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 Delaware, 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 Delaware law, mechanics and auto repair shops have the right to retain possession of a vehicle until the owner pays for the services rendered. This type of lien is established by state statute and is intended to provide security to those who have added value to the property through their labor or materials. The lien remains effective until the debt is satisfied, and it may lead to the sale of the vehicle if the owner fails to pay the debt. To enforce a mechanic's lien, the repair shop must comply with specific statutory requirements, including timelines and notification procedures. It is important for both vehicle owners and repair shops to understand their rights and obligations under Delaware's mechanic's lien laws to ensure proper legal processes are followed.