The 10 Best Side Jobs For Mechanics To Make Extra Cash

Boost your earnings with these lucrative revenue streams

Many people seek passive income streams to complement their primary earnings, so we did our own research for auto mechanics, offering solutions to boost earnings.

From car accessories repair consulting to an online course, these opportunities utilize your unique mechanical skills and expertise in a variety of ways.

With the gig economy in full swing, auto mechanics possess knowledge and skills that are hard for ordinary people to acquire online.

The 10 Best Side Jobs For Mechanics To Make Extra Money

We describe each side job in detail, including earning potential, pros and cons, and client acquisition strategies to maximize your efficiency and revenue.

By exploring these options, you can enhance your financial well-being and achieve greater career satisfaction, turning your spare time into a productive and profitable venture.

Let’s dive into these side hustles to maximize your skills and secure a more stable financial future for you and your family.

10. Teaching Car Owners Basic Car Repair

Teaching auto owners basic car break repairs is a profitable side hustle for a car mechanic, as most people don’t have a clue what’s going under the hood.

This involves offering an online course teaching auto owners to perform simple maintenance tasks and auto repairs, such as oil changes and brake pad replacements.

To make money teaching basic auto repairs, you must have excellent presentation skills and the ability to communicate complex mechanical concepts simply.

The pros of this side hustle include flexible hours, the potential for steady work, and the satisfaction of empowering others to take care of their vehicles.

There are cons to consider as you must be patient and adaptable, as you will be teaching individuals with varying levels of mechanical knowledge.

However, finding the right clients and building a good reputation as a knowledgeable and effective teacher can also take time.

Once you’re making money, familiarity with financial tips for working in the gig economy can help you manage your passive income and expenses effectively.

You can promote your online course through social media, local classifieds, and partnerships with community centers or educational institutions to attract customers. Offering free or discounted introductory classes can help attract clients and build your reputation, but remember that your earnings will vary from month to month.

Earnings from teaching basic auto repairs are based on your hourly rates and the number of students you attract to your classes.

Typically, you might charge between $50 and $100 per person per class, depending on the length and complexity of the material.

It means you could potentially earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per month or more, depending on the demand in your area.

9. Earn Money As A Test Drive Coach

Offering services as a test drive coach is a great side hustle for a car mechanic with extensive driving experience and knowledge.

This job involves coaching individuals who are preparing for driving tests or seeking to improve their driving skills and confidence.

To make money as a test drive coach, you need to have excellent driving skills, patience, and the ability to communicate effectively with your clients.

The pros of this side hustle include flexible hours, the ability to set your own rates, and the satisfaction of helping others become safer drivers.

But, there are cons to consider as the job can be demanding, requiring you to be patient and calm, even with nervous or inexperienced drivers.

Also, building a reputation for effective coaching and gaining the trust of your clients can take time and is best achieved through word of mouth.

Understanding what the gig economy offers can provide insights into additional opportunities and resources available to auto mechanics transitioning to gig work.

You can promote your services through social media, local classifieds, and word of mouth or partnering with driving schools to find customers.

You can offer free initial consultations to help attract your initial clients who can provide testimonials to help you build credibility.

Earnings as a test drive coach vary based on local rates and the volume of work but range between $50 and $100 per hour.

This means you could potentially earn between $1,000 and $3,000 per month or more, depending on the demand in your area.

8. Earn Money As A Car Finder

Working as a car finder is a side hustle for auto mechanics with a keen eye for good deals and extensive automotive market knowledge.

This job involves assisting clients in finding the right car for their needs and budget, negotiating deals, and ensuring the buyer gets the best value.

To make money as a car finder, you must have a good understanding of car values, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to build trust.

The pros of this side hustle include the potential for high profit margins, flexible hours, and the satisfaction of helping clients find their ideal vehicle.

The job can be competitive, and building a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness is essential, as is staying updated on market trends and prices.

Familiarity with accounting tips can help you manage your finances and maximize your earnings – an essential skill if you are to succeed.

You can promote your services through social media, online marketplaces, and networking with local mechanic shops and auto dealerships to find customers.

Building a portfolio of successful car finds and getting referrals from satisfied clients are crucial for establishing credibility in this field.

Earnings can vary based on the number of deals you close and the commission structure, with typical commissions of 1 to 5% of the car's sale price.

This means that if you broker just a few monthly sales, you could make between $2,000 and $10,000, or more, in extra money.

