20 Business Ideas For Gearheads [2024]
If you've got motor oil running through your veins and a constant drive for the automotive world, 2024 has some exciting business opportunities for you. There's no need to stick to traditional paths when you could turn your passion into a thriving enterprise.
From starting your own custom shop to launching an online store for specialty parts, the possibilities are vast. You could even dive into the booming world of electric vehicle conversions or offer mobile mechanic services tailored for the modern car enthusiast.
Exploring these ventures could combine your love for cars with the chance to be your own boss. In this article, we'll outline several business ideas that not only align with your automotive passion but also have the potential for financial success.
For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other gearhead businesses to help you see what it takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a YouTube channel ($72.1K/month)
Starting a YouTube channel is a fantastic way for gearheads to share their passion for all things automotive while potentially turning their hobby into a lucrative income stream. By creating compelling videos on topics such as car reviews, DIY tutorials, and behind-the-scenes looks at automotive events, you could quickly build a dedicated audience. Monetization opportunities arise from ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales, making this a versatile and scalable business venture.
Running a successful YouTube channel involves a commitment to producing high-quality, consistent content. You'll need to plan, film, and edit your videos regularly, as well as engage with your audience to build a community. While the initial effort is significant, the rewards can be substantial, both financially and personally.
Why starting a YouTube channel?
- You could showcase your expertise and passion, establishing yourself as an authority in the automotive community.
- A YouTube channel provides multiple income streams, from ad revenue and sponsorships to selling branded merchandise.
- The flexibility and creativity of the platform allow you to share your unique voice and connect with like-minded enthusiasts.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
This case study follows the journey of a young entrepreneur from Nigeria who started a profitable blog generating a monthly revenue of $1,500+ through sales of advertising space, sponsored posts, and information products, and shares his strategies for success including a Twitter growth challenge and guest post pitches.
2. Start a niche website ($107K/month)
As a gearhead, you could leverage your extensive knowledge and passion for a specific aspect of the automotive world by creating a niche website. Whether it's performance tuning, classic car restoration, or reviews of the latest car gadgets, a focused online business allows you to share your expertise and connect with a dedicated audience. By providing targeted content, you can attract a loyal following and explore different monetization options like affiliate marketing, ad placements, or selling digital products.
Why start a niche website? - You get to combine your passion with business. Sharing your automotive expertise can build a devoted audience and generate income. - You can create a passive income stream. Once established, your website can bring in consistent revenue with minimal ongoing effort. - It offers creative freedom. You have complete control over your content, allowing you to shape your site to reflect your unique interests and voice.
For more inspiration on niche websites, check out some success stories on Starter Story's niche website success stories.
How much you can make: $400 — $250,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
DPW (Digital Procurement World) is a fast-growing conference and community in procurement that has more than tripled in revenue since launching in 2019, capping out the year at €1.8 million, with 95% of their growth coming from inbound traffic leveraging LinkedIn and applying social selling techniques.
3. Start a dropshipping business ($414K/month)
Starting a dropshipping business could be an excellent way for a gearhead to supplement their income, as it allows you to leverage your automotive knowledge to select and market niche products without the need for significant upfront investment. By choosing high-demand parts and accessories and partnering with reliable suppliers, you could cater to fellow gearheads looking for specialized items. Dropshipping also gives you the freedom to run your business from anywhere, with minimal overhead and complete control over marketing and customer service.
For more insights, check out these success stories on Starter Story about dropshipping businesses.
Why consider dropshipping as a gearhead?
- You could focus on selling automotive niche products that you are passionate about.
- Minimal upfront costs allow you to start the business without significant financial risk.
- You have the ability to scale your operations without the hassle of managing inventory.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Entrepreneur Kamil Sattar has developed multiple six-figure drop shipping businesses, and his company, e-commerce mentoring, specializes in helping others create their own successful companies, with favorite platforms including using Shopify and apps such as Loox reviews and SMSBump.
4. Start an online course sales business ($85K/month)
If you’re a gearhead with extensive knowledge about cars, motorcycles, or any type of machinery, starting an online course sales business could be an excellent way to supplement your income or even transform it into a full-time venture. By leveraging your expertise, you can create courses that teach others about maintenance, repairs, customization, or even automotive theory. The e-learning market is booming, and there’s a growing demand for specialized courses. For more tips and insights, check out these online course sales business success stories.
Why start an online course sales business?
- You could turn your passion into profit by sharing your deep knowledge and skills.
- The e-learning market is projected to be worth over $645 billion, presenting lucrative opportunities.
