Kansas City is a fantastic place for car enthusiasts looking to turn their passion into profit. With a rich automotive culture, frequent car shows, and motorsports events at venues like Kansas Speedway, there are plenty of opportunities to make extra cash while enjoying the world of cars. Whether you’re into teaching driving skills, working with classic cars, or exploring online car-related income streams, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a side hustle that offers flexibility and caters to your automotive interests, here are some of the best ways to earn money in and around Kansas City.
1. Work at Kansas City Car Shows & Events
Kansas City hosts several car-related events throughout the year, including The Kansas City Auto Show and Goodguys Heartland Nationals. Many of these events need part-time staff for:
- Parking and directing traffic
- Selling tickets or merchandise
- Helping vendors set up displays
Where to Find Work:
- Kansas City Auto Show – A premier event showcasing the latest cars and innovations.
- Goodguys Car Show – A major event featuring classic cars and custom builds.

2. Teach Manual Driving with Manual Driving Academy
Teaching people how to drive stick shift is a rewarding and flexible gig, especially with Kansas City’s growing community of car enthusiasts. Manual Driving Academy offers an excellent opportunity for experienced manual drivers to make money by teaching others this valuable skill.
Why It’s a Great Side Hustle:
- Set your own schedule and work on your terms.
- Earn competitive pay while helping others gain confidence behind the wheel.
- Perfect for enthusiasts who own a manual transmission vehicle.
Interested? Apply here: Become an Instructor
3. Rent Out Your Car on Turo
If you have an extra vehicle—especially a unique or manual transmission car—you can list it on Turo and earn passive income. Tourists and locals alike often look for fun cars to rent for the weekend, and Kansas City’s vibrant car culture makes it a great market for car rentals.
Best Vehicles for Turo Rentals:
- Classic cars for special occasions
- Manual transmission cars for enthusiasts
- Fuel-efficient cars for budget-conscious renters
Where to Start: Turo lets you list your car for free and set your own pricing.
4. Buy and Flip Car Parts
Kansas City is home to a thriving market for used and aftermarket car parts. You can find deals on parts at swap meets, salvage yards, or online marketplaces, then resell them for a profit.
Where to Find Car Parts:
- Pull-A-Part Kansas City – 6825 E Front St, Kansas City, MO 64120 (Website)
- Facebook Marketplace – Great for local deals on used parts.
- eBay Motors – Ideal for reaching a wider audience for rare parts.
5. Become a Private Driver for Special Events
Many people in Kansas City look for private drivers for weddings, proms, or corporate events. If you own a luxury vehicle or a stylish classic car, you can offer chauffeuring services.
How to Get Started:
- Advertise on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
- Network with local event planners and wedding venues.
- Register on platforms like LUXnow for high-end chauffeur gigs.
6. Start a YouTube or TikTok Channel for Car Content
If you enjoy talking about cars, reviewing modifications, or sharing driving tips, consider starting a YouTube or TikTok channel. Kansas City has a passionate community of car enthusiasts who love engaging content.
Content Ideas:
- Reviews of local car events and meetups
- Tutorials on car maintenance and modifications
- Car spotting around Kansas City
Bonus Tip: Monetize your channel through ad revenue, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
7. Offer Mobile Car Detailing Services
With Kansas City’s fluctuating weather, many car owners want regular detailing services to keep their vehicles looking pristine. Mobile car detailing is a high-demand side hustle with good earning potential.
How to Start:
- Invest in quality cleaning supplies and tools.
- Advertise on Nextdoor, Craigslist, and Facebook Groups.
- Offer package deals for repeat customers.
Conclusion: Find the Perfect Car-Related Side Hustle in Kansas City
Kansas City is an ideal place to turn your love for cars into extra income. Whether you’re teaching manual driving with Manual Driving Academy, flipping car parts, or creating online automotive content, there’s no shortage of opportunities.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re an experienced manual driver looking for a flexible and rewarding gig, Manual Driving Academy is a great choice. Apply today: Become an Instructor