Danny Koker Breaks His Silence: The 5 Worst Employees Ever on Counting Cars—What Really Happened Behind the Scenes?

What happens when the cameras stop rolling and the garage doors close at night? For years, “Counting Cars” gave viewers an inside look at Count’s Kustoms, where roaring engines, custom paint jobs, and a tight-knit crew made for must-see TV.

But what fans didn’t see was the drama simmering beneath the surface. Now, after years of speculation and whispers, Danny Koker has finally revealed the truth: not every member of his team was cut out for the ride.

In a rare and candid moment, Koker—known to millions as the heart and soul of “Counting Cars”—named the five worst employees ever to pass through his famous shop.

Some left quietly, others in a storm of controversy, but all left their mark on the show’s history. So, who were they, and what really went down behind the scenes?

The Rise and Fall of a Dream Team

When “Counting Cars” first hit the airwaves, it promised more than just custom cars and classic restorations. It introduced viewers to a cast of characters who felt like family.

Week after week, fans tuned in not just for the cars, but for the camaraderie, banter, and larger-than-life personalities that made Count’s Kustoms come alive.

But as the seasons rolled on, something changed. Familiar faces started disappearing without explanation. Some exits were quiet, while others left behind a trail of rumors and unanswered questions. For years, fans speculated about what really happened to their favorite mechanics and fabricators.

Danny Koker Speaks Out: “Not Everyone Was Built for This”

In a recent interview, Danny Koker finally addressed the elephant in the room. “This business isn’t easy,” he admitted. “It takes passion, commitment, and a willingness to work as a team. Not everyone who walked through those doors was ready for that.”

Koker went on to name the five employees he considers the worst in the show’s history—though, out of respect for privacy, he stopped short of giving full names. Instead, he shared stories that shed light on why these team members didn’t last.

The 5 Worst Employees: What Went Wrong?

The No-Show Mechanic : One of the earliest departures, this employee had the skills but not the work ethic. Chronic lateness and unexplained absences put projects behind schedule and strained relationships in the shop. “You can’t build trust if you’re not even showing up,” Koker recalled.
The Drama Starter: Every workplace has its share of conflict, but this staffer took it to another level. Gossip, arguments, and a constant need for attention turned the shop floor into a battleground. “We’re here to build cars, not egos,” Koker said. “There’s no room for drama when you’re working against the clock.”
The Shortcut King: In the custom car world, quality is everything. But this employee was known for cutting corners—sometimes at the expense of safety. “He’d rush a job just to say it was done,” Koker explained. “That’s not how we do things at Count’s Kustoms.”
The Disappearing Act: Some departures are sudden, but this one was a mystery. One day, he was a valued member of the team; the next, he was gone without a word. Rumors swirled, but Koker insists it came down to personal issues. “Sometimes, life gets in the way. I hope he found what he was looking for.”
The Rule Breaker: Every shop has rules for a reason—especially when it comes to safety and respect. This employee repeatedly ignored both, putting himself and others at risk. “I had to make a tough call,” Koker said. “You can’t have someone endangering the team or the business.”

Behind the Scenes: The Realities of Reality TV

While the drama makes for compelling television, Koker is quick to point out that reality TV only shows part of the story. “What you see on screen is a fraction of what goes on,” he explained. “There are good days and bad days, just like any family.”

He also acknowledged the pressure that comes with fame. “Being on TV changes people. Some rise to the occasion, others can’t handle it. At the end of the day, I need people who are here for the cars, not the cameras.”

The Aftermath: Where Are They Now?

As for the former employees, many have moved on to other shops or left the industry altogether. Some have spoken out about their experiences, while others have stayed silent. Koker wishes them well, but makes it clear: “Count’s Kustoms is about passion, respect, and teamwork. That’s never going to change.”

The Bottom Line

The story of “Counting Cars” is about more than custom rides and roaring engines. It’s about people—their strengths, their flaws, and the challenges of working together under the spotlight.

Danny Koker’s revelations pull back the curtain on the realities of running a world-famous shop and remind us that even the best teams face bumps in the road.

For fans, it’s a glimpse into the human side of their favorite show—and a reminder that what happens off-camera can be just as dramatic as what makes it to air.