

Established in 1975 as Merlin Muffler & Brake, Merlin Complete Auto Care has evolved into a comprehensive automotive service provider dedicated to vehicle longevity.
Founded in Illinois, the company has grown to serve communities across multiple states, offering a full spectrum of "A to Z" automotive repair and maintenance services, from air conditioning fixes to wiper replacements. Merlin began franchising to expand its reach and bring its unique approach to auto care to a broader audience.
In 2014, the company joined the Driven Brands family, further enhancing its capabilities and support systems for franchisees. What sets Merlin apart is its commitment to helping customers achieve long-term vehicle use goals.
The "Drive for 200,000" program exemplifies this dedication by focusing on preventive maintenance designed to extend the life of vehicles, aiming to help customers reach 200,000 miles. This focus on vehicle longevity not only differentiates Merlin from competitors but also fosters strong customer relationships built on trust and reliability.
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.
Merlin Complete Auto Care provides comprehensive training programs to its franchisees to ensure successful operation of their shops. The training includes:
Merlin Complete Auto Care offers territory protection to its franchisees to provide a competitive advantage within a defined area. This protection ensures that no other Merlin franchise can operate within the same designated territory, allowing franchisees to build their business without facing internal competition.
The specific boundaries and details of the territory are typically outlined in the franchise agreement. The franchise also considers market demographics and population density when determining territory size.
This approach ensures that the franchisee has a sufficient customer base to support the shop's success. However, territory protection does not preclude competition from other automotive service providers outside the Merlin franchise system.
Below are some of
Merlin Complete Auto Care
key competitors in the
Auto Repair
sector.

24
$30,000
$265,000
$534,000
n.a.
$1,150,000
$xxx,xxx
71.9%
n.a.
38.6%
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists is an automotive franchise offering professional wheel repair and refinishing services, including curb rash removal, color changes, and structural repairs.
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Dentsmart is an automotive service franchise specializing in paintless dent repair, providing fast, cost-effective solutions for hail damage and minor dents.
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