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If a car is stolen from a repair shop, who is responsible?
I had a friend whose vehicle was stolen overnight while it was at the repair shop. In that type of situation, whose insurance covers it? Will the mechanic be responsible or the owner?
Macy Fouse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m so sorry that happened to your friend! If a car is stolen from a repair shop, the mechanic may be held responsible under certain circumstances—but the answer isn’t always straightforward.
For example, if the mechanic was careless and left the keys inside an unlocked vehicle, the owner of the car can hold the mechanic responsible. However, if the mechanic did everything they could to ensure the vehicle’s safety and it still got stolen, they likely won’t be held liable for theft or losses.
Some repair shops have insurance coverage that may be able to help the owner recover some of the costs. The shop could be held liable for a stolen vehicle or parts, for instance. But it’s unlikely they would be responsible for stolen personal items within the vehicle, like electronics or sunglasses.
Many states also have laws requiring shops to carry garage keeper liability coverage that protects vehicles and their parts. Under these laws, a mechanic may be held responsible if a car’s tires, stereo, or other parts are stolen.
As you can see, it depends on so many variables! You’ll need to speak with the insurers directly to determine what true in your case.
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