- Once created, your courses can generate passive income for years as new learners enroll.
How much you can make: $100 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
A multipreneur shares how she built a successful print on demand side hustle, generating $120,000 per year through multiple brands spread over various platforms.
5. Start an ecommerce reselling business ($83.3K/month)
Starting an ecommerce reselling business could be an ideal venture for gearheads looking to turn their passion into profit. An ecommerce reselling business allows you to leverage your extensive knowledge of automotive parts and tools, acquiring and reselling them at a markup without incurring significant production costs. Moreover, you don't need a website right away, making it easier to launch your business via social media and expand as you gain traction.
Why consider starting an ecommerce reselling business?
- You could utilize your deep understanding of automotive products to source high-demand items at competitive prices.
- Your firsthand experience with different tools and parts enables you to provide valuable insights and top recommendations to customers, building trust and loyalty.
- Starting without a website lowers initial costs, allowing a flexible entry point and room to grow as your business expands.
For more insights and ideas on starting an ecommerce reselling business, explore this page on Starter Story here.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $150,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,999 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
Empyre Off-Road, an e-commerce business founded by Greg Shuey which sells aftermarket parts for Toyota Tacomas, Tundras, and 4Runners, generated approximately $100,000 a month in revenue and was able to expand its product offering, focusing on content marketing, email marketing campaigns, and organic social media to attract and retain customers.
6. Start a subscription box business ($97.9K/month)
Starting a subscription box business could be an excellent venture for a gearhead looking to turn their passion into profits. By curating monthly boxes filled with niche automotive parts, tools, or gear, you could appeal to other enthusiasts who share your love for all things mechanical. This type of business allows you to leverage your expertise and knowledge to offer valuable and exclusive products, driving customer loyalty and recurring revenue.
Why start a subscription box business?
- You could consistently engage with fellow gearheads by delivering curated automotive products each month.
- This business model offers a recurring revenue stream, giving you predictable and steady income.
- Your deep understanding of the niche market can help you differentiate your offerings and provide exclusive items that appeal to enthusiasts.
For more detailed success stories about subscription box businesses, you can visit Starter Story.
How much you can make: $400 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $210 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Vowed Box Co. is a line of curated, quirky gift boxes with non-traditional brides in mind, offering four different products that have helped the business become profitable most months since its launch in 2018, with a monthly income of roughly $600.
7. Start an affiliate marketing business ($77.5K/month)
If you are a gearhead looking for a way to supplement your income, starting an affiliate marketing business could be an exciting and lucrative opportunity. By promoting automotive products and services that you are passionate about, you could earn commissions on each sale. This setup is ideal for gearheads since it allows you to leverage your knowledge and passion for cars, parts, and accessories without holding any inventory.
Why start an affiliate marketing business?
- You could monetize your automotive knowledge and passion, turning your hobby into a profitable side hustle.
- It requires low overhead and minimal startup costs, making it accessible for anyone.
- You have the flexibility to work from anywhere and set your own schedule.
For more detailed insights, check out these affiliate marketing business success stories.
How much you can make: $500 — $773,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study explores how Spencer Mecham founded Buildapreneur, an affiliate marketing business, and has made over half a million dollars in profit with no employees, relying solely on content marketing through platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
8. Start a niche blog ($31.5K/month)
Starting a niche blog can be a fantastic way for gearheads to turn their passion into profit. By focusing on a specific area within the automotive world—such as classic car restoration, performance tuning, or motorcycle customization—you could share your expertise, stories, and insights with a dedicated audience. This not only supplements your income but also builds your authority in a community of like-minded enthusiasts.
Why starting a niche blog?
- You could monetize your knowledge through affiliate links, sponsored content, and ads, turning your passion into a revenue stream.
- A blog allows you to engage with a community of fellow gearheads, sharing your tips, projects, and reviews.
- Consistently creating valuable content could establish you as an expert, opening opportunities for collaborations and speaking engagements.
For more on how to get started, check out Starter Story's blog startup tips.
How much you can make: $100 — $650,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $650 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Starter Story grew to 1.4 million monthly visitors and millions in annual revenue by sharing the stories of entrepreneurs. Pat breaks down the early days and how he grew the business into something that changed his life.
9. Start a stock investing business ($30.3K/month)
Starting a stock investing business can be a smart side hustle for gearheads, blending the high-octane thrill of automotive pursuits with the strategic challenge of financial markets. This venture involves buying and selling stocks to generate profit, requiring sharp analytical skills and quick decision-making—traits that any car enthusiast can appreciate. You could find satisfaction in navigating market trends and making informed financial moves, much like tuning a high-performance engine.
