I am trying to find ways to have my car pay for itself either through advertising, second job, or something similar. After reviewing my finances, I have found that my car is one of my biggest expenses yet most underused "assets" I own. I currently drive a 2004 BMW 325ci Navy blue which I making monthly installments of $333 plus $142 in insurance . Selling my car is off the table for a variety of reasons which I will not get into in this discussion rather, I am looking for a smart way to have my car pay for itself on an ongoing basis due to the ongoing expenses the vehicle incurs.

A few ideas I've had have been to "wrap" my car in advertising, something I understand can earn between $300-500+ per month... however, I've only found one company in my area who is willing to do this and they have had trouble finding an appropriate advertiser for my type car (basically only BMW 'the company' would be the only option). Another idea I've heard would be to use Universal "Cash" Life Insurance policy as collateral (see or Google IRC 7702)... basically the idea is you become the bank and you make my payments to your life insurance policy and not the bank-- not exactly paying for itself, but better to pay to yourself than the bank. Other ideas would be to get a second job that uses the car- such as a courier or that "google," street car (which I have not been able to locate where to apply)- however, I have yet found a second job that will make it worth my time. Whatever the source, at minimum, I would need it to pay $500 per month to cover the payment and insurance.

Anyway, I reach out to you to help me brainstorm ideas and/or share resources on this question. Any ideas would only be helpful. Thanks for your help!

I NEVER buy collision/comprehensive, drive defensively, and had one accident in the last 40 years, and it was the other person's fault. You could get a higher deductible.

Yes, it seems the Google jobs are taken unless you want Borneo.

I don't see many shrink wrap cars; I do see buses. It's not a bad idea, and maybe businesses don't know where to get the printing done (or it's too expensive), so you could research it and present it in a brochure or picture postcard around where you live. Another ad option would be a rooftop placard holder that could have removable cardboard ads, cheaper and you could alternate businesses for more money.
Even better: an LED moving ad display on top of your car, but check with the police about legalities.