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Automobiles

mechanic's liens

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 Washington State, 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 an auto repair shop or mechanic. Under RCW 60.28.010 and related statutes, mechanics and auto repair shops can assert a lien for labor, materials, and storage provided to a vehicle. The lien gives the repair shop 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 repair shop may enforce the lien by selling the vehicle at a public auction after proper notice is given to the vehicle owner and any other interested parties. The proceeds from the sale are used to pay the debt owed to the repair shop, with any surplus funds typically returned to the vehicle owner.

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Automobiles

mechanic's liens

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Washington State Code

Washington State Code

Automobiles

mechanic's liens

Articles