Dave Kindig is a well-known name in the custom car world. He is the founder of Kindig-It Design and the star of the hit TV show Bitchin’ Rides. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation for creating unique and high-end custom cars. His journey from a car enthusiast to a successful business owner has inspired many people in the automotive industry. When it comes to custom car design, Dave Kindig stands out as one of the most creative builders in the United States.
He is the mastermind behind Kindig-It Design and has earned worldwide recognition through Bitchin’ Rides. His skills, vision, and dedication have helped him turn his passion into a multi-million-dollar business.Dave Kindig has become a major figure in automotive design thanks to his incredible craftsmanship and innovation.
Who Is Dave Kindig?
Dave Kindig is a celebrated custom car designer, entrepreneur, and television personality from the United States, and the founder of Kindig-It Design — a premier custom car restoration shop based in Salt Lake City, Utah. From a young age he showed a strong interest in art, design, and automobiles, and unlike many in his field, he never attended formal automotive design school — he is entirely self-taught.
After years of honing his craft through real shop experience and hands-on fabrication, Dave and his wife Charity launched Kindig-It Design in 1999, starting small but quickly gaining recognition for their work. The turning point came in 2014 when the Discovery Channel offered him a chance to star in Bitchin’ Rides. The show follows his team as they transform classic cars into high-end custom masterpieces, and unlike many reality shows, it highlights the actual design and fabrication process — which strengthened Kindig’s credibility in the automotive world.
Multiple features by Goodguys Rod & Custom Association highlighted him as Builder of the Year, and his projects have consistently received SEMA recognition for outstanding design and creativity. In 2024, he marked 25 years of Kindig-It Design and achieved a career milestone with his first-ever personally entered Ridler Award build — the 1953 Corvette “CF1 Coupe” — which he won, having designed previous Ridler contenders for others but never being responsible for the entire build himself until that point.
Dave Kindig Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Dave Kindig |
| Date of Birth | February 6, 1971 |
| Age | 54 years old |
| Birthplace | Salt Lake City, Utah, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | Around 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Hair Color | Dark brown with some gray |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Profession | Custom car designer, entrepreneur, TV personality |
| Known For | Kindig-It Design, Bitchin’ Rides, Ridler Award winner |
| Wife | Charity Kindig (married 1992) |
| Children | Baylee Kindig, Drew Kindig |
| Residence | Salt Lake City area, Utah, USA |
| Notable Awards | 2024 Ridler Award, GM Design Award (2007), Ford Design Award (2013), Master Builder Award (2012) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5–8 million |
| Business | Founder and co-owner of Kindig-It Design |
| Hobbies & Interests | Golf, car shows, family time, mentoring team members |
Dave Kindig Age
Dave Kindig was born on February 6, 1971. As of early 2026, he is 54 years old and turned 55 in February. His age reflects decades of hands-on experience in custom car design, not just years spent in front of television cameras. Every stage of his career has refined his eye for detail, proportion, and functionality, making his automotive craftsmanship more polished with time.
He is an Aquarius by birth sign, American by nationality, and was raised in a Christian family in Salt Lake City, Utah. He turned his hobby into a career and eventually earned a prominent name in the custom car building world — a journey that took him from a working-class childhood to becoming one of the most recognized names in automotive design.
What makes Dave different is how he built his career from the ground up without formal design schooling. He learned by doing, improving his skills through real shop experience and years of trial and error. His approach focuses on craftsmanship, patience, and function rather than trends. Over time, this mindset helped him earn respect within the automotive world and build a loyal fan base that appreciates quality over flash.
Early Life and Background
Dave Kindig came from modest beginnings and found inspiration in simple tools and toys — Hot Wheels cars, Lego sets, and plastic model kits. He often reworked Lego pieces into custom car models and filled sketchbooks with vehicle drawings from a very young age, developing an artistic eye long before he ever set foot in a professional shop.
