The Expert Podcast

• Introduction:
  • Discussing why mechanic's liens are no longer a viable option for getting a car title.
  • In the past, it was a legitimate way for automotive shops to get paid for repairs, but this has changed over the years.
• Interview with a Mechanic:
  • A mechanic shares his challenging experience with a car brought in for repairs that was never picked up.
  • The mechanic explains how trying to get a title through a mechanic's lien was a long and frustrating process.
• History of Mechanic's Liens:
  • Automotive shops used to rely on mechanic's liens for titles, especially for cars left unclaimed.
  • In 2015-2016, many shops abused the process to help individuals get titles for cars they hadn’t worked on, leading to the tightening of regulations.
• The Tightened Process:
  • States have cracked down on mechanic’s liens. Many now require a detailed audit process before accepting a lien.
  • Shops must prove they performed authorized work, notify the owner, and auction the car publicly.
  • The process is time-consuming, requiring certified letters and public ads for auction.
• Why Mechanic's Liens Aren't Worth It:
  • Even for legitimate shops, the process is complicated and costly.
  • A court-ordered title is a faster, cheaper alternative with fewer hoops to jump through.
• State Regulations:
  • States have started implementing stricter audits to prevent fraud, including checking the shop’s financial records.
  • Mechanic's liens are often rejected due to lack of proper documentation or fraudulent practices.
• Case Example:
  • A mechanic shares an example where a repair shop tried to use a mechanic's lien for a car they worked on, but the process was rejected twice after being audited.
• Cartitles.com Insights:
  • According to cartitles.com, the process for obtaining a mechanic's lien is complex and should only be used when absolutely necessary.
  • States often require the car to be auctioned, and any proceeds beyond the repair costs must be turned over to the state.
• Alternatives to Mechanic's Liens:
  • If you’re not a licensed mechanic or trying to get a title for a car that wasn’t worked on, a mechanic’s lien won’t work.
  • Other methods are faster, cheaper, and more reliable.
• Conclusion:
  • If you are considering a mechanic's lien, think twice. There are better options available that won’t take months to complete.
• Call to Action:
  • Book a one-on-one live consultation with experts at actualhuman.com for more personalized advice on car titles, liens, and more.