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Auto Repair Shop Liquidation: Getting Rid of Customer Abandonments
Updated: 2026 · Read time: ~5 min
Got a yard full of customer cars that never came back? Here's how to legally clear them and recover capital.
The Abandoned Vehicle Problem
Every shop has them: cars dropped off for repairs, never claimed, never paid for. After 30+ days, most states allow you to title them — and most shops don't realize they can **sell them for scrap value**.
The Legal Process in Florida
- **Send notice.** Mail certified letters to the last known address.
- **Wait the statutory period.** Florida: 35 days for repair liens (Section 713.585, F.S.).
- **Apply for title.** File with the FL DHSMV for a "Mechanic's Lien" title using Form HSMV 82101.
- **Sell to a licensed buyer.** Like us.
We work with shops every month to handle this paperwork. We can connect you with a paralegal service that does the lien paperwork for a flat fee.
Sample Recoveries
- 2011 Chevy Cruze, abandoned 8 months, $480 paid to the shop
- 2003 Ford Explorer, abandoned 2 years, $620 paid
- 2014 Dodge Caravan, abandoned 6 months, $1,100 paid
The shop recovers cash *and* reclaims yard space.
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