Finding your car missing can be a stressful experience, especially if it has been towed in Chicago. A primary concern that immediately springs to mind is, does a repo lot keep our car safe? While the term “repo lot” typically refers to lots holding repossessed vehicles, in the context of city towing, the question of vehicle safety in auto pounds is equally valid. This guide will provide you with locations of official Chicago Auto Pounds and information to help you understand the safety measures in place for your vehicle.
The City of Chicago manages several auto pounds to store towed vehicles. These pounds are generally considered secure locations, but understanding their operations can further ease your concerns about your car’s safety while impounded. Below are the official auto pound locations in Chicago, directly from the City’s resources.
City of Chicago Auto Pounds
These locations are managed by the City and generally handle vehicles towed for parking violations and other city ordinances.
Central Auto Pound
Located at 500 E Wacker Drive. (Lower Level), this is a major facility and operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, ensuring continuous monitoring and presumably, security.
O’Hare International Airport Auto Pound
Situated at City of Chicago Impound Lot, Bessie Coleman Drive, O’Hare International Airport, this pound is specifically for vehicles towed from the airport area. Like the Central Auto Pound, it is open 24/7/365.
Auto Pound #2
Found at 103rd and Doty Avenue, Auto Pound #2 also provides round-the-clock service throughout the year.
Auto Pound #3S
Located at the same address as #2, 103rd and Doty Avenue, Auto Pound #3S is designated for abandoned vehicles but operates with limited hours: 7am-5pm, Monday to Saturday, excluding holidays.
Auto Pound #3N
Positioned at 701 N. Sacramento Avenue, Auto Pound #3N also deals with abandoned vehicles and maintains the same operating hours as #3S: 7am-5pm, Monday to Saturday, excluding holidays.
Auto Pound #6
Also located at 701 N. Sacramento Avenue, Auto Pound #6 is a 24/7/365 facility, similar to the Central and O’Hare pounds.
Chicago Police Department Auto Pounds
For vehicles involved in crimes or requiring investigation, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) manages specific auto pounds. These pounds have stricter access protocols due to the evidentiary nature of the vehicles they hold. If your vehicle is impounded at one of these, you’ll need to contact the CPD at 312.745.6270.
Auto Pound 1S
Located at 103rd and Doty Avenue, and managed by the CPD, Auto Pound 1S is open 24/7/365.
Auto Pound #4
Situated at 5555 W. Grand Avenue, Auto Pound #4 is also under CPD management and operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Important Note: There is no Auto Pound #5 currently in operation by the City of Chicago.
Finding Your Towed Vehicle
To locate your vehicle, the City of Chicago recommends dialing 3-1-1. This service can provide you with the location of your car and the address of the relevant auto pound. Additionally, the City may offer an online search tool to find your towed vehicle, which can be a quicker alternative to calling.
Safety and Security at Chicago Auto Pounds
While the original article doesn’t explicitly detail security measures, the 24/7 operation of many pounds suggests continuous monitoring. City-operated and Police-managed auto pounds are official facilities, implying a degree of security and oversight. Generally, vehicles in impound lots are kept in designated areas, reducing the risk of theft or vandalism compared to street parking.
In conclusion, while the question “does a repo lot keep our car safe?” raises valid concerns, Chicago Auto Pounds, whether city-managed or CPD-managed, operate as secure storage facilities for towed vehicles. Utilize the City’s 3-1-1 service or online tools to locate your vehicle and proceed with the retrieval process, knowing your car is in an official designated location.
