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 Minnesota, a mechanic's lien, often referred to as a garageman's lien when it pertains to auto repairs, is a legal claim against a vehicle for unpaid repairs or improvements made by a mechanic or repair shop. Under Minnesota Statutes, specifically Chapter 514, mechanics and similar tradespeople can assert a lien for the value of their labor and materials provided in improving, repairing, or maintaining personal property, including cars. The lien gives the repair shop the right to retain possession of the vehicle until they are paid for their services. If the vehicle owner fails to pay the debt within a specified period, the mechanic may enforce the lien through a sale of the vehicle, subject to certain legal procedures, including notice requirements and potentially a court order. It is important for both vehicle owners and repair shops to understand their rights and obligations under Minnesota's mechanic's lien laws to ensure proper legal processes are followed.