For more detailed tips and success stories, check out Starter Story's tips on starting a stock investing business.
Why consider starting a stock investing business?
- You could leverage your analytical mindset honed from working on cars to analyze market trends and make strategic investments.
- It offers the excitement of making high-stakes decisions without the grease and grime—if you enjoy precision in tuning, you'll appreciate precision in trading.
- Stock investing could provide a steady income stream, allowing you to fund your automotive hobbies or even turn your passion for cars into a full-time business.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $160,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Ticker Nerd is a monthly subscription service for investors that surfaces and analyzes trending stocks before the hype train arrives, and now has $4.5k in monthly recurring revenue from its newsletter without spending a single dollar on advertising, having validated the business via subreddits and organic Product Hunt launch strategy.
10. Start an email marketing tool ($992K/month)
Starting an email marketing tool as a gearhead could be a fantastic opportunity to merge your passion for all things mechanical with your entrepreneurial ambitions. With the global email marketing tool market expected to reach $2.53B by 2028, you could tap into this lucrative industry by creating a specialized tool tailored for automotive businesses, car clubs, or gearhead communities. Email marketing is effective for generating leads, increasing sales, and enhancing customer relationships, all while leveraging your existing network and expertise in the automotive world.
Having your own email marketing tool could not only supplement your income but also open doors to endless possibilities for collaboration with other businesses and startups. If you want to dive into more details on how you could make it happen, check out this Starter Story link for profitability ideas and success stories.
Why create an email marketing tool?
- You could use your expertise to tailor the tool for niche markets like automotive businesses, making it stand out.
- The initial investment might be low, especially if you leverage existing platforms and tools, making it a cost-effective business idea.
- The potential market growth and the high demand for such tools mean there is plenty of room for innovation and profit.
How much you can make: $120 — $20,833,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
H-supertools founder Hasan developed a set of free SEO and digital marketing tools generating $2k per month in profit using Google Adsense, affiliate marketing, selling ad spaces, and email, plans to launch a membership option, and has attained over 80k registered users and 300k monthly visits in less than two years.
11. Start a social media automation business ($139K/month)
Imagine managing multiple social media accounts effortlessly while driving engagement and growth. That’s the essence of a social media automation business. This business idea involves creating tools and services to schedule posts, automate interactions, and analyze data across various platforms for clients ranging from small businesses to influencers. With a knack for technology and marketing, gearheads could find this endeavor both lucrative and fulfilling, as the demand for automated social media solutions continues to rise. For more insights on profitability, take a look at Starter Story's insights on the social media automation business's profitability.
Why consider a social media automation business?
- Gearheads with technical skills can leverage their expertise to develop innovative automation tools.
- Automating social engagements frees up time for both you and your clients, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
- Staying on top of social media trends keeps the work dynamic and engaging, perfect for those who love a fast-paced environment.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $400,000/month
How long does it take to build: 50 days (?)
MeetEdgar, a bootstrapped social media automation tool founded in 2014 by Laura Roeder, has grown to $4 million in annual recurring revenue and more than 5,000 customers, with a team size of two dozen, achieved through content marketing, social media marketing, and organic search.
12. Start an ai based business solution ($55.8K/month)
Starting an AI-based business solution could be a powerful move for gearheads looking to innovate and capitalize on the growing demand for artificial intelligence technology. As a gearhead, you already have a knack for understanding complex systems and optimizing mechanical performance. Leveraging AI can enhance this expertise by applying it to business processes, making operations more efficient and data-driven. Plus, with various user-friendly platforms available, you don't need a tech background to get started.
Why start an AI-based business solution?
- It’s a growing market. Businesses are increasingly adopting AI for its ability to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.
- AI tools can automate repetitive tasks. This allows you to focus on higher-impact areas such as strategy and innovation.
- You can provide valuable insights. AI can analyze and interpret large data sets, offering actionable intelligence to help businesses make informed decisions.
For more insights, visit our starter story.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $120,000/month
How long does it take to build: 125 days (?)
Mikkelsen Twins grew an online education company from scratch with over 800 students, making over 6-figures in profit every month thanks to their successful program, Audiobook Income Academy 2.0.
13. Develop an online survey tool ($304K/month)
Starting an online survey tool could be a lucrative venture for a gearhead looking to diversify their income streams or launch a side business. Given your technical acumen and passion for precision, creating a platform to help businesses gather customer feedback aligns well with your skill set. Tools like Typeform have seen massive growth, indicating a strong market demand, with the platform crossing $70 million in annual recurring revenue in 2021 after tripling its revenue over three years.
