If you’re lucky enough to own a car, it’s not just a mode of transport. Your vehicle can also help you make extra income or even serve as the foundation of a full-time money-making endeavour. The method you choose depends on how often you need to use your car and what you’re willing to do with it.

Here are some ideas to help you earn extra income with your car.

Offer a Ridesharing Service

One of the easiest ways to make money with your car is by offering a ridesharing service. Apps like Uber and Bolt are popular options in the UK, making it easy to pick up passengers during your free time. For a less formal setup, consider carpooling with colleagues and sharing the cost of the commute.

Living in a rural or remote area with limited public transport can make this a particularly attractive option. Start small and see how it works for you before making a full commitment.

Become a Delivery Service

The rise of online shopping and takeaway food means there’s always demand for delivery drivers. Use apps like Deliveroo, Just Eat, or Uber Eats to deliver meals. For parcel delivery, consider Amazon Flex or Hermes (now Evri), where you can set your schedule and work in your local area.

A car can be especially handy for deliveries in rural locations where bikes or scooters aren’t practical. Groceries are also a growing market with apps like Ocado Zoom or third-party services such as Stuart offering opportunities to deliver food and household items.

Rent Out Your Car

If you don’t need your car every day, renting it out through apps like Turo or Hiyacar could earn you passive income. While this option requires careful vetting and an understanding of the risks, it can be a great way to make money when your vehicle would otherwise sit unused. You need to be comfortable with the risk involved and that your car may become damaged in one way or another, so use a suitable insurance for this purpose.  Many of the apps will offer their wn protective insurance for damages.

Sell Your Car or Accessories

Selling your car outright is a more drastic option, but it can yield significant income if your vehicle is in good condition adn you don't need it, or can downgrade. Use platforms like Auto Trader or We Buy Any Car to get competitive offers.

Alternatively, consider selling non-essential car accessories, such as a high-end stereo system or even a personalised number plate. Check what they’re worth online to find out how much is my number plate worth if you have a custom numberplate that is worth selling separately to the car,  to ensure you get a fair price.

Look into Mobile Billboards

Some companies will pay you to advertise on your car. Apps like Car Quids connect drivers with advertisers who wrap vehicles in branding. You’ll need to drive regularly to make this option worthwhile, as advertisers typically want their ads seen by as many people as possible to maximise the profits.

Become a Parcel Delivery Service

Delivering parcels can be particularly lucrative during peak times like Christmas. This could be with major couriers like DPD, Royal Mail, or independent services such as Yodel Direct. If you prefer flexible hours, consider gig-economy apps like Amazon Flex.

Rent Out Your Driveway

If you live in a city or near popular locations, you could rent out your driveway using apps like YourParkingSpace or JustPark. Commuters or event-goers could use your space while you’re out, providing regular income with minimal effort.

Help Move Large Objects

If you own a larger vehicle like a van or SUV, you could help people move bigger objects like large pieces of furniture or other bulky items. Websites like TaskRabbit or Shiply connect drivers with people needing this service. Marketing yourself well is key to gaining repeat customers.

Final thoughts...

Your car can be a valuable asset for generating income. From passive options like renting out your car or driveway to more hands-on tasks like delivery or ridesharing, the possibilities are diverse. Whether you’re after a side hustle or a full-time career, your car can help you get there.

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These articles provide practical tips and strategies to help you explore various income opportunities.