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 South Carolina, 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 South Carolina law, mechanics and repair shops can place a lien on a vehicle when the owner fails to pay for services rendered. This lien ensures that the mechanic has a security interest in the vehicle until they receive payment for their work. The lien process is governed by Title 29, Chapter 15 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which outlines the specific requirements for establishing and enforcing a mechanic's lien, including the necessary notices and filings. If the vehicle owner does not satisfy the lien by paying the debt, the mechanic may have the right to retain possession of the vehicle and may eventually sell it to recover the owed amount, following the legal procedures for foreclosure of the lien.