In the economy today, many people are seeking ways to supplement their primary income. If you feel like you would have a passion for automotive detailing and a knack for making vehicles shine, then this is the blog for you. The detailing industry offers plenty of easy tricks and opportunities that people will pay good money for. All you need to do is learn these skills and leverage them against the opportunity. In this blog, we will explore in-depth 10 different detailing side hustles that can help you turn your extra time and passion into a more than formidable profit.
10 Side Hustles for Car Detailing
1. Headlight Restoration [$50-$200]
Many people have seen dull and cloudy headlights on a vehicle. But did you know they are easy to fix? Offering headlight restoration services for around $50-$200 to improve visibility and enhance the overall appearance of headlights. Simply tape off the headlights and sand with 600 grit, 1500 grit, and then 3000 grit. Then apply a light oxidized polish to the headlight and then spray a headlight restoration spray and boom, you just learned how to restore a headlight.
2. Trim Restoration [$50-$200]
Trim Restoration s a process that focuses on restoring the plastic, rubber, or vinyl trim on a vehicle to its original appearance. Over time, these trim pieces can become faded, discolored, or oxidized due to exposure to the sun, weather, and environmental contaminants. Trim restoration is something you can charge $50-$200 for making surfaces look new again. All you need to do is clean the trip completely and let it dry. Use a trim dye to apply to vinyl and plastics (NOT in direct sunlight or extreme heat). Wipe off excess.
3. Engine Bay Cleaning [$20-$50]
Engine bay cleaning is the process of thoroughly cleaning and detailing the engine compartment of a vehicle. This involves removing dirt, grime, grease, and other contaminants from the engine and surrounding components, and then protecting the cleaned surfaces to prevent future buildup. An easy $20-$50 dollars for 15-30 mins of work! Simply spray the compartment with water (Being mindful of the electrical components), spray with degreaser, scrub with a brush then spray off with water. Wipe down with a microfiber and then apply a water-based dressing and you have a clean engine and a little extra cash!
4. Rock Chip Paint Repair [$150-$250]
Rock chip paint repair is a specific service that focuses on fixing small paint chips caused by rocks or debris hitting the vehicle's exterior, usually on the front bumper, hood, or fenders. You can find quick squirt and squeegee kits from places like Dr. Colorchip that can directly match the paint color to any vehicle and offer a great margin for a repair! All directions are included in those kits making it easy for you to repair.
5. Tar, Gum, Paint, Marker Remover, Etc. [$20-$250]
Tar, gum, and paint removal are essential for keeping a vehicle's exterior looking next-to-new. As long as you have the proper tools you can remove these items for anywhere from $20 to 250$ depending on the severity of the contaminate. Just make sure to use proper tar remover, gum remover, etc. when working on these jobs.
6. Wheel Cleaning - Iron Removal [$20-$100]
Wheel cleaning iron removal is specifically in terms of that 1-2 brown looking rims that a car can have from excessive iron buildup. Iron removal is a specialized process in car care aimed at thoroughly cleaning wheels by removing the iron particles that can come from brake dust, rail dust, etc. Cleaning these wheels just requires water and iron remover and a good scrub brush. Wet the wheel, spray on the iron remover and scrub if necessary. The iron will turn purple and then wash away!
7. Ceramic Coatings [$500+]
Ceramic coating application is one of the longer hustles to do on this list; however, it pays a pretty penny. The reason it takes so long is the preparation process to be able to install the coating. you need to understand paint decontamination and paint correction as those are the primary steps in preparing to apply a coating. Once the paint looks flawless applying the coating is easy if you have a an excellent brand at the ready.
8. PPF & Vinyl Wrapping [$2000+]
Similar to ceramic coating the PPF (Paint Protection Film) and vinyl layering on a cars paint requires a long yet different setup. You may need to remove hardware such as door handles and coverings. But once the paint is decontaminated you just layer the films over the vehicle surface and squeegee on. This is a process to learn as well with proper install and cutting being very necessary in the longevity of the film. However, a training class away from making $2000 dollars or more per install makes this the best bang for your buck if you are looking at this side hustle.
9. Window Tinting Services [$300+]
Window tint application involves adding a thin, often colored film to the windows of vehicles or buildings to reduce glare, UV exposure, and heat, or to improve privacy. To apply window tint, start by thoroughly cleaning the window to remove any dirt. Cut the tint film to fit the window dimensions, allowing a bit of extra film for trimming. Peel off the backing and position the film on the wet window surface, adjusting as needed. Use a squeegee to smooth out bubbles and ensure even adhesion, then trim any excess film. Make sure to use high-quality films when you apply tint.
10. Mobile Detailing Services:
Mobile detailing services is almost the complete business in one. If your side hustle takes up a weekend then offering mobile detailing services is a convenient way to bring your hustle to a customer's driveway. Provide comprehensive cleaning, polishing, and protection treatments, catering to busy individuals who appreciate the convenience of not having to visit a brick-and-mortar location.
Final Tips for Success
Starting a detailing side hustle requires careful planning and execution. Consider the following tips to make your venture successful:
- Research your target market and competition to identify gaps in services they offer versus what you can offer.
- Understand the startup cost for the hustle you want to pursue. For example, ceramic coating and PPF startup costs will be far closer to $1000 over Headlight Restoration costs.
- Build an online presence through social media, a professional website, and online listings.
- Invest in high-quality tools, equipment, and products to ensure top-notch results, and less chance of customer complaints.
- Deliver great customer service to build a loyal client base and receive positive referrals.
