Prevent Future Thefts

To reduce the chance of another break-in, consider these tips:

• Always lock your car and keep the alarm on.
• Avoid leaving valuables in the car—especially in plain sight.
• Use the trunk for any important items you must bring along.
• Report suspicious activity around your vehicle to local authorities.
• Park in well-lit, busy areas whenever possible.

If you’ve recently been a victim of a car break-in, DaSilva’s Auto Body is here to help. We specialize in repairs ranging from broken glass to full body work. Contact our Naugatuck location today to schedule an appointment and get your car back on the road safely.