Raised in a working-class family, he developed an early interest in cars and design. He did not have any formal education in automotive design, yet his natural talent was undeniable. By the age of 17, he was already customizing Volkswagen Beetles with unique graphics, gaining practical experience that drew attention from friends and local car enthusiasts.
Dave began working for High Performance Coatings as soon as he graduated, and stayed there for the next eight years. The job made it possible for him to travel around the US, giving him an opportunity to meet many popular car designers and builders. In June 1999, he took a major leap — quitting his job, cashing out his 401(k) for just $4,800, and launching Kindig-It Design with his wife Charity, starting in a 4,500-square-foot rented space near 40th South and State Street in Salt Lake City.
Dave Kindig Wife and Family
Dave and Charity first met at a dance club. Charity has been interested in cars since she was a little girl — her father was a hot rodder and a car club member, and her mother was also passionate about customized cars. They married in 1992 and have been building both their life and business together ever since.
Charity helps run daily operations at Kindig-It Design, manages schedules, and keeps the business side organized, which allows the creative work to flow smoothly. Their long marriage is often admired because it shows stability, trust, and teamwork behind the scenes. “It is the most rewarding experience to build a business with your best friend, and the hardest thing I have ever done,” Charity has said of their partnership.
The couple has two children, daughter Baylee and son Drew, both of whom work with Dave at Kindig-It Design. Drew works as a designer while Baylee manages the website for the business. In heartfelt anniversary messages, Dave has described Charity as “the most special person” he has ever met, crediting her with filling his life with love, joy, and happiness — a testament to a partnership that has been at the heart of everything he has built.
Dave Kindig Height and Physical Appearance
Dave Kindig stands at around 5 feet 5 inches, giving him a compact and agile presence. He maintains a fit and healthy build, which helps him handle the physical demands of car fabrication — from bending metal to overseeing intricate assemblies.
He has dark brown, naturally colored hair and deep brown eyes. Dave carries himself with a masculine style and also sports tattoos, which have become part of his recognizable look both on and off the shop floor. His rugged, down-to-earth appearance matches his no-nonsense approach to building cars — always present, always hands-on, and never too polished for the grind of the workshop.
On screen, Dave’s look has become iconic among fans of Bitchin’ Rides. Whether he’s in a shop apron surrounded by sparks and steel or dressed up for a major car show like SEMA, he carries himself with the quiet confidence of someone who has spent decades mastering his craft. His appearance reflects the blue-collar roots that shaped him and the dedication that has kept him at the top of the custom car world for over 25 years.
Career Journey and Major Highlights
Dave Kindig began his professional path working at a high-performance coatings company, where he learned about automotive restoration techniques. Over those eight years, he traveled extensively across the country, absorbing knowledge from some of the best car designers and fabricators in the business. Over the years, Kindig-It expanded into a 27,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility, with an additional 10,000-square-foot warehouse to accommodate growing demand, and is now recognized as one of Utah’s premier destinations for custom car restoration and fabrication, attracting clients from across the globe.
Before Bitchin’ Rides, Dave had already appeared in 13 episodes of other car shows including My Classic Car, Car Crazy, Hot Rod TV, and Low Car TV. It was actually his shop’s restoration of the 1939 GM Futurliner that caught the attention of network executives, ultimately leading to the Bitchin’ Rides TV deal. Kindig-It Design has also signed significant contracts with major companies such as Harley-Davidson, Lamborghini, and Lotus, further cementing the shop’s status as a world-class operation.
Dave’s career highlights include winning the prestigious 2024 Don Ridler Memorial Award at the Detroit Autorama for the TwelveAir 1953 Corvette — a V12-powered, all-aluminum custom that took more than five years to build and cost over $1 million to complete. He also received the GM Design Award in 2007, the Master Builder Award in 2012, and the Ford Design Award in 2013. His CF1 program has also grown enormously, with CF1 models often reselling for far more than their original purchase price — one went from $450,000 to $770,000 at auction within a single year.
