I suspect that it is about 50% reality based at best. Overhaulin is based on a similar theme but these GS people come to YOU t bring a project back from the dead.
When most of the recipients of the show look able bodied, I find that really sad. These guys look like worthless cucks that couldn't change their own oil without buying a repair manual yet they somehow took a car apart and let it sit for years. I've known guys like that....henpecked by their dominant wives and ungrateful kids, it is a sad thing to see a man fall so far from grace.
In the rare instance where the recipient is handicapped, I find the show to be great. It would be a terrible thing to have all the determination but not the ability. This show would be a huge help for those people.