LegitStreetCars

About LegitStreetCars

Alex Palmeri, known as the creator behind the YouTube channel LegitStreetCars, has established himself as one of the automotive community's most respected content creators. With over 1.39 million subscribers and more than 273 million total views, his channel focuses on rescuing, restoring, and modifying abandoned and broken vehicles^[1]. Palmeri operates from his facility known as "Legit Street Quarters," where he documents his automotive adventures for an engaged global audience. youtube

Background and Career Path

Palmeri's automotive journey began early in his life, with his mother recounting how he would sit by windows watching cars drive by when he was just three or four years old^[2]. He attended Notre Dame College Prep, graduating in 2002, before pursuing automotive education at WyoTech, where he earned an Associate's degree in Applied Science from 2002 to 2003^[3].glwinc+1 Following his formal education, Palmeri built a distinguished career as an automotive technician. He worked for nine years as a master certified journeyman technician at Mercedes-Benz of Chicago, gaining extensive expertise in luxury vehicle repair and maintenance^[4]. After his tenure at Mercedes-Benz, he transitioned to work for the City of Chicago as a heavy-duty diesel mechanic, eventually becoming shop foreman at a large fleet garage^[5]. youtube+1

YouTube Channel Creation and Growth

LegitStreetCars was launched on April 20, 2016, born from Palmeri's desire to share automotive knowledge and improve his public speaking skills^[6]. The channel's inception came about when Palmeri wanted to document a brake caliper swap on his 2001 Trans Am for car forum members. Instead of typing out instructions, he decided to create a video and needed a platform to host it^[7]. youtube+1 The channel gained significant traction with videos focusing on Mercedes-Benz repairs, leveraging Palmeri's expertise as a master technician. His authentic approach to automotive content, combining education with entertainment, resonated strongly with viewers and led to rapid subscriber growth^[8]. As of September 2025, the channel has uploaded 510 videos and maintains an estimated monthly earning range of $9,000 to $26,000^[1].instagram youtube

Content and Production Style

The channel specializes in comprehensive vehicle restoration projects, with Palmeri typically purchasing abandoned, broken, or auction vehicles and documenting their complete revival. His content philosophy centers on creating complete narratives with clear beginnings, detailed problem-solving processes, and satisfying conclusions rather than releasing quick, incomplete updates^[9].speakrj Palmeri's approach emphasizes authenticity and education. Unlike traditional car review channels, LegitStreetCars focuses on real-world automotive challenges and practical solutions. The videos often feature detailed explanations of repair processes, parts sourcing information, and honest assessments of vehicle conditions^[10].youtube

Notable Projects and Achievements

One of Palmeri's most celebrated projects was the restoration of a 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 that had been abandoned for 32 years. The comprehensive restoration took over 120 hours and was documented across multiple episodes, culminating in the vehicle's successful revival and first drive^[11]^[12]. During this project, Palmeri even connected with original DeLorean company personnel to discuss the vehicle's history and significance^[13].legitstreetcars+2 The channel has also featured high-profile vehicle rescues, including a stolen 2016 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat that Palmeri purchased at auction for $23,300. The vehicle had been stolen and lived in for three years before being recovered by police, providing compelling content that attracted attention from automotive publications^[14].reddit

Business Operations and Expansion

In July 2021, Palmeri made the significant decision to quit his municipal job with the City of Chicago, leaving behind a six-figure salary, pension, and benefits to pursue YouTube content creation full-time^[15]. This transition allowed him to dedicate more time to video production and channel growth while maintaining better work-life balance.socialblade The channel operates from Legit Street Quarters, Palmeri's dedicated facility equipped with professional-grade automotive equipment, lifts, and filming capabilities^[16]. In 2025, he announced the acquisition of a new facility called "Lake Garage," expanding his operational capacity^[17].youtube+1 LegitStreetCars also operates a merchandise business through legitstreetcars.com, offering branded apparel, tools, and automotive accessories^[18]. The merchandise operation is managed in part by Max Beecher, who joined as Palmeri's first full-time employee in December 2021, serving as both video editor and merchandise manager^[19].youtubers youtube

Community Engagement and Charitable Work

The channel maintains strong community engagement through regular meet-and-greet events, typically held at automotive venues throughout the Chicago area. These events feature Palmeri's project vehicles and provide opportunities for fans to connect with the creator and view the restored cars in person^[20].socialblade Palmeri has also leveraged his platform for charitable causes. In 2022, he organized a fundraising campaign for the National MS Society using a BMW E30 giveaway, ultimately raising over $53,000 for the organization. The campaign was particularly meaningful as it honored a vehicle donor's father who had been affected by multiple sclerosis^[21].365driven

Industry Recognition and Collaborations

The channel has gained recognition within the automotive industry, with Palmeri participating in sponsored builds and collaborations. He completed a project for eBay Motors, creating a custom truck that was featured in a 15-city nationwide tour^[22]. Additionally, his work has been featured in various automotive publications and websites, including The Drive and Supercar Blondie^[23]^[14]. youtubereddit+1 Professional detailing service Chicago Auto Pros has documented their work on Palmeri's Mercedes E55 AMG, highlighting the vehicle's significance both as a project car and as the star of the rapidly growing YouTube channel^[24]. This recognition from industry professionals underscores the channel's impact on automotive culture both locally and nationally. youtube