How Long Before an Impounded Car Goes to Auction?

There's nothing quite like that sinking feeling when you realise your car has been impounded. But if you think getting it back is just a case of paying a quick fine and driving off, think again. Time is not on your side.

On average, most impounded cars are held for around 14 days before the authorities decide what to do with them. But here's the catch; it's not always that simple.

• Some impound lots hold onto valuable or rare vehicles for longer, hoping to fetch a better price at auction.
• If your car is tied up in legal trouble (for example, if it was involved in a crime), it could be held indefinitely.
• Certain councils are more lenient and might give extra time before scrapping or auctioning a vehicle; but don't count on it.

Here's how it typically plays out:

• Initial Storage Period: Your car is held for a set time (usually 14 days), giving you a chance to pay the fees and provide the right paperwork.
• Final Warning Notices: If you haven't reclaimed it, you might receive a final warning letting you know your time is almost up.
• Auction or Scrapping: If no action is taken, your car could be sold to the highest bidder or sent to the scrapyard.

Moral of the story? Don't wait. The longer you leave it, the more expensive and complicated it gets.

How to Get Your Impounded Car Back Before It's Too Late

You don't have forever to figure this out. Act fast, or risk losing your car completely. Here's what you might need to do:

• Sort out the right insurance. If your car was impounded owing to lack of insurance, you'll need a specialist impound policy to get it released. Regular car insurance won't get past the first hurdle.
• Transfer ownership (if needed). If the registered keeper can't retrieve the car, you may need to transfer ownership to someone who can. This means updating the DVLA records before heading to the pound.
• Hire a specialist haulage company. If you can't get valid insurance, a professional vehicle recovery service may be able to tow your car away instead.
• Call the pound and check their requirements. Every impound lot is slightly different. Confirm exactly what documents and payments are needed before you turn up. One missing paper = another wasted day (and more fees).

Tip: Don't assume you'll get a reminder. Some people don't receive final notices before their car is disposed of. If your car has been impounded, treat it as an emergency.

Why Getting Expert Advice Can Help

Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. The system isn't designed to be easy, and one wrong move could cost you your car forever.

Speaking to an expert can help you:

• Find the right insurance. Not all policies will be accepted for vehicle release; specialists can help you get a valid one.
• Check if your car is still eligible for release. If you're not sure whether you still have time, an expert can find out.
• Analyse alternative collection options. If you're struggling with insurance, they might suggest a haulage service or another legal workaround.
• Make sure you have all the required documents. Because nobody wants to get to the pound, only to be turned away over one missing form.

If in doubt; ask for help. It's a lot cheaper and easier than dealing with the aftermath of a lost car.

Act Now; Before It's Too Late

If you wait too long, your car could be sold or scrapped; and once that happens, there's no getting it back.

• Every extra day means more storage fees. Don't let the costs spiral out of control.
• Most police pounds give you seven working days to arrange collection before they move to the next step.
• Once your car is auctioned or scrapped, it's gone forever. There are no second chances.

If you may need impound insurance, advice on vehicle release, or help figuring out your options, don't wait. Call now or get a quote online before time runs out!