ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Car Inspections and Repairs

Repairs

What if I do not pay for the auto repairs?

In most states, if you refuse to pay for completed repairs, the shop may keep your car. For example, if you have authorized extensive work, but decide that the car isn't worth that much after the shop completes the work and refuse to pay, the shop obtains a mechanic's lien on your car. The car's actual value, and the actual cost of the repairs, does not matter. If you abandon your car in this manner, the mechanic may ultimately sell your car so that it can recover as much of the cost of repairs as possible. In states that require written estimates and repair authorization, the shop does not obtain a mechanic's lien if it does not comply with these requirements. Of course, if you do pay for the repairs, the repair shop must return your car.