Vault: How a Mechanic's Lien Works

From an email question.

[mikep]

I wondered how those worked. I know local tow companies would have auctions, but I once bought a car from a shop that'd installed a used engine. (Oregon) As a shop owner, I might ask for a down payment when repairs are worth more than the car. I ended up repainting the car because the original owner tried to steal "his" car back.

[zxsteve]

Can mech liens be used for unpaid bills for repairs on other equipment like tractors or lawn and garden equipment?

[blackqueenme]

I am a contractor in NYC can I file a lien and do I have to file a affidavit of service before placing the lien. Thanks

[NA-pbpi]

Fascinating. Thank you for your insight

[sparxva]

What happens when the value of the lien exceeds the value of the car with the repairs? Does the mechanic sue the owner for the difference?

[the-tribe]

Where did the 225 day limit come from? Likely from a motorhead allusion to the Deuce & A Quarter...

[Alan.Bishop]

Does this law work for pickup trucks or Honda CRVs in Michigan?

[thatjeff]

Is this the new room or an old video that looks like the new room?

[banginzaza]

Could the person who owes make payments in a short time? Like less than 3 months?

[theprodigalstranger]

Is that legal? Well, maybe. Laws "do vary wildly from state to state!"

[paulsalb]

Ben's leaning on microphone behind military truck model

[CindySorenson-rm]

My mom's old, 81 and I just started caring for her. I have to place her car in my name and register it, so insurance is way cheaper. Me-$200 for liability, her $1200 for 6 months just for liability. This was back in April, it's Oct same year now. Mom doesn't remember being towed. The tow company has a one star at the BBB & accusations of towing people for false made up reasons on the comments. The tow yard never answers their phone & don't return my calls inquiring some context as to what happened & how to have the lien removed and has it already been paid. None of which I know, and it's checked 'other', whatever that means. How do I get them to help me get it removed, and why would they not want to help me if they're a legitimate tow company? I don't want them to steal my mom's car all sneakily! Hoping you'll have some answers, you always do. Thanks Stevo!