When you kick off your automotive blog, there’s a lot to figure out: picking a domain name, setting up WordPress, and creating your first posts. But once you've got the basics down, it’s time to dive into monetizing your blog.
Trust me, this is going to be the most exciting part of your blogging journey!
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the automotive scene for a while, these monetization strategies will help you turn your passion into profit. Let’s explore each method in detail.
Why You Can Trust Our Automotive Blog Monetization Guide
Lasso is installed on over 8,000 websites, including many automotive blogs.
Our team has built multiple 7-figure blogs in a wide range of niches.
We have hands-on experience working with founders to grow and monetize their automotive blogs.
1. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is the best monetization method for automotive bloggers because it hits the sweet spot between time investment and earning potential.
Affiliate marketing is a form of advertising where a publisher (the site owner) links to a product in their content and earns a commission from the advertiser (the affiliate program) if readers click on that link and make a purchase.
TIP: With all monetization methods, the rule of thumb is the easier it is to accomplish, the less money you can make, and vice versa.
Also, since you can add links to your existing content, it’s the perfect method for beginners. You’ve already written content, so you’ve already done the hard part.
How to Start Affiliate Marketing for Automotive Bloggers
When diving into the automotive blogging niche, there’s a vast array of affiliate products you can recommend. Here’s a solid list to consider:
- Car Detailing Products
- GPS Navigation Systems
- Dash Cams
- Car Accessories (like seat covers and floor mats)
- Car Maintenance Tools
- Used Car Warranties
- Automotive Books and Guides
- Tyres and Upgrades
Here are some reasons to promote these products:
- Diverse Audience Appeal: Car enthusiasts love various products that enhance their ride, from gadgets to detailing kits.
- Recurring Needs: Many car owners regularly need maintenance tools or accessories, leading to repeat sales.
- High-Value Items: Some affiliate products, like GPS systems, can offer higher commissions compared to smaller items.
- Strong Brand Partnerships: There are numerous well-known brands available, which can boost your credibility when promoting.
Once you’ve identified which products will solve problems for your readers, you need to sign up for their affiliate programs.
You should start by joining the Amazon Associates affiliate program.
Most physical products in the automotive niche will be available on Amazon, and the conversion rate on Amazon is insane.
Yes, Amazon’s commission rates are rough, and they only offer a 24-hour cookie duration, but the conversion rate makes up for it. Plus, you’re nearly guaranteed to get accepted into their program.
For products that aren’t available on Amazon, just Google “[Product] affiliate program,” and you’ll find their program’s signup page.
To save you some time, here are a few of the best affiliate networks for automotive bloggers:
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Commission Rate: 50% Per Sale
Cookie Duration: 30 Days
Travelpayouts helps publishers earn on all types of travel services, including flight tickets, accommodation, cruises, tours, car rentals, insurance, and much more.
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Commission Rate: 1.6% Per Sale
Cookie Duration: 30 Days
AutoZone is the largest retailer of automotive replacement parts and accessories in the US. They even offer free next day delivery on parts.
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Commission Rate: 4% Per Sale
Cookie Duration: 1 Day
Avis is recognized as one of the best rental car brands and they maintain it by ensuring a stress-free car rental experience.
TIP: We maintain a database of the best affiliate programs. Click here to see the best automotive affiliate programs.
Once you’ve been approved for the product’s affiliate program, the program will give you your affiliate link, and you can start inserting it into your content.
How To Monetize A Automotive Blog With Affiliate Marketing
To add your link to your content, go to your post editor, highlight the relevant text, and insert the link.
Here are a few best practices for adding affiliate links to your WordPress blog:
- Add links where it’s helpful. Adding too many links to your blog posts is just like adding too many ads; it’s annoying. Add links to product titles, images, CTA buttons, and the first time you mention a product. That’s plenty.
- Disclose your links. Every blog post with affiliate links should have a disclaimer at the beginning, and every CTA or product image should also.
- Use direct sales language. When you are writing your call to action, be direct. It’s not rude to say, “Check the price” or “Buy this product today.” Being too passive makes you look unconfident.
Or, take it a step further by creating product displays.
You Can Double Your Affiliate Sales With Lasso Displays
You can create displays manually using the post editor to add links to images and buttons.
However, it can be time-consuming to create these displays and keep them updated if you’re doing it all by hand.
Luckily, monetizing your blog with affiliate links is simplified when you’re using a tool like Lasso.
Lasso makes it super easy to add links and product displays to your posts. You can add product displays to posts right from the post editor; no coding is required. It’s as simple as clicking your mouse three times.
You can also automatically import product info from retailers like Amazon. Just paste the link into the Lasso dashboard, and Lasso will populate the display with the product title, image, and price.
