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 Wyoming, 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 Wyoming Statutes Title 29 (Liens), Chapter 1, mechanics and those who furnish materials or labor for the repair or improvement of personal property, including vehicles, are entitled to a lien on the property. This lien ensures that the mechanic or repair shop has a security interest in the vehicle until they are compensated for their services and materials. The lien is typically perfected by retaining possession of the vehicle until payment is made. If the vehicle owner fails to pay, the lienholder may enforce the lien through a sale of the vehicle after complying with the statutory requirements for notice and timing. It is important for both property owners and lien claimants to understand the specific procedures and timelines set forth in Wyoming law to perfect and enforce a mechanic's lien.