When a vehicle is abandoned on your property and the owner never claims it, what happens to it? In Arizona, the vehicle eventually goes through a title transfer process managed by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). This guide explains how the abandoned vehicle title process works, who can claim the vehicle, and what steps are involved.
Who Can Obtain Title to an Abandoned Vehicle?
In Arizona, the title to an abandoned vehicle is not transferred directly to the property owner. Instead, the licensed towing company that removed and stored the vehicle has the right to file for a mechanic's lien through ADOT. Once the lien is granted, the towing company becomes the legal owner of the vehicle and can dispose of it through sale, auction, or salvage.
The Mechanic's Lien Process
The mechanic's lien process in Arizona follows these steps: The towing company tows and stores the vehicle. Law enforcement is notified of the tow. The towing company attempts to identify and notify the registered owner via certified mail. If the owner does not claim the vehicle within the legally required waiting period, the towing company files a mechanic's lien application with ADOT. ADOT processes the application and, if approved, issues a new title to the towing company.
Required Documentation
To file a mechanic's lien with ADOT, the towing company must provide proof of the tow (tow ticket, law enforcement notification), proof of owner notification attempts (certified mail receipts), vehicle identification information (VIN, make, model, year), documentation of accumulated fees, and the completed lien application form.
What If You Want to Keep the Vehicle?
If you find an abandoned vehicle on your property and want to keep it, you cannot simply claim it. Arizona law requires the vehicle to go through the proper legal process. However, once the towing company obtains title through the lien process, you may be able to purchase the vehicle from them at auction or through a private sale.
Timelines and Fees
The mechanic's lien process typically takes 30-60 days from the time of the tow to the issuance of a new title. ADOT charges a fee for processing the lien application. The towing company handles all of these costs and recovers them through the eventual disposition of the vehicle. Property owners are never involved in or responsible for any costs in this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the title to an abandoned car on my property?
Not directly. Arizona law requires abandoned vehicles to go through the mechanic's lien process via ADOT, which is handled by the licensed towing company. You cannot claim title to a vehicle simply because it was abandoned on your property.
How long does it take to get a title for an abandoned vehicle in Arizona?
The mechanic's lien process typically takes 30-60 days from the time of tow to title issuance by ADOT. This includes the required owner notification period and ADOT processing time.
What does ADOT charge for an abandoned vehicle title?
ADOT charges fees for processing the mechanic's lien application. These fees are paid by the towing company and recovered through the eventual sale or disposition of the vehicle. Property owners do not pay any ADOT fees.
Need Help?
Axle Towing & Impound provides free abandoned vehicle removal for property owners across the Phoenix metro area. Call us today.