With all of this, remember to follow the guidelines in the affiliate program’s terms and conditions. Amazon, in particular, is pretty stringent.
But everything Lasso does is compliant with Amazon Associates’ TOS, so you never have to worry about being booted from the program.
That’s just scratching the surface of what Lasso can do to help you monetize your automotive blog. If you’re ready to start making a serious affiliate income from your automotive site, sign up for Lasso today.
A WordPress plugin that lets you add, manage, and display your affiliate links from any program, including Amazon. Increase conversions. Find new affiliate link opportunities. Earn more revenue! Less than 5 minutes to set up.
Affiliate Marketing Pros and Cons for Automotive Bloggers
Affiliate marketing has its perks for automotive bloggers. It can be a great revenue stream. When you promote car products or services, you earn commissions on sales. If your audience trusts your recommendations, they’re likely to buy what you suggest.
However, there are some downsides to consider. It can take time to build a solid audience before making significant income. Plus, there’s the challenge of choosing the right affiliates. You need to ensure that the products align with your blog’s niche and are of high quality.
Another thing is the potential for passive income. Once you set up affiliate links, you can earn while you sleep. But this also means keeping your content updated to maintain relevancy with your audience.
Lastly, remember that too many affiliate promotions can turn readers off. Strike a balance between informative content and promotions. Your goal should always be to provide value, not just push sales.
2. Display Ads
The second best way to monetize your automotive blog is with display ads. Ads are the internet's favorite monetization method, but they have severe drawbacks.
How to Monetize a Automotive Blog With Display Ads
Monetizing a automotive blog with display ads couldn’t be easier.
First, choose an ad network to join. Networks have traffic requirements, so here are the best ad networks to join based on your site’s page views:
- 100,000+ Visitors per month - Raptive
- 50,000+ Sessions per month - Mediavine
- < 50,000+ Visitors per month - Ezoic
NOTE: WordPress is an open-source software found on WordPress.org. WordPress.com is a premium blogging platform, but you never need to pay to install WordPress on your website, even if it’s self-hosted.
Once you’re accepted to an ad network, follow their instructions to integrate their ads into your site. They will have documentation for every type of content management service (WordPress, Joomla, Ghost, etc.).
If your chosen ad network has a dedicated accounts manager, they will guide you through getting their ads on your site.
And… that’s it. Let the ads run and wait for your deposits to hit your account.
TIP: Optimize your display ads for user experience by using your chosen network’s software settings or talking to your account manager. Keep the ads in the sidebar and footer whenever possible.
You’ll make a lot of money in the long run if you put your readers ahead of quick profit.
Display Ad Pros And Cons For Automotive Bloggers
Display ads can be a mixed bag for automotive bloggers. On the plus side, they provide a quick way to generate revenue. If your blog gets decent traffic, selling ad space can bring in a steady stream of income. Brands are often eager to showcase their cars and products where enthusiasts are engaged.
However, there's more to consider. Display ads can sometimes clutter your blog's design. Too many ads might push away readers or distract them from your content. This can hurt your user experience, which is vital for keeping visitors coming back.
Moreover, not all ads will be relevant to your audience. Some brand deals might not align with your blog's niche or the interests of your readers. Misaligned ads can lead to disengagement and may tarnish your credibility as a blogger.
In the end, it’s about finding the right balance. Consider mixing them with quality content to keep your audience engaged. Use analytics to track performance and make adjustments. This way, you can maximize the benefits of display ads while minimizing their drawbacks.
3. Digital Products
Selling your own digital products is a great way to increase your earnings per visitor in the automotive niche.
A digital product is anything you can sell on your automotive blog that the customer will receive via download.
Digital Products to Sell on an Automotive Blog:
- eBooks: Offer guides on car maintenance, repair tutorials, or car buying tips.
- Online Courses: Create courses on automotive topics like DIY repairs or car diagnostics.
- Checklists and Templates: Provide downloadable maintenance checklists or budget templates for car expenses.
- Printable Graphics: Sell posters or wall art featuring classic cars or automotive-themed designs.
- Membership Subscriptions: Access to exclusive content, forums, or expert Q&A sessions for automotive enthusiasts.
A lot of people search for simple checklists and guides related to different topics. They’d happily pay you for them.
Pros and Cons of Selling Digital Products for Automotive Bloggers
Selling digital products as an automotive blogger comes with its advantages. First, minimal overhead costs make it pretty easy to start. You don’t need a physical storefront or inventory. Once you've created a digital product, like an eBook or a video course, the costs to distribute it are quite low.
