With cars becoming more expensive to buy, it is not surprising then that car owners are more focused on vehicle maintenance. This meant that the automotive industry has actually grown in 2023 in all areas, including the car franchise business.
The US automotive industry has been continuously growing over the years with more than 288 million cars currently on the road. Since the pandemic has halted the production of new cars, used car prices have risen by 30%, more than inflation itself.
This has meant that the average vehicle age has risen to 12 years – the oldest cars have ever been in the US.
The Car Franchise
Automotive franchises are only a part of the growing automotive industry in which the car aftermarket business value is expected to reach “$828.6 billion [globally] in 2023”.
This is great news for those looking to operate an automotive franchise, as it means that the industry is only going to continue to grow in the coming years. So, if you’re looking for a stable and profitable investment, starting an automotive franchise opportunity is definitely a wise choice.
Automotive franchises provide a countless range of services from simple auto maintenance, such as tire change, oil change, and filters to rental centers and wash stations.
To help you navigate the vast range of automotive franchise opportunities, we have prepared a menu without top automotive franchises in 2023. We have purposely included franchises offering a variety of services and business options, in order to guide you through your journey.
12 Car Franchises in The U.S.
As automotive services continue to grow, so do the opportunities in the franchise industry. Here we list the most automotive franchises, covering a wide range of services from car rental centers, and mobile vehicle repair, auto devices to car wash services.
Car Tools Franchises
The following are the top automotive brand franchises focused on selling tools to professional mechanics or hobbyists.
1. Snap-On Tools
- Year Founded: 1920
- Franchising Since: 1991
- Existing Locations: 4,600+
The Snap-On Tools brand is so popular with auto mechanics that it’s easy to miss the fact they are a franchise business.
Since 1921, they have maintained the high quality of their tools, making them the most trusted and reliable brand in the industry.
Apart from being a low-investment entry franchise, Snap-On Tools offer free marketing and initial training for franchisees. They are also flexible on how you run your business – whether it is a mobile unit or a fixed shop, is entirely up to you.
2. Matco Tools
- Year Founded: 1946
- Franchising Since: 1993
- Existing Locations: 1,700+
- Royalty Fees: varies
Another brand in the automotive franchise industry, Matco Tools serves both professional car mechanics and enthusiasts. They also boast 19 consecutive years of ranking in the Top 50 Franchise 500 by Entrepreneur Magazine.
Matco also have some of the most exciting marketing partnerships, including Universal Studios and the TV Brand Muscle Car.
This automotive franchise business offers opportunities in both multi-unit franchises, as well as single-shop business options. With a customized growth route for your investment, this business provides one of the best support systems for their franchisees, through the Matco Business System Training Program.
Besides the courses on sales, marketing, and tools, the program also includes support for using the proprietary Matco Business Application (software).
Auto Repair Franchises
The following list includes franchise businesses that offer customers auto repair services including change oil, tire change, and collision centers.
3. Valvoline Instant Change Oil
- Year Founded: 1866
- Franchising Since: 1988
- Existing Locations:1,000+
- Royalty Fees: 4-6%
Valvoline Instant Change Oil, has been in the industry for over 25 years, providing preventive maintenance services in neighborhoods across the States.
They have multiple opportunities for those wanting to start their own car franchise.
One option allows an independent automotive service center to include the brand in its existing range, giving the franchisee more flexibility.
Thanks to their deep knowledge of the auto service industry, they are able to offer their franchisees a unique Talent Management system.
The system makes it easy for franchise owners to recruit, assess and develop their employees so that they provide their customers with the best possible service.
4. Jiffy Lube Inc
- Year Founded: 1979
- Franchise Since: 1979
- Existing Locations: 2,000+
- Royalty Fees: 4%
Jiffy Lube Incis the Number 1 preferred national chain in this part of the automotive business world. Not only is it the number 1 in the services they offer, but it is the top choice by many. Not to mention, it is indirectly owned by one of the biggest oil companies in the world, Shell Oil.
If you’re interested to invest in Jiffy Lube, you will join Jiffy Lube Connect, a communication portal for all company franchisees. This means that you will learn, and receive advice and knowledge from others who have had success.
5. Big O Tires
- Year Founded: 1962
- Franchise Since: 1982
- Existing Locations: 450+
- Royalty Fees: 5%
The Big O Tires company ranked #1 in the Wheel and Tire category for 2020 by Entrepreneur magazine. Apart from servicing and selling tires, the company also offers standard maintenance and repair, including lube and change oil, air filter replacements, and brake services.
Thanks to their established business model, Big O Tires franchisees can feel confident they will be receiving high-quality training and a reliable supply chain network. The company also offers the opportunity to own a multi-unit franchise, a great option for more ambitious business owners.
