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 California, 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 an auto repair shop or mechanic. Under California Civil Code Section 3068, auto repair shops have the right to retain possession of a vehicle until they are paid for the labor, services, and materials provided. If the vehicle owner fails to pay, the repair shop may enforce the lien by selling the vehicle after complying with the statutory requirements, which include notifying the vehicle owner and interested parties, and conducting a lien sale in accordance with the law. It's important to note that specific procedural requirements must be followed to perfect and enforce a mechanic's lien, and failure to adhere to these requirements can result in the loss of lien rights. Vehicle owners have the right to contest the lien and the amount claimed, and they may seek legal advice if they believe the lien is improper or the charges are excessive.