A mechanic’s lien is a security interest in real or personal property that is acquired by someone who adds material or labor to improve the property. A mechanic’s lien usually remains in effect until the lien holder (the auto repair shop) is paid for the material or labor added to the property. For a movable piece of property like a car, the property owner’s failure to pay the auto repair shop for material or labor may allow the auto repair shop to keep possession of the car until the owner pays for the material and labor. In the auto repair context, a mechanic’s lien is sometimes called a garageman’s lien.

In Arizona, a mechanic's lien, also known as a garageman's lien in the context of auto repairs, is a legal claim against a vehicle for unpaid repairs or improvements made by a mechanic or repair shop. Under Arizona Revised Statutes Title 33, Chapter 7, mechanics and repair shops have the right to retain possession of a vehicle until they are compensated for the labor and materials provided. The lien is typically enforced by retaining the vehicle until payment is made. If the vehicle owner fails to pay the debt within a specified period, the mechanic may be able to sell the vehicle to recover the costs. It is important for both vehicle owners and repair shops to understand the specific requirements and procedures for perfecting and enforcing a mechanic's lien in Arizona, which may include proper notice to the vehicle owner and filing the lien within the time limits prescribed by law.