Early Professional Experience
Dave began working for High Performance Coatings as soon as he graduated, and stayed there for the next eight years. The job made it possible for him to travel around the US and gave him an opportunity to meet many popular car designers and builders. Dave himself believes this was the most important period of his life, as the people he met taught him a tremendous amount about cars.
He received his first major design job from Arizona Speed and Marine, designing their 1999 Chevrolet Silverado ASM/SS, which was featured in Truckin’ Magazine. From there his design career took off as he began designing for many car builders and magazines across the country. His background in high-performance coatings greatly influenced his ability to envision and execute the flawless paint jobs and finishes for which his designs would later become known throughout the industry.
Building Kindig-It Design Into a Known Name
Dave soon left High Performance Coatings to pursue a career in designing and building custom vehicles in his own shop. With nothing but $4,700, determination, and a dream, he started what is now known as Kindig-It Design. The business began at the Kindig family home but didn’t stay there long due to the demand for Dave’s creative designs. He and his wife Charity then leased a 4,500 sq ft shop in Salt Lake City and got to work. Kindig-It’s first big project was a PT Cruiser for Uglies.com — an underwear manufacturer — for which Dave hand-painted each panel with a print from their underwear line. The project got lots of recognition and was featured in local newspapers.
From that small 4,500-square-foot beginning, the business grew steadily into a 27,000-square-foot facility that Dave and Charity now own outright. Kindig-It Design went on to sign significant contracts with major companies such as Harley-Davidson, Lamborghini, and Lotus, and the shop now regularly presents builds at SEMA alongside the world’s most elite automotive brands. With a team of around 43 employees, the shop is capable of working on multiple high-end car projects simultaneously, cementing its status as one of the most respected custom automotive operations in the United States.
Television Exposure and Industry Recognition
Dave Kindig’s television journey began in 2013 with a feature on My Classic Car, where host Dennis Gage showcased his custom Cadillac and Bel Air builds. The following year, he became the star of Bitchin’ Rides, a MotorTrend (formerly Velocity) reality series that follows his team at Kindig-It Design as they transform classic and modern cars into extraordinary custom builds. The show brought global recognition to Dave’s craftsmanship and helped cement his place in the world of custom automotive design, running for an incredible 11 seasons before wrapping up.
Dave Kindig has won various awards and recognitions throughout his career. His first major honor came in 2007 when he won the GM Design Award at SEMA, followed by the 2012 Master Builder Award at the Boise Roadster Show. During the same year, he was honored with the Trendsetter Award at the Goodguys Rod and Custom event, after which he won the Ford Design Excellence Award at SEMA in 2013.
Awards and Achievements
- Dave Kindig won the 2024 Ridler Award for his outstanding TwelveAir build, one of the highest honors in custom car design.
- He earned the GM Design Award in 2007, recognizing his early creativity and innovation in automotive styling.
- In 2012, he received the Master Builder Award, highlighting his growing reputation in the custom car industry.
- The Ford Design Award in 2013 honored his exceptional craftsmanship and unique vehicle designs.
- He has been repeatedly featured by the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association as a top builder of the year.
- His projects are regularly recognized at SEMA shows for creativity, engineering, and high-level design quality.
- His work is respected for combining artistic style with engineering precision, earning admiration from fans and industry experts alike.
How Dave Kindig Started His Career in Custom Car Design
Dave Kindig’s journey into the world of custom car design began at a very young age, fueled by a deep-rooted fascination with automobiles that was almost instinctive. Growing up, he spent countless hours sketching car designs and studying the clean lines and balanced proportions of classic vehicles, developing an artistic sensibility that would later become his professional trademark. This early obsession laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually make him one of the most recognized names in the custom automotive industry.
After gaining hands-on experience working in various automotive shops, Dave learned the technical side of fabrication, bodywork, and high-performance coatings. He absorbed everything he could from experienced builders around him while simultaneously refining his own unique design language. This combination of artistic talent and mechanical know-how set him apart from the very beginning of his professional life.
