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 Maine, 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 services provided by an auto repair shop or mechanic. Under Maine law, specifically Title 10, Chapter 603 of the Maine Revised Statutes, mechanics and those who furnish labor, parts, or materials for the repair or storage of a vehicle have the right to a lien on the vehicle. This lien ensures they can retain possession of the vehicle until they are compensated for their services. The lien is typically perfected by possession of the vehicle and must be enforced within a specific time frame. If the vehicle owner fails to pay the debt owed for the services rendered, the lienholder may eventually have the right to sell the vehicle to recover the costs, following a legal process that includes notification to the vehicle owner and potential court proceedings.