Rookie Mistake...

Just some random thoughts...

Do you have any of the info you have presented here in writing signed by both of you? As in a contract?

If you pick up your car now then you will be better off. I agree do not give him a heads up just show up with trailer and a couple helpers.

IF you have a contract and IF in the contract you have a complete by date and that date has passed, you might be able to small claims court him to refund the value of the work not completed.

But...

What ever you do get the car.

If he goes belly up and the car is on the property it will be hell to get your property back.

If he rents the property the owner might have the rights to all property left behind, then you have to prove you own the property
No written contract or completion date. He does lease the building unfortunately. As far as proving ownership , have the NC title in my name and the only set of original keys the car. I made sure to itemize the fender tag and VIN tag in the complaint to the NC DOJ/AG since he removed them for media blasting and put them in his safe.