Before the Tow Truck Comes: 12 Things to Take Out of Your Car

Before your car is collected, check belongings, personal data and handover arrangements while you still have safe access to it. Work through this list ahead of the agreed collection time. If you realise something has been left behind, contact the collection provider promptly; recovery may not be possible after processing.

Updated 3 October 2026.

1. Your toll tag and toll-account listing

Remove the tag and update the vehicle listing with your toll provider. Removing a tag and removing the number plate from an account are separate checks. The NSW Government selling guide recommends both.

2. Number plates, after checking the correct process

Do not assume every disposal follows the same plate process. Service NSW distinguishes selling to a wrecker with plates from selling without plates. Check our registration cancellation and plate guide and the linked official instructions before handover. If you want to retain personalised plates, ask Service NSW about your situation before proceeding.

3. Personal data in the infotainment system

Check paired phones, contacts, call history, saved navigation addresses and driver profiles where fitted. Follow the manufacturer’s reset instructions for your exact vehicle. The Australian Cyber Security Centre recommends a factory reset before disposal. Review connected-service accounts separately; a reset does not delete data already held in the cloud.

If the screen or battery does not work, ask the manufacturer or an appropriate repairer about safe options. Do not start or dismantle an unsafe vehicle just to erase data.

4. Garage remotes and access devices

Look on the visor and in storage pockets for garage remotes, gate fobs and parking access cards. Check the vehicle manual for programmed garage-door controls. Return borrowed or building-issued devices to the appropriate person.

5. Dashcams and removable storage

Retrieve your dashcam, memory cards and USB drives if you are keeping them. Save any recordings you need first. Ask for appropriate help with hardwired equipment rather than pulling wiring or trim apart.

6. Items under and behind the seats

Look for keys, wallets, phones, cards and small belongings. Move seats only if it is safe to do so. Do not reach into damaged mechanisms or sharp debris.

7. The boot and accessible storage compartments

Check for tools, bags, sports gear, first-aid kits and other possessions. Inspect under the boot floor if safely accessible. Tell the collection provider about anything you cannot safely retrieve.

8. The glovebox and centre console

Collect personal paperwork, chargers, spare keys, sunglasses and parking permits. Keep the documents needed for the agreed handover available rather than packing everything away.

9. Sun visors and door pockets

Check for receipts, cards, permits and anything clipped out of sight. These small storage areas are easy to miss during a quick clean-out.

10. Records you need to keep

Keep copies of the agreed quote, relevant vehicle records and the handover receipt. Confirm which original documents, if any, should accompany the vehicle. Ask the provider what identification and evidence of your authority to dispose of it are required.

11. Accessories you agreed to retain

Tell the buyer or collection provider before removing accessories or vehicle components. A quote based on a complete car may need review if its condition changes. Do not remove wheels, batteries, fuel or other components as a routine preparation step; ask first and leave hazardous work to appropriate professionals.

12. Child seats and other passengers’ belongings

Check child seats, cushions, umbrellas and items used by other drivers or passengers. Ask anyone who regularly uses the car to check it before collection day.

Confirm the handover

Agree on access, keys, the person attending, the quote and the collection time. Follow the official registration or disposal process that applies to the transaction, and contact your insurer and toll provider separately. Registration paperwork is not a substitute for confirming authority to dispose of the vehicle.

For car-removal enquiries in Sydney, call Recycle Corp on 0428 01 01 01, Monday to Friday, 6am–4pm, or send a car enquiry. Include vehicle and access photos. Quotes and collection arrangements are confirmed individually.