6. Glass Doctor
- Year Founded: 1962
- Franchise Started Since: 1977
- Existing Location: 150+
- Royalty Fees: 5-7%
Founded in 1962, Glass Doctor offers complete glass service, repair, and replacement services, including window tinting on any vehicle. They have more recently also extended their services to residential and business glass. The company currently has more than 150 existing locations in the US and Canada and an additional 13 locations globally.
One of the greatest benefits of joining Glass Doctor is that it belongs to the bigger home services group Neighborly. This means that you will receive high-end training and support, as well as access to their scheduling and billing software.
Plus, with over 150 existing locations in the US and Canada, the Glass Doctor auto repair franchise is well-established and has a proven track record.
7. CARSTAR
- Year Founded: 1980
- Franchising Since:1989
- Existing Locations: 700+>
- Royalty Fees: 1.5%
CARSTAR operates both fully branded, but also independently owned collision center franchises. With 53% of their North American locations part of an MSO group, CARSTAR is one of North America’s largest MSO networks.
They are also well known for their nationwide customer warranty, proof of their consistent high-quality auto repair services.
CARSTAR is the only one that has a dedicated purchase team who negotiates directly with suppliers for their franchise owners’ benefit. As part of the brand, you will be able to access unbeatable prices from over 50 partners in their network.
Car Rental Service Franchises
The following list includes the top vehicle rental companies to invest in, offering high-quality service to both the customer and the franchisee.
8. The Hertz Corporation
- Year Founded: 1918
- Franchising Since: 1941
- Existing Locations: 3,000+
- Royalty Fees: 7-9%
Hertz is amongst the best and most known car rental brands globally and the number one airport car rental company in the world. They offer franchising opportunities within the US, Canada, and internationally.
Hertz offers their operators one of the best lists of strategic partners, such as airports, hotels, and other companies that will consistently bring in customers. Furthermore, franchisees can take advantage of more than 10 marketing channels this parent company offers.
9. Avis Budget Group
- Year Founded: 1946
- Franchising Since: 1953
- Existing Locations: 4,000+
- Royalty Fees: 7.5%
The Avis Budget Group includes brands such as AVIS, Budget, Zipcar, and Payless Car Rental and is a brand known not only in the US but globally. Their business model offers franchise opportunities at various investment levels.
The initial investment cost varies depending on the country, the number of customers, and the brand you choose to invest in.
Car Wash Franchises
When deciding on the right car wash business model for your franchise, you should consider all available options like self-serve, full-service, or touchless systems. Evaluate which option is best suited to meet your needs and offer the most value to customers. Find out some of the best car wash franchises in the US today!
10. Tommy’s Express
- Year Founded: 1969
- Franchising Since: 2016
- Existing Locations: 227
- Royalty Fees: 4%
Tommy’s Express is an award-winning car wash business that has been operational for over a decade. They have car washes located all over the country and are well known for their high-quality car care services.
To make sure that its franchisees have the opportunity to thrive, the company has improved upon its franchising system and upgraded it for optimal growth in each respective carwash territory.
With no need to worry about expiry dates, low labor costs, and superior industry guidance from conception through to opening day – you can be sure that your automotive franchise business venture is in safe hands.
11. Super Wash
- Year Founded: 1982
- Franchising Since: 2001
- Existing Locations: 280
- Fees: varies
For the past forty years, a family-owned and operated franchise has been America’s top expert in self-serve and touchless type. With 280 locations spanning from coast to coast, they guarantee superior service for every single vehicle!
From the site selection and obtaining zoning permits to construction, installation, and management – this locally-owned carwash offers an all-inclusive turnkey solution that covers it all.
Even after your auto wash is up & running, they’ll still provide top-notch support as part of their enduring commitment to their partnership.
12. DetailXPerts
- Year Founded: 2002
- Franchise Since: 2008
- Existing Locations: 300+
- Royalty Fees: 6%
Franchising with DetailXperts is an excellent choice for auto wash business owners who want to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to auto wash technologies and services.
Not only does DetailXperts offer superior full service for vehicle cleaning, but they are dedicated to sustainability and eco-friendly solutions. Their patent-pending technology guarantees carwashing excellence every time.
Their unparalleled support among franchisees includes:
- up to 40 hours of comprehensive classroom training,
- on-site guidance and instruction,
- and extensive marketing strategies with materials for referral tools.
If you consider DetailXPerts, they have three business models that you can choose from.
- Free Standing Auto Detail Shop
- Mobile Detailing Unit
- Free Standing Auto Detail Shop+Mobile Detailing Unit(s)
Final Thoughts
If you love cars, understand them, or simply enjoy seeing others drive them, then you are halfway to your road trip to success. The other half is the booming of auto repair market, one that has not been impacted as much by the standstill of other industries.
With so many automotive opportunities, you can reach your dream to become your own boss. There has not been a better time to join the car franchise world, even with no automotive experience. Reach out to a free franchise consultant who can help you search for the most suitable franchise investment for you.
Based on your location, related skills, and financial commitment, your consultant will help you find the perfect franchise for you.
