Don’t Panic; But Don’t Delay Either

Finding your car has been towed or seized is a stomach-drop moment. Maybe it was parked somewhere awkward, uninsured, or caught up in a police check. Whatever the reason, acting fast is essential; because every day your car stays in the pound, the storage charges build up. The good news is, you can usually get it back within a day or two if you’ve got the right paperwork and follow the proper steps.

Here’s what to do; calmly and clearly; to get your car released and back on the road.

1. Confirm It’s Actually Been Impounded

If your car isn’t where you left it, don’t assume it’s been stolen. Local councils and police often remove vehicles for parking violations, unpaid fines, or lack of tax or insurance. Start by calling the local police on 101 (not 999) and explain what’s happened. They can check the national database to see whether your vehicle has been impounded and tell you where it’s being held.

If it’s a parking issue, some councils list towed vehicles online. It’s worth checking their website too; you might save a call.

2. Find Out Why It Was Seized

The reason for seizure determines what you’ll need to release it. Common causes include:

• No valid insurance: The police have the power to seize any uninsured vehicle under Section 165A of the Road Traffic Act.
• Illegal parking or obstruction: Local authorities can tow cars that block access or breach restrictions.
• Untaxed vehicles: The DVLA can clamp or remove untaxed cars from public roads.
• Abandoned or nuisance vehicles: Councils can act if a car’s left on the street long-term or causing complaints.

Knowing which agency took it; police, DVLA, or council; is crucial, as the process differs slightly for each.

3. Gather the Right Documents

You’ll need to prove you’re the owner or registered keeper, that you have valid insurance, and that the car is taxed and roadworthy. Bring:

• Your driving licence (photo card or paper version).
• The V5C logbook (in your name and current address).
• Valid insurance certificate that covers driving the car away from the pound.
• Proof of MOT if the car’s over three years old.
• Payment for any release and storage fees.

If the car was seized because it was uninsured, you’ll need to arrange new cover before collecting it; usually a specific impounded car insurance policy. Many standard insurers won’t touch vehicles currently in a pound, so you’ll need a specialist provider that issues a one-day or short-term policy for release.

4. Pay the Fees Promptly

Charges depend on who impounded the vehicle, but they typically include a £150 release fee plus around £20–£25 per day in storage. If it was towed after a parking offence, you might also owe a fine before release. The clock starts ticking from the day of removal, so waiting even a few days can add up quickly.

Most pounds accept card payments on site. Always ask for a full itemised receipt when you collect your car; you might need it if you challenge the seizure later.

5. If You Can’t Collect It Yourself

If you’re abroad, in hospital, or otherwise unable to attend, you can nominate someone to collect the car on your behalf. They’ll need written authorisation from you plus copies of your ID and the required documents. Pounds are strict about this; they won’t release a vehicle to anyone without proper permission and proof of ownership.

6. What If You Don’t Want the Car Back?

If the car isn’t worth the release cost, you can formally disclaim ownership. You’ll need to sign a release form allowing the pound or insurer to dispose of it. That stops storage fees from increasing, but you won’t receive any payment for the vehicle. Make sure to notify the DVLA that you no longer own it; otherwise you could still be liable for tax or penalties.

7. When the Car Has No Insurance or MOT

If the car was impounded for having no insurance or MOT, you’ll need to fix both before it can leave. You can usually buy a temporary insurance policy that specifically covers you to collect it from the pound. If it has no valid MOT, arrange recovery by trailer or tow truck rather than driving it; doing so without an MOT is an offence unless driving directly to a pre-booked test.

8. If the Car Isn’t Released

If you don’t collect your car within seven working days of notification, it can be disposed of; usually scrapped or auctioned. Once that happens, there’s little chance of getting it back, even if you later prove ownership. That’s why it’s crucial to act quickly and keep communication lines open with the impound centre.

9. Challenging the Seizure

If you believe your car was wrongly taken; for instance, if insurance was active but not correctly recorded on the Motor Insurance Database; you can appeal. Start by gathering proof (policy documents, confirmation emails, or bank records) and write to the relevant authority explaining the error. Keep in mind, you usually need to pay the release fees first, then pursue reimbursement once the case is reviewed.

Useful UK Resources

• GOV.UK – Vehicle Impounded: What to Do
• AskMID – Check If Your Car Is Insured
• GOV.UK – Check Vehicle Tax
• DVLA – Report an Untaxed Vehicle