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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina General Statutes, specifically N.C.G.S. § 44A-2, a mechanic who has provided labor, services, materials, or storage for the benefit of a vehicle may assert a lien on the vehicle for the reasonable charges for such services. The lien gives the mechanic the right to retain possession of the vehicle until the debt is paid. 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, as outlined in N.C.G.S. § 44A-4. It is important for both vehicle owners and repair shops to understand their rights and obligations under the law regarding mechanic's liens. Vehicle owners should be aware that nonpayment could result in the loss of their vehicle, while mechanics must follow the proper legal procedures to enforce their lien rights.