By the late 1990s, Dave felt confident enough in his abilities to strike out on his own and build something that truly reflected his vision. He launched Kindig-It Design in Salt Lake City, Utah, and began laying the foundation for what would become one of the most respected custom car restoration shops in the country. Those early years were challenging, relying heavily on word of mouth and sheer determination, but his exceptional work quickly began attracting clients who recognized that they were dealing with someone truly special in the craft.
Rise of Kindig-It Design in the Automotive Industry
Kindig-It Design officially opened its doors in 1999, and from the start it carried the unmistakable signature of a shop driven by artistry rather than assembly-line thinking. Dave built his reputation one vehicle at a time, ensuring that every project that left his shop was a masterpiece of proportion, detail, and engineering excellence. Word spread quickly through the car community, and clients began seeking him out from across the country, willing to wait months or even years for a Kindig build.
What truly distinguished Kindig-It Design from competitors was Dave’s ability to blend classic automotive aesthetics with modern engineering and technology. He never simply restored old cars — he reimagined them, preserving the soul of the original while elevating every element to a higher standard. This philosophy resonated deeply with collectors and enthusiasts who wanted something far beyond what a conventional shop could offer, pushing the brand into an elite tier of custom builders.
As the shop’s portfolio grew, so did its physical presence and team size, evolving from a small operation into a full-service custom facility with a staff of highly skilled craftsmen. Kindig-It Design became a destination in the automotive world, earning features in top industry magazines and generating buzz at major car shows nationwide. The brand became synonymous with quality, creativity, and a boldness that challenged the conventions of custom car culture.
Dave Kindig TV Career and “Bitchin’ Rides” Success Story
Dave Kindig’s transition from respected builder to television personality came with the launch of Bitchin’ Rides on the Discovery Channel, a show that gave the world an intimate look inside the operations of Kindig-It Design. The series debuted to strong ratings and quickly developed a loyal fanbase drawn to Dave’s calm expertise, dry humor, and the jaw-dropping transformations his team produced episode after episode. It was the perfect platform to demonstrate not just the finished product, but the extraordinary skill and effort that went into every single build.
The show ran for 11 seasons and became one of the standout programs in the automotive television genre, often praised for its authenticity and production quality. Unlike many similar shows that leaned heavily on drama and conflict, Bitchin’ Rides kept its focus on the work itself, which audiences found refreshing and deeply satisfying. Dave’s natural on-screen presence made him relatable and compelling, turning him into a genuine fan favorite who connected with viewers far beyond the core car enthusiast audience.
The success of Bitchin’ Rides had a transformative effect on both Dave’s personal brand and the growth of Kindig-It Design as a business. Overnight, his shop became internationally known, and demand for his builds surged as new clients discovered his work through television. The exposure also opened doors to sponsorships, merchandise opportunities, and industry partnerships that significantly expanded his professional reach and financial success well beyond what the shop alone could have achieved.
Dave Kindig Net Worth Overview
Dave Kindig net worth comes primarily from running Kindig-It Design, where high-end custom car builds command premium prices. Over the years, income from merchandise, limited-production CF1 cars, and royalties from his TV shows have added to his earnings. By 2026, his careful investments and steady business growth have put him among the most recognized names in the automotive customization world.
The bulk of his income stems from his Salt Lake City-based custom car shop, which handles one-of-a-kind vehicle builds for wealthy clients willing to invest tens of thousands — sometimes hundreds of thousands — of dollars per project. In addition to shop revenue, his television appearances on Bitchin’ Rides generated significant earnings and opened doors to sponsorships, merchandise, and licensing deals. These multiple income streams have given him strong financial stability over the years.
