How Did the Top Automotive Franchise on the 2025 Franchise 500 Get to Number 1? By Taking a Page From the Fast-Food Industry's Playbook. Valvoline Instant Oil Change has redefined automotive maintenance with a drive-through model built for today's on-the-go consumers.
By Carl Stoffers Edited by Jessica Thomas
Key Takeaways
- Ranked #24 overall and #1 in automotive on Entrepreneur’s 2025 Franchise 500, Valvoline has grown by over 26% in three years, with more than 1,800 units.
- Valvoline Instant Oil Change uses a fast-food-inspired model to offer 15-minute oil changes and a range of maintenance services.
- Valvoline’s eco-friendly practices, like responsible oil and filter recycling, cater to the growing demand for sustainable business solutions.
In a world obsessed with speed and efficiency, it's no surprise that the automotive industry has embraced the drive-through model. Ranked #24 overall and #1 in the automotive category on Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500, Valvoline Instant Oil Change is redefining car maintenance by offering 15-minute oil changes while customers stay comfortably in their vehicles.
- Overall Franchise 500 rank: 24
- Number of units: 1,807
- Change in units: +26.1% over 3 years
- Initial investment: $193,000-$3,500,000
Related: Here's how we determined the annual Franchise 500 ranking — and what we learned from the data.
With a system modeled on the fast-food industry's focus on convenience, Valvoline delivers more than just oil changes. Customers can address tire rotations, battery replacements and air filter changes in a single visit. This streamlined, no-appointment-needed approach appeals to today's time-strapped drivers.
Related: The One Factor the Top Franchises of 2025 Have in Common
For franchise owners, Valvoline Instant Oil Change combines the strength of a trusted, nationally recognized brand with robust training and support. Its customer-first approach extends to eco-conscious practices, such as responsible recycling of used oil and filters. These initiatives align with the growing consumer demand for sustainability in everyday services.
With its strong Franchise 500 ranking and a proven track record of growth, Valvoline Instant Oil Change offers an appealing opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to invest in a business that delivers both scalability and modern convenience. Blending fast-food-inspired service with top-tier automotive care, Valvoline is driving the future of car maintenance one 15-minute stop at a time.
Related: Explore the full 2025 Franchise 500 list, complete with category rankings.
