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Vehicle Theft and Break-Ins
Prevention
Prevention is the best way to avoid having your vehicle broken into or stolen.
If you are going to leave items in your car, make sure they are hidden and not easily seen.
If you are visiting San Diego and traveling with luggage, check them at the hotel instead of leaving them in your car as you explore.
Report a Vehicle Theft
If you saw your vehicle drive away, call 9-1-1.
If you did not see your vehicle leave, call our non-emergency line at 619-531-2000 to report your vehicle as stolen. When calling, have the license plate number or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready. If your car had unique damage, stickers, wheels, external accessories, let the dispatcher know right away.
Report a Vehicle Break-in
If you see your vehicle actively being broken into, call 9-1-1.
If the break-in has already occurred, call the non-emergency line at 619-531-2000 to report the crime.
You can also complete a report online. An officer may contact you if additional details are needed.
Recovering a Stolen Vehicle
The San Diego Police Department also recover stolen vehicles. If found, an officer will attempt to call the registered owner to let them know about the recovery.
If we are unable to contact the registered owner or if the owner takes over 20 minutes to get to the vehicle, the vehicle will be stored at a City of San Diego contracted towing company until the registered owner can recover the vehicle.
For questions concerning an impounded vehicle, please contact SDPD Tow Administration at 858-495-7830 or email at Tow-Admin@pd.sandiego.gov.