7. Inspecting Used Cars

Providing inspection services for used cars is a valuable side hustle for auto mechanics who want to help auto owners make informed purchasing decisions.

This job thoroughly inspects used vehicles for potential issues and provides detailed reports on their condition and up-to-date market-related prices.

To make money as a used car inspector, you must have a keen eye for detail and knowledge of different car models and common problems.

The upside of this side hustle includes flexible hours, the ability to charge premium inspection rates, and the potential for steady work.

The job can be time-consuming, and building a good reputation is essential, requiring you to stay updated on the latest car models and technologies.

To find customers, you can partner with auto dealerships and mechanic shops selling used cars and promote your services through online classifieds.

Offering a flat rate for inspections and providing detailed, easy-to-understand reports can help build trust and credibility and increase word-of-mouth marketing.

Being aware of the gig economy can help you understand the broader market dynamics and identify new opportunities for growth.

Earnings vary based on your rates and the volume of work but plan on charging between $100 and $300 per inspection.

This means you could earn between $1,000 and $5,000 per month, or more, depending on the demand in your area.

6. Small Motor Or Custom Repair Service

Offering small motor or custom repair services is a specialized side hustle that you can provide niche markets and enthusiasts.

This job involves repairing small engines or providing custom modifications for a range of vehicles, including motorcycles, ATVs, or snowmobiles.

To make money in this field, you need to have a thorough understanding of small engines and the ability to perform custom modifications.

This side hustle has the potential for high-profit margins and the satisfaction of working on unique projects with enthusiastic clients.

It allows you to tap into a passionate customer base that values craftsmanship and attention to detail, allowing you to charge more for quality work.

This type of work can be time-consuming, requiring specialized tools and supplies, and finding the right clients can be challenging.

Understanding gig economy insurance is crucial to protecting your business and managing risks effectively should something go wrong with a project.

To attract customers, you can promote your services through social media, online forums, and at local events or shows related to motorcycles and small engines.

Building a portfolio of your work and getting referrals from satisfied clients are crucial for establishing credibility in this field.

Earnings from small motor or custom repair services are variable depending on your location and range from $100 to $1,000 or more per job.

On average, you could earn between $2,000 and $8,000 per month, depending on the number of projects you take on and their complexity.

5. Basic Auto Repairs On The Side

Performing basic auto repairs on the side is a straightforward and profitable side hustle for auto mechanics who don’t have their own businesses.

This involves offering services like oil changes, brake pad replacements, and tire rotations to auto owners who prefer convenient and affordable service options.

To make money with basic car repairs, you must have a solid foundation of mechanic skills and access to essential tools and supplies.

The pros of this side hustle include the ability to set your own rates and schedule, as well as the relatively low startup costs.

It also allows you to build a regular client base and enjoy steady work, but it can be physically demanding and may require travel.

Competing with established mechanic shops can be challenging, and you need to build a reputation for reliability and quality service.

To find customers, you can promote your services through local classifieds, offering promotions and discounts to first-time clients, which can help attract business.

Networking with local car dealerships and auto parts stores can also provide referral opportunities, but be careful not to tread on anyone’s toes.

It’s also essential to stay informed about gig worker tax deductions to maximize your earnings and manage your finances effectively.

Earnings from basic auto repairs can vary based on your rates and the volume of work, with typical billing between $50 and $150 per repair.

4. Become A Remote Mechanic

Becoming a remote mechanic is a modern side hustle that leverages technology to provide car repair advice and diagnostics without being physically present.

This involves using video calls, chat platforms, and other online tools to assist auto owners with troubleshooting and fixing cars.

To make money as a remote mechanic, you need to have excellent diagnostic skills and be comfortable using digital communication tools.

You can work from anywhere, enjoy flexible hours, and have the potential to reach a broader market than your local area.

It also allows you to offer your services at a lower cost since there are no overhead expenses like a physical shop.

It’s challenging to diagnose issues without being able to physically inspect the car, and some clients might be skeptical about the effectiveness of remote consultations.

Understanding gig economy statistics, facts, & trends can help you identify opportunities and tailor your services to meet the needs of a changing market.

To find customers, you can promote your services through online marketplaces, social media, and your own website using email marketing techniques.

Creating YouTube videos that provide valuable tips and tutorials can attract potential clients, as does partnering with mechanic shops and auto dealerships.

You can charge a flat rate per consultation or offer subscription-based services for ongoing support, with average earnings between $50 and $100 per consultation.

