What ends it is when someone who has had their assets forfeited sues the pluperfect hell out of those who seized them unlawfully. Not just for the amount stolen, but with considerable punitive damages.
Which, in this case, would likely cost them $10,000+ for the return of a $2500 car.
Sure, the law say they can't have their stuff seized until conviction, but right now, that car is evidence and will be impounded and held as such. Technically, the cops have not officially "seized" the car - it's impounded as evidence. The actual seizure will occur once the screwball mechanic gets convicted.
The cost of litigation to return one's property is the number one reason asset seizure laws continue to exist. That, and the fact that we are entirely unwilling to actually stand and fight - and die, if necessary - protecting our rights.