# Overhaulin' (2004)

> A designer-led crew secretly rebuilds a deserving car owner's worn vehicle into a custom showpiece and surprises them with the transformation.

Canonical page: https://ember.film/tv/1652

## Facts

- Seasons: 10
- Episodes: 122
- Episode runtime: 45 min
- Status: Ended
- Genres: reality, documentary
- Created by: Bud Brutsman
- Network: TLC, Velocity, Discovery, MotorTrend
- Cast: Chris Jacobs, Chip Foose, Courtney Hansen, Jessi Combs, Adrienne Janic, Arianny Celeste, Ashley Force Hood, Vince Neil
- TMDB rating: 6.8/10
- IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0408409/

## Ember's analysis

- Pacing: brisk
- Intensity: mild
- Complexity: simple
- Violence: none
- Tone: upbeat, celebratory, feel good, hands-on, warm

## What critics say

Critics and viewers generally enjoy the craftsmanship and surprise reveals, while finding the formula predictable over its long run.

## Synopsis

Overhaulin' is an American automotive reality series in which a designer-led crew secretly takes a cherished but worn car from an unsuspecting owner and rebuilds it into a custom showpiece within a tight window. Each episode follows the transformation from teardown through bodywork, paint, engine and interior, building toward a surprise reveal when the finished vehicle is presented to its owner. The format is case-of-the-week, with a new car and a new story each time, and the show runs across many seasons on several cable networks. Its tone is upbeat, warm and celebratory, with the emotional payoff centered on the owner's delight and gratitude. Hands-on workshop detail, hot rod craftsmanship and the thrill of the reveal give it a feel-good appeal. Viewers who enjoy makeover shows, car culture, or craft-driven reality television will find it easy and satisfying to watch. Each installment is self-contained and stacks up into a cheerful, dependable comfort watch. Its straightforward structure rewards casual viewing, while the mechanical detail satisfies enthusiasts.

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