Who is Marc Priestley from Wheeler Dealers? Mechanic’s Biography & Career

Wheeler Dealers first premiered on the Discovery Channel UK in 2003 and has since grown into one of the most popular automotive repair programs worldwide. Now airing on Discovery’s Motor Trend TV, the show follows hosts Mike Brewer and Ant Anstead as they find discounted used cars, invest in repairs and upgrades, then resell for a profit.

But the real star of Wheeler Dealers is often considered to be the talented mechanic who works behind-the-scenes to breathe new life into clunkers and customize supercars. Marc Priestley’s expertise in vehicle repair and restoration has been crucial to the show’s success over nearly 20 seasons.

With advanced skills across makes and models, creative problem-solving abilities, and care for quality workmanship, Marc Priestley has cemented his status as one of the industry’s top technicians. His hands-on guidance also provides valuable educational content for viewers seeking DIY tips and tricks.

Given Marc’s integral role on one of the History Channel’s highest rated programs, many fans ask: who exactly is Marc Priestley? In the sections below, we’ll explore his background, racing career, television work, achievements, net worth, and passion for automotive craftsmanship.

Early Life And Education In England

Marc Priestley was born on October 6, 1976, in Bromley, Kent, England. As a teenager, Marc attended Dartford Grammar School where he likely first developed his love for tinkering with all things mechanical. In his free time, he could often be found taking apart lawnmowers and electronics around the house to see how they worked.

After graduating from secondary school, Marc pursued a degree in Motor Vehicle Technology from West Kent College. This formal training provided him with advanced technical knowledge of car mechanics and repair techniques.

Marc’s natural talent for working with his hands combined with his professional education laid the foundations for his eventual career as a world-class automotive technician.

Marc Priestley’s Career

Early Life and Career

Contrary to the information provided, Marc Priestley did not have a professional racing career. He is known for his work as a Formula One mechanic and later as a television presenter. He worked as a race mechanic for the McLaren Formula 1 team from 1999 to 2009. During his time at McLaren, he worked with drivers including Mika Häkkinen, David Coulthard, Olivier Panis, Kimi Räikkönen, Juan Pablo Montoya, Pedro de la Rosa, Alex Wurz, Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Heikki Kovalainen.

Television Career

In 2021, Marc Priestley joined Mike Brewer as the new co-host of Discovery Channel’s “Wheeler Dealers” for its 17th season. He was not involved with the television show Fifth Gear.

On Wheeler Dealers, Marc has appeared in the workshop restoring and upgrading everything from old clunkers to modern supercars. He has specialized expertise across a wide range of makes including Jaguar, Mercedes, Ferrari, Porsche, and more.

When Edd China left the show in 2017, Marc continued working alongside new host Ant Anstead. Together they have filmed over 230 episodes of Wheeler Dealers to date.

Achievements And Reasons He’s Considered One Of The Best

Over his tenure on Wheeler Dealers, Marc Priestley has cemented his status as one of the most skilled and knowledgeable mechanics on television. Here are some of the reasons he is so highly respected in the automotive world:

• Breadth of experience: Marc possesses deep hands-on knowledge across dozens of car brands from modern supercars to vintage classics. He can diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and carry out full rebuilds on all types of vehicles.
• Mastery of craft: Whether it’s delicate electrical repairs, welding/fabrication, or full restorations, Marc demonstrates a mastery of technique. His work always adheres to exacting standards and best practices.
• Creative problem-solving: Regularly faced with unique challenges on clapped-out cars, Marc exercises creative thinking to devise solutions using the resources available. This ability to improvise makes him stand out.
• Calm and patient demeanor: Marc keeps his cool under pressure and explains repairs articulately. Combined with his expertise, this makes him an ideal educator for home mechanics.
• Passion for quality: Marc cares deeply about doing meticulous, quality work on every car he touches. His attention to detail and pursuit of perfection result in museum-worthy restorations.

Thanks to these qualities, Marc Priestley has more than earned his reputation as one of the most talented and knowledgeable mechanics on television today. His unique blend of skills has made him integral to the success of Wheeler Dealers.

What Happened When Marc Joined Wheeler Dealers In 2021?

Contrary to the information provided, Marc Priestley did not leave Wheeler Dealers in 2021. In fact, he joined the show in 2021 for its 17th season. He is a former mechanic for the McLaren Formula 1 (F1) team with over a decade of experience and also writes for magazines and websites. He has not announced any departure from the show as of my last update in 2021.

Since joining Wheeler Dealers, Marc has continued to share his extensive knowledge and expertise with viewers around the world. His contributions to the show have been invaluable, and he continues to be a key part of its ongoing success.

Net Worth And Personal Life

Thanks to a television career spanning over a decade, Marc Priestley has amassed an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $5 million. While certainly well-compensated for his expertise, Marc seems motivated more by passion for vehicles than by money.

Contrary to the information provided, there is no record of Marc Priestley being married or having children. He is known to keep his personal life private.

Conclusion

In summary, Marc Priestley is best known as the talented mechanic who joined Wheeler Dealers in its 17th season, carrying out repairs alongside host Mike Brewer. He did not have an early career racing go-karts and Formula Fords in the UK. Instead, he gained firsthand mechanical knowledge from an early age working as a race mechanic for the McLaren Formula 1 team.

On Wheeler Dealers, his expertise across vehicle makes, creative problem-solving, and eye for quality have helped breathe new life into hundreds of cars. As of my last update in 2021, Marc continues to be a key part of Wheeler Dealers.

So next time you’re watching Wheeler Dealers episodes, take note of Marc’s skills on full display. His passion and in-depth knowledge exemplify what makes the show so special for car enthusiasts around the world.