This paper shows the importance of 3D scanning and reverse engineering technologies in the automotive industry. Using practical examples (case studies), it shows where, how, and why 3D scanning can be and must be, used in the automotive industry. It presents two case studies from two major fields of usage of 3D scanning technology in the automotive industry: metrology and reverse engineering. For metrology, a case study of deformation analysis of Formula student frame was presented and for reverse engineering 3D scanning and additive manufacturing of car body parts was presented. In addition, the paper gives a comprehensive review of other authors’ research in the field of application of 3D scanning technology in the automotive industry.