Mechanic's Lien on a Vehicle in Texas: Process, Rights & Sale
Whether you're a mechanic enforcing a lien or an owner facing one, Texas has specific rules on notice, waiting periods, and sale process. Here's everything you need to know.
Governing Statute
Texas Property Code Ch. 70 — Possessory Liens
Texas Property Code §70.001–70.008 governs garage and mechanic's liens. The lien attaches automatically when labor or storage is performed.
Quick Reference
Notice Requirements
Certified mail to owner and lienholder within 30 days
Texas Property Code §70.006 requires written notice with itemized statement of charges. Public notice required if owner cannot be located.
Waiting Period Before Sale
30 days after notice
Owner has 30 days from notice to pay the lien. After this, the lien holder can proceed to public sale.
Sale Process
Public auction with TxDMV form VTR-265
Texas requires public auction for mechanic's lien sales. TxDMV Form VTR-265 (Notification of Mechanic's Lien Sale) is filed.
Filing Fees and Costs
$28 TxDMV title fee + advertising costs
Texas charges $28 for the new title after sale. Plus newspaper public notice costs ($75–$200 depending on the paper).
Owner Rights
- Right to itemized billing before lien
- Right to 30-day notice and chance to redeem
- Right to file in justice of peace court
- Right to surplus from sale
- Right to challenge under Texas DTPA (Deceptive Trade Practices)
Texas Standout Rule
Frequently Asked Questions
What law governs mechanic's liens on vehicles in Texas?
Texas Property Code Ch. 70 — Possessory Liens. Texas Property Code §70.001–70.008 governs garage and mechanic's liens. The lien attaches automatically when labor or storage is performed.
How long do I have to pay before a mechanic can sell my vehicle in Texas?
30 days after notice. Owner has 30 days from notice to pay the lien. After this, the lien holder can proceed to public sale.
What notice must a mechanic give before lien sale in Texas?
Certified mail to owner and lienholder within 30 days. Texas Property Code §70.006 requires written notice with itemized statement of charges. Public notice required if owner cannot be located.
How does a mechanic sell a vehicle for unpaid lien in Texas?
Public auction with TxDMV form VTR-265. Texas requires public auction for mechanic's lien sales. TxDMV Form VTR-265 (Notification of Mechanic's Lien Sale) is filed.
What are my rights as the vehicle owner in Texas?
You have rights including: Right to itemized billing before lien, Right to 30-day notice and chance to redeem, Right to file in justice of peace court, and others. Texas DTPA (Deceptive Trade Practices Act) gives owners strong leverage against inflated mechanic's liens. Treble damages possible if the mechanic acted in bad faith.
Selling After Lien Resolution?
Once a mechanic's lien is satisfied, you'll need a clean bill of sale to transfer the vehicle. Generate a Texas-compliant one in minutes.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles — Liens. This page is informational only and not legal advice. Consult a licensed Texas attorney for your specific situation.