As a gearhead, you'll appreciate the intricacies of building sophisticated yet user-friendly survey tools that can offer a variety of features like survey building, data collection, and detailed reporting. This venture could leverage your expertise in creating effective and efficient systems, much like the fine-tuned engines you love to work on.
Why building an online survey tool?
- You could capitalize on a growing market, tapping into the increasing need for data collection tools.
- Your technical skills can develop innovative solutions that set your tool apart from competitors.
- This business can be run almost entirely online, offering the flexibility to balance it with other projects or commitments.
How much you can make: $40 — $1,600,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
GreenRope, a self-funded CRM and marketing automation platform with over 1,000 customers in 20 countries, was built organically and focused on creating a positive, customer-centric culture without outside investment, with an all-in-one interface solving challenges in managing sales, marketing, customer service, and operations.
14. Start a health and wellness app ($108K/month)
As a gearhead with a passion for technology and innovation, starting a health and wellness app could be a unique and lucrative venture. The app could integrate the precision and data-driven mindset of gear enthusiasts with the growing need for personalized fitness routines, nutrition plans, and mental well-being exercises, creating a comprehensive platform for health-conscious users. This project not only offers the opportunity to positively impact lives but also allows you to delve into an industry that's continuously expanding.
Building such an app requires thorough market research, collaboration with health experts, and a robust marketing strategy, which aligns perfectly with an entrepreneurial spirit. If you’re passionate about merging technology with health and wellness, this business could be a perfect fit. For more insights on starting a health and wellness app, check out some inspiring success stories on Starter Story.
Why starting a health and wellness app?
- You could leverage your tech-savvy skills to create an app that addresses real-world health challenges.
- The health and wellness industry is booming, offering endless opportunities for innovation and growth.
- With the right app, you could make a meaningful impact on people's lives, guiding them towards healthier lifestyles.
How much you can make: $600 — $300,000/month
How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)
Founder and CEO of SelfDecode, Joe Cohen, explains how his company helps people discover personalized diet, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations based on DNA and lab tests; generating about $2.7 million in revenue over the past year and raising $8 million in a crowdfunding campaign, SelfDecode provides personalized health recommendations prioritized on unique genetic variants, marking the future of healthcare.
15. Start a real estate investment firm ($398K/month)
If you're a gearhead with an entrepreneurial mindset, starting a real estate investment firm could be a lucrative way to diversify your income. This business involves acquiring, managing, and selling properties to generate profits, leveraging your analytical and negotiation skills. As a gearhead, your problem-solving mindset and strategic planning expertise can be huge assets in identifying valuable properties and optimizing their value through renovations or smart market moves.
Why consider starting a real estate investment firm?
- You'll have the chance to turn your knack for spotting potential into a profitable venture, much like identifying a hidden gem of a car.
- The real estate market offers substantial profit potential, similar to flipping classic cars for a higher resale value.
- You could diversify your portfolio, creating another revenue stream to complement your primary passion.
For more insights and success stories, explore how others have transformed their passion into a thriving business at Starter Story.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 210 days (?)
Equity Residences is a luxury real estate investment fund that has raised $40 million from over 200 investors, offering them access to a portfolio of luxury vacation homes for investment and personal use, with a minimum investment of $161,500 and plans to acquire a further twenty residences ranging from $1.5M to $4M.
16. Become a corporate photographer ($23.4K/month)
Starting a corporate photography business makes sense for a gearhead because it allows you to channel your passion for high-quality visuals and technology into a professional service. With the proper equipment and a keen eye for detail, you could capture dynamic, impactful images that help businesses build their brand and communicate their message effectively. Plus, working with various companies offers the opportunity to network and collaborate with other professionals, potentially leading to more exciting projects and ventures down the road. Explore what it takes to get started in corporate photography today.
Why consider becoming a corporate photographer?
- You could leverage your technical skills and passion for gadgets into a rewarding business.
- Every project offers a chance to explore creative solutions and meet new industry professionals.
- A growing portfolio of satisfied clients can lead to higher earnings and stability.
How much you can make: $8,300 — $50,001/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
This case study follows the journey of an Indian first-generation entrepreneur who built Studio 31, a profitable and award-winning wedding photography and film company capturing over 350 weddings annually, with a unique focus on customer experience and organic marketing, serving more than 90% NRI clients and generating an annual revenue of about a million dollars.
