He will NOT want a judgment on his credit reports. So, if it were me, I'd take all evidence to court and sue him.

Do the best you can to get proof of payment if you do not already have it. Note, LL fired them for a reason, so, he likely knows something is...

So, they cannot sell it, immediately, or over time and deliver title. That's a no no. It may take a while to get it but it shouldn't take that...

I recommend you visit the state of CA DMV website and search there for smog issues. You should find a solid bunch of advice there!

Maybe. What does your lease with them say?

They should, sorry for your issues. Let your insurance company handle that, as normally, they pay you and they sue the bad guy. You need not worry...

1- The BAR has power over mechanics. They will not like to hear about this. 2- If you owed them a million dollars, they could NOT hold your car...

So, there are literally laws that cover everything and if not, there will be tomorrow. The issue for you is can you get relief via the legal system...

They will have a DUTY to limit their losses, so that they must try to re-rent and they cannot charge double rent, in my experience. That said, I've...

1- Have it looked at by a LL/TNT atty. 2- Unless he wins the case, he will be out. 3- No good deed goes unpunished. Good luck with it.