Even though estimates vary, most sources agree that Dave’s wealth is estimated at $5–8 million. The combination of ongoing custom commissions, media projects, and a growing fan base ensures his financial stability while continuing to fund new builds and innovations.
| Source of Income | Est. Contribution |
| Kindig-It Design Custom Builds | $3–5 million |
| Television and Royalties | $1–2 million |
| Merchandise and CF1 Cars | $500k–$1 million |
| Total Net Worth (2026) | $5–8 million |
Dave Kindig House and Luxury Lifestyle
Dave Kindig and his wife Charity live a comfortable and well-appointed lifestyle befitting their success, with a stylish home in Salt Lake City, Utah that reflects their refined tastes. While he keeps much of his private life away from the public eye, his home is reported to be a spacious and modern property that balances family warmth with luxury living. It serves as a personal sanctuary away from the busy world of custom car building and television production.
His love of design doesn’t stop at the garage door — Dave is known to have a keen eye for aesthetics that influences both his living space and his personal style. He enjoys surrounding himself with art, quality craftsmanship, and well-designed spaces, much in the same way he approaches his car builds. This attention to detail carries through every aspect of how he lives, making his lifestyle a natural extension of his professional identity.
When it comes to personal indulgences, Dave’s fleet of custom vehicles is perhaps his most notable luxury. He has built and kept several stunning personal cars over the years, driving machines that are essentially rolling works of art. Combined with travel, family experiences, and the freedom that financial success brings, Dave Kindig lives a life that is rich in both material comfort and personal fulfillment.
Future Plans and Long-Term Goals
Dave Kindig has expressed a strong desire to continue growing the Kindig-It Design brand well into the future, with ambitions to expand the shop’s capacity and take on even more complex and high-profile builds. He envisions the company evolving beyond its current form, potentially launching limited-production builds and product lines that bring his design philosophy to a broader market. His entrepreneurial mindset ensures that he is always looking for the next opportunity to innovate and scale.
On the television front, Dave remains open to new projects that could further showcase his talent and introduce his work to fresh audiences around the world. Whether through new seasons of existing shows or entirely new concepts, he understands the power of media in building a lasting legacy. Storytelling through television has been a key part of his brand, and he intends to keep that momentum going in creative new directions.
At a personal level, Dave is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of automotive designers and builders. He hopes to create opportunities for young talent to learn the trade, develop their skills, and carry the craft forward with the same passion he has shown throughout his career. For Dave Kindig, the ultimate long-term goal is not just personal success, but leaving a meaningful and lasting mark on the custom car world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How rich is Dave Kindig?
Dave Kindig’s net worth is estimated between $5 and $8 million as of 2026, mostly from his custom car business and TV work.
Is Kindig-It still in business?
Yes, Kindig-It Design continues to operate in Salt Lake City, producing custom cars and handling high-end commissions.
How old is Dave Kindig?
Dave Kindig is 54 years old as of January 2026, celebrating his birthday on February 6.
Who is Dave Kindig’s wife?
He is married to Charity Kindig, who co-owns Kindig-It Design and helps manage the business.
Where is Kindig-It Design located?
The shop is based in Salt Lake City, Utah, where all fabrication, painting, and assembly happen in-house.
Conclusion
Dave Kindig’s story is one of the most inspiring in the custom car world — a self-taught designer who turned childhood sketches and raw determination into a globally recognized brand. From cashing out a modest 401(k) to fund a 4,500-square-foot shop in Salt Lake City, to winning the prestigious 2024 Don Ridler Memorial Award for a V12-powered masterpiece that took five years and over $1 million to complete, his journey proves that passion and craftsmanship will always outlast shortcuts and trends.
What sets Dave apart from others in the automotive industry is not just his ability to build stunning cars, but his commitment to doing things the right way. Every hand-drawn sketch, every carefully shaped body panel, and every painstaking paint finish reflects a standard of quality that has earned him the respect of both industry professionals and everyday car enthusiasts around the world.
Den Mark is a passionate writer specializing in celebrity news, biographies, and net worth insights. With a keen eye for detail, he brings readers the latest updates and intriguing stories from the world of fame.
