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 Kansas, 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 Kansas Statutes, specifically K.S.A. 58-201, et seq., any person who provides labor, materials, equipment, or supplies used to repair or improve personal property, including vehicles, is entitled to a lien upon that property. This lien ensures that the mechanic or auto repair shop can retain possession of the vehicle until they are compensated for their services and materials. To perfect the lien, the mechanic must comply with specific statutory requirements, which may include filing a notice of the lien with the appropriate state agency and/or serving notice to the vehicle owner. The lien remains effective until the debt is paid or until it is enforced through legal action, such as a lien foreclosure sale.