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.
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.
Related: The One Factor the Top Franchises of 2025 Have in Common
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.
