Towing Issues: Notification and time for Lien Sale, auto repair business, california dmv

Question
I just received a notice from a collection agency for almost $1500 for towing and storage of a care in excess of what was recovered at lien sale.  This is the first I have heard from this company and the car was towed 2 years ago!  My car wasn't running (separate issue with unscrupulous car repair place) and was parked in my apartment complex.  When I found it missing, I contacted the tow company listed in my complex.  I was told they did not have and never had my car.  I checked with my complex and was told that this tow company was the only company they used (they also said they did not authorize the tow).  I finally was able to get in touch with the tow company "owner" a few days later and was told that they had sold the car - 3 days, as it turned out, after the date he later gave me for the tow - not enough time for the notice he claims he sent but could not give me a mailing date or an address it was sent to. I used to run an auto repair business and we lien sold several cars and there was no way I could get one processed in 3 days!  We, of course, were registered with the BAR.  Who can I complain to about this towing company?  I live in Rialto, CA - San Bernardino County.

Thanks!

kimber

Answer
Well I have to say that since this involves the lien process and it seems that it was sold in way to soon of a time, I would suggest that you contact the California DMV office since they have laws on the process...

I know the current laws changed in Jan 2007 and as such I know that since this was a few years ago it would be something that a lawyer would be best handling...

I really have no real answer but it sounds as if the tow company did it wrong and as such they are liable for fines and penalties...