Auto Repair Shop Liquidation: Getting Rid of Customer Abandonments

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

1. Send notice. Mail certified letters to the last known address.
2. Wait the statutory period. Florida: 35 days for repair liens (Section 713.585, F.S.).
3. Apply for title. File with the FL DHSMV for a "Mechanic's Lien" title using Form HSMV 82101.
4. 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.

The Abandoned-Vehicle Problem

Every independent shop eventually has cars nobody comes back for: declined-repair estimates, trade-ins that didn't sell, or vehicles left after a dispute. They tie up bays and lot space, and once storage costs and lien rules kick in, most shops just want them gone.

What We Need From the Shop

• A list of the vehicles with year, make, and model
• Whatever title or lien paperwork the shop holds
• A point of contact who can authorize the release
• Access details for the lot or yard

For vehicles 10+ model years old, Florida often allows disposal with the shop's documentation and ID. For newer vehicles, a title or duplicate is usually required — we'll tell you which before we arrive.

Why Shops Use Us Instead of Auction

Auctions take a cut, charge fees, and still leave you hauling cars around. We quote a flat number for the lot, pay the same week, and remove everything in one visit. No seller's premium, no transport costs.