Officers found the car, which had been on the road for four days, on Derbyshire Row, Astley Bridge.
A police spokesman said the checks showed that the owner was not nearby.
In addition, the front of the vehicle was damaged with two “bald tires” – with a worn profile.
The vehicle was recovered, presumably stolen.
A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: “XQ11 was visiting an abandoned vehicle in Derbyshire Row Bolton, the vehicle had been there for 4 days.
“Checks were carried out, the owner was not on site. The vehicle had damage around the vehicle and the 2 front tires were bare. The vehicle was recovered and stolen.”
