How Long Until They Sell My Car in Michigan?
Under Michigan law, a towed or abandoned vehicle can be sold at public auction in as little as 20 days after you're notified. Here's what happens before the sale.
Timeline Overview
Action | Deadline | Who Does It | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Vehicle is towed and stored | Day 0 | Police or private towing company | Must enter vehicle into LEIN within 24 hours. |
Secretary of State sends notice | Within 7 days | Michigan Secretary of State | Mailed or personally served to the owner and lienholders. |
You must act (redeem or request hearing) | Within 20 days of notice | Vehicle owner | Pay fees + $40 or post bond and request hearing. |
Auction may be scheduled | After 20 days | Impound lot or custodian | Auction must be publicized at least 5 days in advance. |
Minimum Time Before They Sell Your Car: 20 Days After Notice
Because the notice can take up to 7 days to arrive, your vehicle could be auctioned in as little as about 27 days from the tow date. The 5-day auction notice can overlap with the 20-day redemption period.
How Will You Be Notified?
- The Michigan Secretary of State mails a notice with your vehicle's location and storage charges.
- The notice explains how to request a court hearing.
- It warns that your vehicle may be sold or scrapped if you do nothing within 20 days.
How to Stop the Sale
- Pay all towing and storage fees plus a $40 administrative fee.
- Or post a bond equal to those fees and request a court hearing.
If you take no action, your ownership rights end and the impound lot may sell the vehicle at auction.
Realistic Timeline Breakdown (Example)
Event | Approx. Day |
---|---|
Car towed | Day 0 |
Entered in LEIN | Day 1 |
Notice mailed | By Day 7 |
20-day redemption window starts | Day 7 |
Redemption deadline ends | Day 27 |
Car may be sold | Day 28+ |
Summary
Your towed vehicle can be sold in as little as 20 days after the state mails you a noticeโusually around 27โ30 days from the tow date if you don't act.