On the flip side, it requires a solid marketing strategy to succeed. Just because you've created something doesn't mean people will rush to buy it. You'll need to utilize SEO, social media, and probably email marketing to get your product noticed. That's effort and often requires a learning curve.
Additionally, digital products offer the benefit of passive income. Once the initial work is done, you can earn money while you sleep. However, you'll need to keep updating your materials to stay relevant, or risk losing sales over time.
Lastly, selling digital products can boost your reputation within the automotive niche. By sharing your knowledge, you build trust with your audience, positioning yourself as an authority. But remember, it can take time to establish that credibility, so patience is key.
How To Monetize a Automotive Blog By Selling Digital Products
The first thing to do is create your digital product.
Look at which content your audience interacts with the most, and brainstorm digital products to help serve their search intent.
That’s what I did when I created our Ultimate Blogging Guide:
Get Your FREE 20-Page Guide To Making $1000/Day From Your Niche Blog
Then, create the product using whatever tools are at your disposal. For example, use Microsoft Word to create an ebook PDF, or Google Sheets to create interactive spreadsheets and checklists.
Next, you have to figure out how to distribute your product. The easiest way to distribute PDFs is by uploading them to your WordPress media library. Then you can give customers the link, and they can download the PDF from there.
Lastly, you’ll have to set up payment processing and order fulfillment. A plugin like Woocommerce can automate most of this, but you’ll have to tie it to a processor like Stripe or PayPal.
Woocommerce can even connect to an email tool like ConvertKit, so as soon as your customer finishes their checkout, they’ll get an email with a link to their download.
TIP: You can still use Lasso to get more clicks to your digital products. Just create a Lasso display with the link pointing to your product’s sales page.
Barring any issues, you won’t have to do anything but watch your bank account grow.
4. Email Newsletter
One effective way to monetize a automotive blog is by creating an email newsletter. This method allows you to build a loyal audience and engage with your readers on a more personal level. Let's explore how to monetize a automotive blog with an email newsletter and the pros and cons of email marketing for automotive bloggers.
How to Monetize a Automotive Blog with an Email Newsletter
An email newsletter is a regular communication sent to subscribers who have opted into your mailing list. For automotive bloggers, this is a golden opportunity to monetize your content. By sharing car reviews, maintenance tips, or latest industry news directly to inboxes, you foster a tight-knit community while also driving sales through various channels.
To start monetizing through an email newsletter, first, you need to build a robust subscriber base. Offer incentives, like exclusive eBooks on car maintenance, discounts on automotive products, or early bird access to your blog’s content. Once you have a steady stream of subscribers, regularly send out newsletters packed with valuable content. Don’t forget to insert affiliate links, promote sponsored content, or even sell ad space directly in your emails. Each of these methods can provide a revenue boost.
Engagement is key when it comes to an email newsletter. Aim for headlines that catch attention and content that offers real value. You might share personal stories about your automotive adventures or your take on the latest trends in the auto industry. The more your readers find your content engaging, the more likely they are to click on affiliate links or engage with your sponsored content. Also, consider using segmentation. Tailoring messages to specific segments of your audience can lead to more successful campaigns and higher conversion rates.
Finally, don’t forget to analyze and adapt. Use email marketing tools to track open rates, clicks on your affiliate links, and conversions. Adjust your strategies based on that data to optimize your earnings over time. With the right approach, your email newsletter can become a steady stream of income that complements your automotive blog.
Pros and Cons of Email Marketing for Automotive Bloggers
- Pros:
- Direct Audience Engagement: Emails go straight to your audience’s inbox, offering a personal touch.
- High Conversion Rates: With tailored content, automotive-related products typically see better performance.
- Builds Authority: Regular updates position you as a go-to resource in the automotive niche, fostering loyalty.
- Control Over Monetization: You choose how to incorporate ads, affiliate links, and promotions without middlemen.
- Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Crafting quality newsletters and keeping the audience engaged can take time.
- Ignoring Opt-Outs: It’s crucial to respect subscriber preferences; otherwise, you risk losing followers.
- Spam Filters: Your emails may get caught in spam filters, reducing your overall reach.
- Initial Investment: There may be costs involved in email marketing services or advertising to grow your list.
5. Consulting and Coaching Services
Consulting or coaching is exchanging your expertise and time for a fee. Your customers need an expert, and you’ve proven yourself to be that expert.
As you become an authority in the industry, people will reach out to you with questions about topics they consider you an expert in.
Now, you don’t have to charge for being helpful, but you should place a dollar value on your time.
As a automotive blogger, you extensive knowledge of the industry. If a reader reaches out to you asking for help, you should get paid for that effort.
