

Meineke Car Care Centers is a renowned automotive repair franchise that has been providing reliable services since its establishment in 1972 by Sam Meineke in San Antonio, Texas.
Originally focused on offering discount muffler services, the franchise quickly expanded its range of offerings, transforming into a comprehensive car care center by 1999.
Now part of Driven Brands, Inc., a global leader in the automotive aftermarket franchising sector, Meineke has experienced significant growth and widespread success.
Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, the franchise has become a well-recognized name with more than 800 locations across the United States and internationally.
Meineke has been franchising since its inception, establishing itself as a trailblazer in the automotive service industry.
The franchise provides a wide array of automotive services, such as brake repair, oil changes, exhaust maintenance, and diagnostic solutions, ensuring vehicle owners have access to essential maintenance and care.
Here's what you would need to invest if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Meineke's structured training program is designed to ensure franchisees are well-prepared to operate their centers effectively. The components of the training program include:
Meineke provides territorial protection by designating a “Protected Area” of two miles around the approved franchise location, where no other Meineke Center can operate. Additionally, franchisees have the right of first refusal for new centers within a three-mile radius.
Meineke also limits franchise density, ensuring one center per 50,000 registered vehicles in the area. However, the franchisor retains the right to operate under different trademarks or co-branding arrangements outside these protections.
Below are some of
Meineke Car Care Centers
key competitors in the
Auto Repair
sector.

702
$45,000
$227,000
$581,000
n.a.
$915,000
$xxx,xxx
76.1%
n.a.
18.6%
n.a.

Summit Auto Calibration is an automotive-services franchise offering ADAS camera and sensor calibration for modern vehicles, serving body shops, glass installers, and dealerships, and known for mobile and fixed operations, OEM-compliant procedures, and helping collision centers safely return vehicles.
?
?

Black Optix Tint is an automotive styling franchise offering window tinting, paint protection, ceramic coatings, and audio upgrades, serving car owners and enthusiasts, and known for bold branding, multi-service customization packages, and support from United Franchise Group’s wider franchising ecosystem.
?
?

Purrfect Auto Service is an automotive-service franchise offering full repair, maintenance, fast-lube and smog services, serving vehicle owners seeking trustworthy care, and known for ethical operations, returning parts to clients, and consistent franchisee support.
?
?

Brake Masters is an automotive repair franchise providing services including brake repair, oil changes, and general vehicle maintenance. Known for its ASE-certified technicians, the franchise emphasizes customer service and quality workmanship.
?
?

Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists is an automotive franchise offering professional wheel repair and refinishing services, including curb rash removal, color changes, and structural repairs.
?
?

Dentsmart is an automotive service franchise specializing in paintless dent repair, providing fast, cost-effective solutions for hail damage and minor dents.
?
?
Choosing a franchise goes beyond reviewing fees and financials — it requires an honest assessment of your goals, skills, and risk tolerance. This article outlines the key questions prospective owners should ask before committing. It helps clarify whether the opportunity aligns with your lifestyle, long-term plans, and operational preferences.
Speaking with current and former franchisees is one of the most reliable ways to understand how a franchise really operates. This guide explains how to conduct validation calls, what questions to ask, and how to identify patterns in feedback. It provides a practical framework for uncovering real performance expectations and support quality.
Not all franchise opportunities offer the same potential. This article breaks down how to evaluate a brand’s industry, financial health, support systems, and competitive positioning. It helps prospective buyers compare options and identify franchises with strong long-term viability.
A clear, well-structured business plan is essential for securing financing and preparing for the realities of franchise ownership. This article explains how to build a plan that covers market analysis, operations, staffing, and local marketing. It also outlines how to create realistic pro forma financials, including revenue projections, startup costs, and break-even analysis. Readers gain a practical framework they can use when applying for loans or planning their first years of operations.