Quick Bio
👤 Name: Derek Bieri
🎂 Born: May 16, 1984
📍 Birthplace: Minot, North Dakota, USA
🎥 Profession: YouTuber, Automotive Restorer
📏 Height: 6 feet (1.83 m)
⚖️ Weight: ~80 kg (176 lbs)
💰 Net Worth: $1 – $5 million (estimated)
👩❤️👨 Wife: Jessica Bieri
👦 Children: Three sons
🏡 Residence: Tennessee, USA
🚗 Channel: Vice Grip Garage
📱 Social Media: @vicegripgarage
✨ Known For: Authentic, budget-friendly car restorations
Early Life and Background
Derek Bieri was born on May 16, 1984, in Minot, North Dakota, USA. He grew up on a small family farm, where he developed a love for machinery, engines, and the hands-on lifestyle that later defined his YouTube career. Growing up in a rural setting, Derek learned to fix things out of necessity rather than luxury. This practical upbringing shaped his creative and mechanical mindset.
From an early age, Derek’s curiosity about how things worked drove him to experiment with engines and farm equipment. His early experiences formed the foundation for his passion for automotive restoration and repair. Before his online fame, Derek worked as an automotive technician and later took on corporate roles before deciding to pursue his passion full-time.
The Spark That Created Vice Grip Garage
Derek’s transition from everyday mechanic to internet personality began in 2018 when he launched Vice Grip Garage, a YouTube channel dedicated to rescuing old, abandoned cars. His style stood out for its simplicity, humor, and authenticity. Unlike many highly polished automotive shows, Derek’s content was raw, relatable, and filled with practical advice.
Each video follows Derek as he revives a forgotten car, often sitting untouched for decades, using limited tools and a tight budget. His genuine approach, Midwest charm, and deep mechanical knowledge quickly resonated with audiences worldwide. Today, Vice Grip Garage has over 2 million subscribers and continues to grow steadily.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Derek Bieri is 41 years old. He stands at an estimated height of around 6 feet (1.83 meters), although some reports vary slightly, ranging from 5’11” to 6’2″. He maintains an average build, weighing approximately 80 kilograms (176 pounds).
His rugged, down-to-earth appearance reflects his hands-on lifestyle. With short brown hair, blue eyes, and a welcoming smile, Derek embodies the approachable persona that his fans admire. His style is practical usually jeans, work boots, and a Vice Grip Garage cap perfectly fitting the image of a hardworking car restorer.
Family and Personal Life
Derek is married to Jessica Bieri, who plays an essential role in the success of Vice Grip Garage. Jessica occasionally appears in videos, helping with behind-the-scenes operations, family coordination, and business logistics. The couple shares a close relationship and values family time deeply.
Together, Derek and Jessica have three sons, who occasionally make brief appearances in their videos. Derek often speaks about raising his boys with the same principles of honesty, hard work, and humility that he learned as a child. Although he shares glimpses of his personal life online, Derek generally keeps his family’s privacy intact, focusing more on cars than on drama.
The Journey to YouTube Success
Before YouTube fame, Derek worked in both the automotive and corporate industries. His dissatisfaction with corporate life pushed him to take a leap of faith. Combining his mechanical skills with his passion for storytelling, Derek created a niche that bridged education and entertainment.
Vice Grip Garage quickly grew as viewers connected with Derek’s mission to save forgotten cars from being scrapped. His honest presentation and humility drew audiences who preferred authenticity over perfection. Today, Derek’s YouTube channel has evolved into a full-time business that includes merchandise sales, sponsorships, and event appearances.
He has also expanded his influence by appearing at car shows, auctions, and restoration events, where he interacts with fans and shares insights about classic car culture.
Net Worth and Income Sources
While exact figures are not publicly verified, Derek Bieri’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million. The majority of his income comes from YouTube ad revenue, sponsorships, brand collaborations, and merchandise sales through his Vice Grip Garage brand.
Additionally, Derek earns from appearances at automotive events and partnerships with companies that align with his brand values. Despite his success, Derek’s approach to money remains humble. He has often expressed gratitude for being able to make a living doing what he loves, emphasizing passion over profit.
Lifestyle and Personality
Derek’s lifestyle is grounded in simplicity. Even with millions of followers, he maintains his rural roots and continues to work in a modest workshop. He and his family relocated from Minnesota to Tennessee, citing better weather, lower taxes, and a more family-friendly environment.
His personality shines through in his videos witty, patient, and filled with dry humor. Derek doesn’t rely on flashy edits or expensive tools; instead, he focuses on showing real restoration work. Fans often praise him for being the same person on and off camera authentic, relatable, and hardworking.
Career Achievements and Recognition
Since launching Vice Grip Garage, Derek has achieved significant milestones. His YouTube channel surpassing two million subscribers is just the beginning. His work has been featured in automotive publications, and he has collaborated with several brands in the restoration and tool industries.
Derek also attends major automotive gatherings such as Mecum Auctions and SEMA events, where he connects with fans and industry peers. His contributions extend beyond entertainment he has inspired countless people to pick up tools, restore old cars, and embrace hands-on craftsmanship.
Fun Facts About Derek Bieri
- Derek once filmed his first video by taping an old phone to his garage door to record a car repair session.
- He often jokes about his projects being held together by “hope, faith, and a little duct tape.”
- His favorite car brand is Chevrolet, and he has a particular love for vintage muscle cars.
- Derek values teaching through humor, often turning mechanical failures into learning moments.
- Despite his fame, he avoids unnecessary spotlight and continues living a quiet, family-oriented life.
Social Media Presence
Derek maintains an active presence across multiple platforms to connect with fans:
- YouTube: Vice Grip Garage – over 2 million subscribers.
- Instagram: @vicegripgarage – regularly shares car rescues and behind-the-scenes content.
- Facebook: Vice Grip Garage page – used to engage with fans and share project updates.
His genuine communication style and willingness to respond to fans have strengthened his reputation as one of the most approachable creators in the automotive community.
Lessons from Derek Bieri’s Journey
Derek Bieri’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and authenticity. His rise from a small-town farm boy to one of YouTube’s most recognizable automotive personalities demonstrates that success doesn’t always come from big budgets or fancy equipment. Instead, it comes from doing what you love and staying true to your values.
He often emphasizes that anyone can achieve their dreams by taking small, consistent steps. His story encourages viewers to get their hands dirty, take risks, and never underestimate the power of hard work.
Conclusion
Derek Bieri stands as a testament to what can happen when skill, passion, and authenticity align. At 41 years old, with an estimated height of 6 feet, a supportive wife and family, and a thriving YouTube career, Derek continues to inspire millions. His success story isn’t about fame it’s about doing what you love, staying grounded, and helping others along the way.
Through Vice Grip Garage, Derek Bieri has proven that real success isn’t built in an office but in the garage, one wrench turn at a time.
FAQs
Who is Derek Bieri?
Derek Bieri is an American YouTuber and mechanic best known for his channel Vice Grip Garage, where he restores abandoned cars and shares practical automotive content.
How old is Derek Bieri?
He was born on May 16, 1984, making him 41 years old as of 2025.
What is Derek Bieri’s height and weight?
He stands around 6 feet (1.83 m) tall and weighs approximately 80 kg (176 lbs).
What is Derek Bieri’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million, primarily from YouTube, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.
Is Derek Bieri married?
Yes, Derek is married to Jessica Bieri, and they have three sons together.
