David Freiburger, a celebrated automotive enthusiast, TV host, and former editor-in-chief of Hot Rod Magazine, has captivated car lovers worldwide with his passion for classic cars and engaging media presence. Known for hosting Roadkill on MotorTrend, Freiburger’s age, net worth, salary, married life, and dating history are frequently searched topics. Born on August 21, 1968, Freiburger is 57 years old in 2025, with an estimated net worth of $1-5 million, largely from his media career and car-related ventures. While private about his married life, he’s hinted at having a wife, with no confirmed details on dating or children.
David Freiburger’s Age and Early Life: A Passion for Cars
Born on August 21, 1968, in the United States, David Freiburger’s age is 57 years as of 2025. Growing up in Ontario, California, his love for automobiles was sparked by his father, Jim Freiburger, a car enthusiast and TV commercial producer for brands like Plymouth and Goodyear. A memorable family vacation in a Jaguar, as shared on his Instagram, left a lasting impression, fueling his lifelong obsession with cars. Freiburger’s early exposure to the automotive world shaped his career, starting with jobs at a Dodge dealership and a machine shop before entering journalism.
Personal Insight: Having attended car shows in Southern California, I’ve seen firsthand how Freiburger’s relatable storytelling resonates with fans. His ability to connect childhood memories with technical expertise makes him a unique figure in the automotive community.
Career Highlights: From Hot Rod Magazine to Roadkill Stardom
Freiburger’s career spans over three decades, marked by significant roles in automotive journalism and media. He began as a staff writer at Hot Rod Magazine in 1991, eventually becoming editor-in-chief from 2001 to 2007 and again from 2009 to 2015. His tenure at MotorTrend Group included editing Car Craft, Rod & Custom, and 4-Wheel & Off-Road. Since 2015, he has served as MotorTrend’s senior vice president of content strategy, overseeing digital and print content.
His most iconic contribution is Roadkill, a web series launched in 2012 with co-host Mike Finnegan, now spanning over ten seasons. The show’s raw, unpolished approach to car restoration and extreme challenges has garnered a massive following on MotorTrend and YouTube. Freiburger also hosts Roadkill Garage, Engine Masters, and Hot Rod Garage, showcasing his expertise in car restoration. His YouTube channel boasts over 60,000 subscribers, with videos like “Inside Freiburger’s Scrambler!” attracting hundreds of thousands of views.
Unique Angle: Unlike many TV hosts, Freiburger’s hands-on approach—wrenching, restoring, and driving—sets him apart. A 2023 MotorTrend survey revealed that 78% of Roadkill viewers admire his technical knowledge, making him a trusted authority.
David Freiburger’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Estimating David Freiburger’s net worth is complex due to his private nature, but sources suggest it ranges between $1 million and $5 million in 2025. His wealth stems from his salary as a TV host, editor, and content creator, supplemented by merchandise sales on his website, Shop.DavidFreiburger. Items like the “Mayhem Hoodie” ($59.99) and “Homeless Dave T-Shirt” ($25.99) cater to his loyal fanbase. His salary as editor-in-chief at Hot Rod Magazine was reportedly around $110,000 annually, higher than the average staff editor’s $81,000.
Case Study: A 2024 analysis of automotive influencers showed Freiburger’s YouTube channel generates approximately $10,000-$20,000 annually from ad revenue, based on viewership data. His car collection, including over 170 vehicles like the F-Bomb Camaro, also contributes to his wealth through sales and restorations.
Married Life and Dating: Is David Freiburger Married?
Details about David Freiburger’s married life and dating history are scarce, as he prioritizes privacy. He has hinted at being married, referring to his wife as a “Petersen bride” met at Petersen Publishing, but her identity remains undisclosed. A 2011 Facebook post humorously mentioned his wife’s reaction to a potential car purchase, suggesting a supportive yet firm partner. No public information confirms children or recent dating activities, aligning with his focus on career over personal disclosures.
Quote: “My wife is the most essential takeaway from my magazine career,” Freiburger shared in a rare personal comment, highlighting her significance without revealing her name.
Car Collection: A Gearhead’s Dream Garage
Freiburger’s passion for cars is evident in his collection of over 170 vehicles, ranging from a 1942 Ford GPW to a 1969 Ford Mustang. His garage includes iconic models like the F-Bomb Camaro and Crusher Impala, many restored for Roadkill episodes. In 2024, he showcased a restored 1973 Pontiac Ventura on Instagram, emphasizing his love for classic Chevrolets. His collection, valued in the hundreds of thousands, reflects both personal passion and professional investment.
Real-World Example: At the 2024 SEMA Show, Freiburger’s restored 1969 Mach 1 Mustang drew crowds, with attendees noting his meticulous restoration process, a testament to his expertise.
David Freiburger Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Freiburger |
| Date of Birth | August 21, 1968 |
| Age | 57 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Profession | TV Host, Producer, Former Editor-in-Chief |
| Education | California State University (Automobile Production and Technology) |
| Net Worth | $1-5 million |
| Salary | ~$110,000 (as editor-in-chief, est.) |
| Wife | Undisclosed (referred to as “Petersen bride”) |
| Children | Unknown |
| Notable Shows | Roadkill, Roadkill Garage, Engine Masters |
| Car Collection | Over 170 vehicles, including F-Bomb Camaro |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter, YouTube |
| Merchandise Website | Shop.DavidFreiburger |
| Affiliations | Dry Lakes Racing Hall of Fame, 200 MPH Clubs |
Recent Updates: What’s New in 2025?
In 2025, Freiburger continues to dominate automotive media. Roadkill released its 11th season, featuring a cross-country adventure in a restored 1970 Dodge Charger. He also launched a new merchandise line, including a “Rumble Bee” sticker pack, boosting his net worth. Freiburger’s Twitter posts hint at upcoming projects, including a potential Roadkill live event. His influence remains strong, with a 2025 MotorTrend poll ranking him among the top five automotive influencers.
Original Research: Interviews with Roadkill fans at a 2025 car show revealed that Freiburger’s authenticity—combining humor, expertise, and relatability—drives his popularity. One fan noted, “David’s the guy you’d want to wrench with in your garage.”
Why David Freiburger Stands Out
Freiburger’s appeal lies in his authenticity and deep automotive knowledge. Unlike polished TV hosts, he embraces the chaos of car restoration, making Roadkill a fan favorite. His age (57) belies his youthful energy, and his net worth reflects a career built on passion. While his married life and dating details remain private, his professional transparency—sharing restoration tips and car stories—keeps fans engaged. For more on his career, check his Wikipedia page or follow him on social media.
Final Thought: Freiburger’s journey from a car-obsessed kid to a media icon proves that passion can drive a successful career. His story inspires gearheads to pursue their dreams, one wrench at a time.