With regular clients, this could translate to monthly earnings of $1,000 to $4,000, providing a steady stream of extra money.

3. Become An Auto Broker For Auto Dealerships

Working as an auto broker for auto dealerships is a lucrative side hustle for auto mechanics with a keen eye for deals and extensive vehicle knowledge.

An auto broker assists buyers in finding the right car for their needs and budget, negotiates deals, and ensures the best value for money.

To make money as an auto broker, you need to be well-versed in the automotive market and have strong negotiation skills.

The pros of this side hustle include the ability to earn money on each sale, which can add up to significant extra passive income.

It also allows for a flexible schedule, as you can work on finding and brokering deals in your spare time.

However, the job requires excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with both buyers and sellers as the market is very competitive.

Keeping an eye on the best gig economy jobs can provide insights into potential growth areas within the automotive sector.

Brokers earn a commission of 1-5% of the car's price, and with high demand for reliable assistance, you could earn $500 to $5,000 per transaction.

This means that if you broker just a few sales per month, you could potentially make between $2,000 and $10,000, or more, in extra income.

2. Car Restoration Business

Starting a car restoration business can be a rewarding side hustle for auto mechanics who are passionate about classic and vintage vehicles.

This job involves restoring old cars to their former glory, often requiring extensive knowledge of older automotive systems and meticulous attention to detail.

To make money in the car restoration business, you need to specialize in high-quality restorations that justify charging premium prices.

With this side hustle, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of transforming a dilapidated car into a beautiful vehicle and the potential for high-profit margins.

This business also allows you to work on a project-by-project basis, which can be done mostly in your spare time.

Car restoration can be time-consuming, requires a significant investment in tools, supplies, and spare parts, and demands a deep knowledge of various models.

To attract customers, you can present your work on a social media account or a dedicated YouTube channel where you document your restoration projects.

If your YouTube channel proves popular, you can join their advertising network and earn revenue based on the number of views you receive.

You need to acquire 1,000 subscribers on your channel and amass 4,00 hours of watch time – which sounds like a lot but isn’t.

Once you reach these milestones, you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program and, once approved, earn between $5 and $35 per thousand views.

Attending car shows and networking with classic car enthusiasts can also help you find clients, while referrals from satisfied customers are crucial.

Understanding gig economy trends can help you stay competitive and help you to identify new opportunities within the niche market.

Depending on the project, you could charge anywhere from a few thousand dollars for minor restorations to tens of thousands for complete overhauls.

On average, you might earn between $2,000 and $10,000 per project, with potential monthly earnings reaching $5,000 to $20,000 and more.

1. Car Repair Consulting

Car repair consulting is an excellent side hustle for seasoned auto mechanics who want to leverage their expertise without getting their hands dirty.

This job involves providing expert advice and opinions on car repairs, diagnostics, and maintenance schedules to auto owners or businesses.

As a consultant, you can help troubleshoot issues, recommend cost-effective solutions, and guide clients on maintaining their vehicles for longevity and performance.

To make money as a car repair consultant, you need to position yourself as a knowledgeable expert in the field or offer an online course.

This involves keeping up-to-date with the latest automotive technologies and repair techniques and building your personal brand locally and online.

You can set your own rates and schedule, making it a perfect fit for those looking to earn extra income in their spare time.

However, since you are not physically fixing the cars, some clients might not see the value in your advice alone, which means building credibility is essential.

Networking with local repair shops and car dealerships can provide referral opportunities and offering free initial consultations builds trust.

If you are interested in understanding the gig economy pros and cons, consult one of just a few examples of this sector's flexibility and income potential.

On average, hourly rates can range from $50 to $150, depending on your experience and the complexity of the consultation.

Where Is the Best Place to Find Side Hustles As Mechanics?

The best place to find side hustles as mechanics is through a combination of online marketplaces, social media platforms, and local networking.

The biggest gig economy companies like Upwork and Fiverr offer a variety of gigs where mechanics can offer their expertise remotely, such as through virtual consultations.

Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can help promote services and connect with potential clients through targeted advertising and community groups. Attending local car shows and joining automotive forums can also provide valuable connections and insights into niche markets.

Summary

We have explored the ten most lucrative side hustle opportunities for mechanics, including car repair consulting, car restoration, and remote diagnostics.

It covers strategic approaches like leveraging social media, partnering with local repair shops, and utilizing online marketplaces to build a brand.

By pursuing these side jobs, mechanics can significantly boost their financial well-being and career satisfaction using their unique skills and expertise.