Established
1984
Franchise Units
170
Minimum Investment
$900,000
Franchise Fee
$45,000
Total Investment Range
$1,400,000
Home Based
No
Description
Oilstop Drive-Thru Oil Change is a pioneer in the fast-lube automotive service segment, built around one powerful idea: deliver high-quality oil change and preventive maintenance services without customers ever leaving their vehicles. In an era where convenience, speed, and trust define consumer choices, Oilstop’s drive-thru model stands out as a proven, customer-centric solution with decades of operational refinement.
Unlike traditional quick-lube shops, Oilstop locations are designed for transparency and efficiency. Customers remain in their cars, interact directly with certified technicians, and watch services being performed in real time. This approach builds immediate trust, reduces service time, and creates a premium customer experience that drives repeat business and strong word-of-mouth referrals.
With rising vehicle ownership, longer car retention cycles, and increasing demand for preventive maintenance, Oilstop occupies a resilient niche within the U.S. automotive aftermarket. The brand’s strong systems, disciplined operations, and scalable footprint make it an attractive franchise opportunity for investors seeking a semi-absentee or owner-operator business with long-term growth potential.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
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Proven Drive-Thru Concept – A differentiated service model that eliminates waiting rooms and maximizes throughput
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Recession-Resistant Industry – Automotive maintenance remains essential regardless of economic cycles
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Strong Brand Reputation – Decades of consistent service quality and customer trust across the U.S.
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Operational Efficiency – Optimized service bays, standardized procedures, and minimal inventory complexity
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High Repeat Business – Oil changes and preventive services drive predictable, recurring revenue
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Scalable Multi-Unit Potential – Ideal for franchisees looking to expand into multiple territories over time
Background
Established Year: 1984
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Founder: Mark Stevens
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Industry Category: Automotive Services / Quick Lube & Preventive Maintenance
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Franchise Active Units: 170+ locations
Oilstop was founded in California in 1984 with a simple but disruptive idea—remove friction from the oil change process. By eliminating the need for customers to exit their vehicles and focusing on speed, honesty, and education, the brand quickly built a loyal customer base.
Over the years, Oilstop refined its systems, invested heavily in training and safety protocols, and expanded its service offerings beyond oil changes to include transmission fluid service, radiator service, differential service, and fleet maintenance. Today, Oilstop operates across multiple U.S. states and continues to grow through franchising with a disciplined, quality-first expansion strategy.
Support Training
Oilstop is known for its hands-on franchise support and structured training programs designed to set operators up for long-term success.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and territory analysis
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Assistance with build-out, equipment sourcing, and vendor relationships
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Local market launch planning and pre-opening marketing strategy
Training & Operational Support
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Comprehensive initial training covering operations, customer service, safety, and compliance
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On-site opening support from experienced trainers
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Detailed operations manuals and standardized service procedures
Marketing & Brand Support
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National brand marketing and digital visibility support
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Local store marketing playbooks and promotional calendars
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Guidance on community outreach, fleet partnerships, and customer retention
Ongoing Support
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Dedicated franchise business consultants
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Continuous training updates and performance benchmarking
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Operational audits, best-practice sharing, and leadership development
Ideal Candidate
Oilstop is best suited for disciplined operators and investors who value systems, people management, and customer experience.
Ideal candidates typically include:
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Entrepreneurs seeking a proven, operations-driven business
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Multi-unit operators looking to diversify into automotive services
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Semi-absentee owners with strong management teams
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Individuals with leadership, operations, or service-based business experience
Key Traits:
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Strong people-management and hiring skills
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Commitment to operational excellence and safety
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Willingness to follow a proven system
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Adequate capital and a long-term growth mindset
Preferred locations include high-traffic corridors, suburban growth markets, and vehicle-dense trade areas across the United States.
Financial Detail
| Financial Category | Estimated Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $45,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $900,000 – $1,400,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $350,000+ |
| Initial Franchise Term | 20 years |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of gross sales |
| Brand Marketing Fund | 2% of gross sales |
| Real Estate & Construction | $600,000 – $900,000 |
| Equipment & Service Bays | $150,000 – $250,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Training & Opening Support | Included |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $75,000 – $125,000 |
| Estimated Annual Revenue (Mature Unit) | $1.1M – $1.8M |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 24 – 36 months |
| Expansion / Multi-Unit Opportunity | Available |
| Renewal Term | 10 years |