1962
55
$125,000
$37,500
$250,000
No
Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care is a renowned automotive repair franchise with a legacy dating back to 1962. Specializing in comprehensive transmission services, brake systems, suspension, air conditioning, and general auto maintenance, Cottman has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. With a commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction, Cottman offers franchisees a proven business model in the ever-growing automotive repair sector.
Established Brand Recognition: Benefit from over six decades of brand development and a reputation for excellence in automotive repair.
Diverse Service Offerings: Cater to a wide customer base by providing a range of services from transmission repair to general auto maintenance.
Comprehensive Support: Receive extensive training and ongoing support to ensure the success of your franchise.
Semi-Absentee Ownership: Operate the business with a flexible management structure, allowing for passive ownership opportunities.
Founded: Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care was established in 1962 by Richard Silva in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The brand began as a small transmission repair shop and gradually expanded its services to include total auto care, covering brakes, suspension, air conditioning, and general vehicle maintenance.
Brand Journey: Over six decades, Cottman has built a reputation for quality and reliability in automotive repair. Its focus on transmission services initially made it a specialist brand, and later, expanding into total auto care positioned it as a full-service auto repair franchise. The company emphasizes customer trust, transparency, and dependable service.
Franchise Growth: Cottman began franchising to expand its footprint nationally. Today, it has approximately 55 franchise locations across the United States, with a strong concentration on the East Coast and Gulf Coast regions.
Ownership and Corporate Structure: Cottman is owned by American Driveline Systems, Inc., which acquired the brand in 2004. The parent company manages strategic growth, marketing support, and operational guidance for franchisees.
Market Presence: Operating in the automotive repair industry, Cottman competes in the fast-growing service and maintenance sector of the U.S. automotive market. Its well-known brand name and long-standing reputation give it a competitive advantage in attracting customers who value trusted service and certified technicians.
Industry Category: Automotive Repair & Maintenance – specializing in transmission repair but offering a broad range of services under “Total Auto Care.”
Additional Notes: Cottman has consistently emphasized technical excellence, continuous training for franchisees and technicians, and innovation in service management systems to ensure consistent quality across all locations.
Pre-Launch Support:
Comprehensive training program including 40 hours of classroom instruction and 24 hours of on-the-job training.
Assistance in site selection and lease negotiation.
Grand opening planning and execution.
Ongoing Support:
Access to a dedicated Sales Development Manager.
Technical hotline for operational assistance.
Utilization of the Cottman Business Management System (POS).
Marketing support through ROSS Advertising, an in-house agency.
Passion for the Automotive Industry:
The ideal Cottman franchisee is someone with a genuine interest in cars and automotive maintenance. While technical experience in auto repair is beneficial, it is not mandatory, as Cottman provides comprehensive training and support to get franchisees up to speed. What matters most is a commitment to quality service, customer satisfaction, and business growth.
Business Background and Skills:
Prospective franchisees should have a strong entrepreneurial mindset and a willingness to manage or oversee business operations. Experience in managing teams, business operations, or customer service is a plus, as running a Cottman location requires balancing staff management, operational efficiency, and customer relations.
Investment Capability:
Cottman franchisees need a minimum net worth of $100,000 and liquid assets of at least $50,000 to support startup costs and initial operations. The ability to invest in marketing, staff training, and infrastructure is important to ensure long-term success.
Commitment and Leadership:
The ideal candidate is hands-on, engaged in local marketing, and able to foster a positive work culture. Leadership qualities, decision-making skills, and dedication to maintaining Cottman’s brand standards are essential.
Location and Market Focus:
Franchisees should be willing to operate in areas with high vehicle ownership and demand for quality auto repair services. While Cottman franchises are available in many U.S. states, certain regions like Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin are excluded due to existing operations or market considerations.
Growth-Oriented Mindset:
The ideal franchisee is someone looking not just to operate a single location but potentially expand into multiple units as their business grows. They should value long-term profitability, customer loyalty, and reputation management.
Personal Traits:
Strong work ethic and perseverance
Commitment to customer satisfaction
Ability to follow proven systems and procedures
Interest in continuous learning and improvement
| Financial Component | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $37,500 |
| Total Investment | $125,000 – $250,000 (depending on location and facility size) |
| Minimum Net Worth Required | $100,000 |
| Liquid Capital Required | $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 7.5% of gross sales |
| Advertising / Marketing Fee | $765 per week |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies based on location and size of facility; typically $60,000 – $120,000 |
| Working Capital | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 months |
| Expected ROI | Approximately 20% – 25% annually, depending on market and management efficiency |
| Revenue Streams | Transmission repair, general auto maintenance, brakes, suspension, A/C service, fleet accounts, commercial contracts |
