How do I get my Car into a Movie?

How Do I Get My Car in a Movie?

Ever wondered how to get your car featured in a Hollywood movie, TV show, or music video? Whether you own a classic muscle car, a rare exotic, or just a regular ride that could fit the perfect scene, there’s a process with us to get your vehicle into the spotlight. At Malibu Autobahn Picture Cars, we specialize in sourcing, prepping, and placing cars into film, television, commercials, and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of how you can submit your car to us and get it on the big screen. 

(And earn some extra money on the side!)

What Makes a Great Picture Car?

Every car may be destined for stardom and a surprising variety of vehicles are used in film and TV. While flashy sports cars and rugged trucks often steal the show, productions also need everyday cars—family sedans, vintage classics, delivery vans, cop cars, boats, planes; the list goes on!  Even run-down vehicles are able to fit specific roles. Here are some key elements that make a car attractive for productions:

• Beaters and Specialty Vehicles – Yes, even heavily used or “rough-looking” cars are needed for action scenes, dystopian films, or crime dramas.

• Unique or Iconic Design – Think about instantly recognizable cars like the DeLorean from Back to the Future or the classic muscle cars in Fast & Furious.

• Vintage or Period-Correct Vehicles – Period dramas need vehicles that match the era.

• Well-Maintained Condition – Cars in pristine shape are often in high demand for commercial shoots and music videos.

• Modified or Custom Builds – If your vehicle has a wild look, special modifications, or a lifted suspension, it could be the perfect fit for a sci-fi or action film.

How to Submit Your Car for Consideration

Take High-Quality Photos

The first step is submitting pictures of your vehicle. Productions need to see clear shots of the vehicle. A clean, well-lit car in the photos increases the chances of selection.

Provide Vehicle Details

Along with your photos, include a description of your car with the following details:

• Make, model, year, and color

• Notable features (aftermarket wheels, custom paint jobs, rare trim packages, etc.)

• Any known mechanical issues (important for driving scenes)

• Location (where the car is stored and available for production)

Instead of waiting for Hollywood to find you, submit your car directly to the Malibu Autobahn Picture Car Database. We maintain an extensive vehicle database and work directly with productions looking for the perfect match. By listing your vehicle with us, you increase the chances of landing a gig in a feature film, TV series, commercial, etc. By submitting your vehicle, you are not obligated for any gig that you do not feel comfortable with appearing in! We will reach out to you, the vehicle owner, to see if it is the right fit for any given shoot.

Understanding the Rental Process

If your car is selected, the production will typically rent it for a set period. The terms of the rental agreement with us will include:

• Rental Fee – Depending on the car’s usage, you’ll be compensated accordingly.

• Insurance Coverage – Productions, similarly to us, carry insurance to cover any potential damages while your car is on set.

• Transportation – Sometimes, you may need to deliver the car to the shoot location, or we will arrange transport for you.

Being Flexible and Ready

Hollywood operates on tight schedules, so productions often make last-minute decisions. Having your car available and ready to go can be the key to getting booked.

Will My Car Be Driven or Modified?

It depends on the role your car plays, and how you feel about the modifications. Some vehicles are just parked in the background, while others are actively driven by actors, stunt drivers, or in some cases, you! If modifications are needed (e.g., mounting cameras, changing paint, etc), these changes are discussed beforehand, and restorations can be arranged post-production. These modifications only take place if you, the vehicle owner, are comfortable with the changes.

Get Your Car on the Big Screen!

If you’re serious about getting your car in a movie, submitting it to a professional like Malibu Autobahn Picture Cars is the best way to get noticed. At Malibu Autobahn, we work directly with filmmakers, music video directors, and commercial producers to place the right car in the right scene.

Interested in submitting your vehicle? Send us an email with photos and details to contactus@malibuautobahn.com or fill out this form to register your car today!

Your car might just be the next Hollywood star. ..