How To Monetize A Automotive Blog With Consulting Services
Monetizing a automotive blog with consulting services is similar to selling sponsored posts.
Put a “Coaching” option in your nav bar that goes to a landing page outlining your consulting services and your hourly rate. This will help head off some of the people looking for free advice.
TIP: Again, you can use Lasso to drive more clicks to your coaching pages. Just create a Display with a link to your sales page, and insert it into blog posts.
Then, wait for requests to come in, evaluate them, and propose your offer. If the customer accepts, send them an invoice using PayPal or another payment processor, and schedule the call.
Pros and Cons of Selling Consulting Services for Automotive Bloggers
One major pro of selling consulting services as an automotive blogger is your niche expertise. You've likely built a reputation in the automotive world, which makes you a trusted source. Your audience already sees your knowledge as valuable, so they may be more willing to pay for your insights and advice.
On the flip side, setting up and promoting a consulting service can be time-consuming. You’ll need to invest time in marketing your services and building a client base. It’s not just about being an expert; you also have to figure out how to reach potential clients and show them why they should choose you.
Another advantage is the potential for high earnings. Consulting can be lucrative if you offer specialized knowledge or unique insights. You can set your rates, allowing you to adjust based on demand and your level of expertise.
However, one downside is the risk of burnout. Juggling blog content and consulting can spread you thin. You'll need to keep delivering value on both fronts without compromising quality, which can be a delicate balance to maintain.
Supercharge your earnings with Lasso. Create no-code product Displays and Tables that convert, find and fix broken links, and gain valuable business insights with revenue analytics.
Learn MoreAutomotive Blog Monetization FAQs
What Is The Best Way To Make Money From Automotive Blogging?
If you want to build a successful automotive blog, then affiliate marketing is the best way to monetize it. It’s the least intrusive way to make a lot of money from your site without much extra effort.
Can I Make A Full-Time Income From Automotive Blogging?
Absolutely! Some automotive blogs, like Motor Trend and Autoblog get hundreds of thousands of monthly visitors. That’s enough for a full-time income for a small team of people.
How Do I Start a Automotive Blog?
Learning how to start a automotive blog is the first best way to use your expertise to start an online business.
You need to register a domain, install WordPress, and publish great content. It's a lot of work, but totally worth it!
How Do Automotive Bloggers Get Paid?
Most automotive bloggers make money through affiliate commissions and advertising fees. Both of these monetization methods pay out one or two months after the fees have been generated.
Some automotive bloggers also sell sponsored posts, consulting services, or their own products. In these cases, a payment processor like PayPal or Stripe is necessary.
Is Automotive Blogging Easy?
Nothing worth doing is truly easy, but that doesn’t mean automotive blogging isn’t fun.
As a automotive blogger, you’ll get to go places, try new things, and meet new people. And it will be part of your business! What could be cooler than that?
Is It Worth Starting A Automotive Blog?
It’s absolutely worth it to start a automotive blog. Not only can you make a living from it, but you can also build a community and control the conversation.
Once you’re an established authority, people in automotive-related industries will take you seriously.
Final Thoughts on Monetizing a Automotive Blog
Congratulations! You're now equipped with a bunch of ways to monetize your automotive blog.
But here’s a bonus tip:
Use multiple monetization methods!
Having different income streams is key to securing your blog's future.
If you promote affiliate offers, run display ads, and sell your own products, you won't be as affected if one source like Amazon cuts its commissions.
With this smart, layered approach and a bit of hard work, you'll be well on your way to earning what your blog truly deserves!
Why You Should Trust Our Automotive Blogging Content
You may be thinking, "that's all great, but what does Lasso know about automotive blogging?"
Quite a lot, actually.
Here's why you can trust our process for building a successful automotive blog:
We've Built Wildly Successful Blogs
Lasso is built for affiliate marketers, by affiliate marketers. We're not gurus; we've walked the walk.
Our team members have built multiple blogs from the ground up, some of them earning over seven figures in revenue.
We put that experience into every guide we write, so you can trust we're giving you a process that works.
We Talk To Automotive Bloggers Every Day
Lasso's WordPress plugin is installed on over 8,000 websites, including a lot of automotive blogs.
Our team supports those bloggers every day as they create awesome content and earn lots of money.
These communications give us a bird's-eye view of what's new in the automotive industry. We take that information and use it to keep these guides as up-to-date and accurate as possible.
We're Super Nerds
We've put a lot of company focus into learning everything we can about blogging, affiliate marketing, SEO, and anything to do with online entrepreneurship.
We attend conferences, collect high-level contacts, read tons of books, and distill all of that information into our content. We pass information onto you that was previously only available to industry insiders.