17. Create a mobile app ($70.3K/month)
As a gearhead, creating a mobile app could offer a unique opportunity to turn your automotive passion into a profitable business. Whether it's an app that helps fellow enthusiasts find the best car parts, a tool for tuning performance specs, or a platform for automotive social networking, the possibilities are vast. With the prevalence of smartphones, your app could reach a global audience, allowing you to share your expertise and innovative solutions with millions of users.
Developing a mobile app requires some technical know-how or the ability to collaborate with a skilled developer. Your tasks will focus on designing user-friendly interfaces, ensuring functionality, and effectively marketing your app to attract downloads. With dedication and a strong vision, your app could generate significant income and even become your primary business.
Why create a mobile app?
- You'll reach a global audience, sharing your automotive solutions with millions of enthusiasts.
- You'll have the opportunity to turn your passion into a sustainable income stream.
- You'll stay ahead in the digital age, capitalizing on the widespread use of smartphones and mobile technology.
For more insights and success stories from mobile app entrepreneurs, visit this link: Mobile App Success Stories.
How much you can make: $1 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
BACH, an app that plans and books bachelorette parties, has grown from $0 to >$1M net revenue run rate in less than 6 months, gained over 100,000 users in their first 60 days, and has over 40,000 parties using the app this month.
18. Print on demand business ($411K/month)
For gearheads looking to supplement their income or start a side business, a print-on-demand venture offers an exciting opportunity. This business model allows you to sell customized products like apparel, home goods, and accessories without the need for upfront inventory costs. By focusing on designing trendy and unique automotive-themed products, you could tap into the vast community of fellow car enthusiasts while leveraging platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy to reach a global audience.
Explore more about the profitability of a print-on-demand business here.
Why start a print-on-demand business?
- You could monetize your passion for cars by creating and selling custom automotive-themed merchandise.
- With minimal startup costs, this is an accessible way to dip your toes into entrepreneurship.
- Running operations from home allows you to turn your creative ideas into a scalable business at your own pace.
How much you can make: $200 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Founder Roy Kirchner shares how he started an eCommerce business specializing in 3D printing with an initial investment of $65,000, which now averages monthly gross sales of $330,000 and has partnered with international manufacturers and local businesses while offering technical support and education.
19. Develop a lead generation tool ($108K/month)
For gearheads who are looking to transform their automotive passion into a business opportunity, developing a lead generation tool could be an excellent option. Whether you're mechanically inclined or love tinkering with new tech, creating a software application that identifies and captures potential customer leads for businesses could open a new revenue stream. This tool can integrate with websites, social media channels, and other digital touchpoints, making it easier for businesses to collect valuable data such as email addresses, phone numbers, and customer interests, allowing them to focus more on converting leads into customers.
The demand for efficient lead generation is high, and businesses of all sizes are eager to streamline their marketing efforts. If you’re tech-savvy and have an eye for marketing, this venture could be both profitable and fulfilling. You could check out more on how to get started with lead generation tools here.
Why developing a lead generation tool?
- A high demand exists as businesses aim to improve their marketing efficiency and grow their customer base.
- It allows you to automate the client-finding process, giving companies the freedom to concentrate on converting leads into sales.
- Developing this tool lets you combine your technical skills with marketing, appealing to both your analytical and creative sides.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $600 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Dux-Soup is a LinkedIn automation tool that helps business owners and sales & marketing professionals generate more leads, increase efficiency, and save time; with over 70,000 users and revenue of nearly $5 million, it offers automated top-of-the-funnel LinkedIn outreach activities, targeted LinkedIn campaigns and multi-touch & personalized LinkedIn drip campaigns for lead generation.
20. Start a wordpress plugin business ($33.4K/month)
Starting a WordPress plugin business makes sense as a gearhead because it combines your problem-solving skills with your technical expertise. WP plugins are essential for optimizing websites, and as a gearhead, you’re already adept at finding solutions to complex problems. By developing and selling plugins that address specific needs, you could turn your tech know-how into a profitable side business or even a full-time venture. Check out some success stories for inspiration at Starter Story.
Why start a WordPress plugin business?
- You could create innovative solutions. Your technical acumen allows you to develop plugins that solve niche problems.
- The WP market is vast and growing. There's a constant demand for new plugins to enhance website functionality.
- Flexible revenue streams. You could sell on platforms like CodeCanyon or through your own website, maximizing your earning potential.
How much you can make: $120 — $120,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Wheely Sales CEO Josh created a lucky wheel popup that has grown revenue from $0 to $600/month in just 4 months since getting started and has attracted over 1.1 million users to his customers’ websites, all while proving that when it comes to creating a product, competition is validation.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
