Mad Mike Martin – Wiki, Bio, Age, Net Worth, Wife, Kids

Some people tinker. Mad Mike Martin transforms. From the streets of Compton to television screens in over 100 countries, Michael L. Martin—better known as “Mad Mike”—has turned a childhood obsession with electronics and customization into a career that’s redefined what’s possible in automotive design. Whether it’s wiring a minivan for a hot tub, transforming a Land Rover into a yoga studio, or supervising complex celebrity builds at Galpin Auto Sports, Mike’s motto has never wavered: “If it comes out of your mouth, I can do it.”

But the path from a kid with a tricked-out lowrider bicycle to an internationally recognized “Wizard of Wiring” wasn’t a straight road—it was a winding ride through junior high hustle, Air Force discipline, swap meet side jobs, and a relentless drive to push the limits of what a car (or bike… or briefcase) can be. This is the full story, from his early days in Compton to his breakthrough on MTV’s Pimp My Ride, and the personal moments that keep him grounded. Buckle up—this one’s worth the ride.

Early Life & Education

Michael L. Martin, better known as “Mad Mike,” was born on August 28, 1969, in Compton, California, to William (1935–2019) and Anna Lois (1938–1998) Martin. Michael “Mad Mike” Martin grew up in Compton, California, where he developed a lifelong passion for tinkering and customizing anything he could get his hands on. According to Discovery’s biography, he has stated that he once carried a briefcase with plush lining, secret compartments, and a working stereo system. By his own account, by junior high he had built one of the loudest lowrider bicycles in Compton, outfitted with a motorcycle fairing, 6×9 speakers, and a woofer.

While attending Compton High School, Mike wired alarms and sound systems for classmates during breaks, earning extra income. On weekends during his high school years, he participated in “parking lot pimping” at the Compton Swap Meet, installing sound systems immediately after purchase. He later studied Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering at California State University, Dominguez Hills from 1987 to 1989.

Early Career in Customization

Mike’s customization career began in the 1980s with lowrider bikes before moving into car audio. He worked at Allan EDS on Central and Rosecrans under mentor Uzi, learning wiring and installation. He later converted a motorhome into a mobile installation unit, complete with tools for custom work.

From 1989 to 1992, Mike served in the United States Air Force as an Automatic Tracking Radar Technician, including deployment during Operation Desert Storm. His Air Force electronics training laid the groundwork for his automotive electronics expertise.

In 1992, he co-founded Let’s Jam Audio with friend Big Mike, serving the lowrider community during the peak CRW cruising era. The business grew into one of the top customizing shops in the region. He later co-owned Custom Mobile Installations (1994–2000), was Shop Foreman at Stereo 2 Go (1996–2000), and Shop Supervisor at West Coast Customs (2000–2005).

Breakthrough with Pimp My Ride

In 2004, Mike joined MTV’s Pimp My Ride as co-host, shop technician, and electronics specialist. Across seasons 1–4 at West Coast Customs and seasons 5–6 at Galpin Auto Sports, he became known as the “Wizard of Wiring.” His on-screen projects included a hot tub installed in a minivan, a Land Rover converted into a yoga studio, and a Wonder Bread truck outfitted with a chandelier, couch, Super NES system, and MTX Audio JackHammers. The show aired in the U.S. and over 100 other countries, and Mike became widely recognized for his expertise in electronics, sound systems, lighting, and custom controls. He often repeated his motto: “If it comes out of your mouth, I can do it.”

Galpin Auto Sports & Mad Mike Enterprises

When Pimp My Ride moved to Galpin Auto Sports in 2005, Mike became Customizing Supervisor, a position he continues to hold. At GAS, he has overseen high-profile builds for celebrities, corporate clients, and television productions, including projects featured on Discovery Channel’s Car Kings. His work has included unconventional designs and functional builds, such as themed vehicles and highly specialized interiors.

In addition to his role at GAS, Mike operates Mad Mike Enterprises (founded in 1985), providing services as an inventor, customizer, electronics technician, and philanthropist, and taking on projects that range from standard automotive work to highly complex, one-of-a-kind builds.

Personal Life

While Michael “Mad Mike” Martin is a familiar face to fans of Pimp My Ride, his life outside of the garage reveals a dedicated family man. Based on his own words and public posts, a clear picture emerges of his relationships as a father and with his ex-wife.

A Proud Father

Mad Mike is a loving father to three children, Tessa Leniger, Tanieja China M Martin, and Mike Martin. In a Facebook post from August 2015, he referred to them as “My Beautiful Children Tessa Leniger, Tanieja China M Martin and Bad Mike Mike.” On March 7, 2016, he shared that “My Children miss me and want to spend time with me,” showing that despite his busy career, his children remain a central part of his life.

Relationship with His Ex-Wife

Mike has been open about his relationship with his ex-wife, Erica. In his 2015 post, he thanked “My Ex-wife Erica for calling me and being a friend again,” indicating a positive and amicable relationship.

Move Back to Compton

In June 2020, after spending 10 years in the San Fernando Valley, Mike announced he was moving back to Richland Farms in Compton, the place where “Mad Mike” was created. He expressed gratitude for his time in the Valley and looked forward to reconnecting with his roots. In his post, he noted he would continue visiting Galpin Auto Sports and hoped to see friends and fans once COVID-19 restrictions eased.

Media Appearances & Public Profile

Alongside Pimp My Ride, Mike has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, TRL, G4TechTV, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, X-Games, Car Warriors, Gimme the Gigg II, and at major automotive events such as the DUB Show, LA Auto Show, NASCAR, and Extreme AutoFest.

Community Involvement

Mike has volunteered with Disabled American Veterans, Keep America Clean, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Sports for Exceptional Athletes, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Later TV Work & Recognition

In 2020, he appeared on Discovery Channel’s Car Kings. In 2016, he was inducted into the Model/Diecast Hall of Fame in the Automotive Legends category, recognizing his influence on custom automotive culture.