Valvoline Instant Oil Change Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Valvoline Instant Oil Change (VIOC) is a leader in automotive preventive maintenance. It was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky.
Valvoline started franchising its service centers in 1988, fueling rapid growth. As of 2024, Valvoline has opened its 1,000th franchise, part of nearly 1,900 retail locations across North America.
VIOC specializes in fast, stay-in-your-car oil changes, typically completed in about 15 minutes. Customers also benefit from an 18-point safety check and services like battery replacements, tire rotations, and more. This emphasis on speed and quality has earned Valvoline a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Valvoline sets itself apart through innovation and convenience. Its no-appointment-necessary model and expansive service network make automotive maintenance simple and efficient. With plans to add 250 new stores annually by 2027, VIOC continues to thrive through a robust franchise system.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Valvoline Instant Oil Change franchise? It costs on average between $192,000 - $3,484,000 to start a Valvoline Instant Oil Change franchised facility.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of store you choose, the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| License Fee | $30,000 |
| Land and Improvements Purchased | $1,550,000 to $2,750,000 |
| Land and Improvements Leased for Three Months | $12,500 to $24,500 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $7,500 to $10,000 |
| Training | $5,000 to $10,000 |
| Security Deposits | $500 to $11,500 |
| Insurance | $10,000 to $15,000 |
| Start up Supplies | $22,000 to $30,000 |
| Initial Inventory of Valvoline Products | $28,750 to $62,050 |
| Equipment and Service Systems | $10,000 to $350,000 |
| Signage Leased for Three Months | $1,125 to $1,500 |
| Signage Purchased | $45,000 to $120,000 |
| Point-of-Sale System | $15,000 to $30,000 |
| Additional Funds for Three Months | $50,000 to $65,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment. | $192,375 to $3,483,550 |
Valvoline Instant Oil Change Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Valvoline Instant Oil Change franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Valvoline Instant Oil Change’s investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans for real estate. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure to reduce debt service. See SharpSheets’ financial model hub for funding guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Valvoline Instant Oil Change franchise investment?
Payback periods for franchises in Valvoline Instant Oil Change’s category typically run 3-7 years, depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Valvoline Instant Oil Change?
Valvoline Instant Oil Change is owned by Valvoline Inc., a global leader in automotive lubricants and services. However, in August 2022, Valvoline sold its Global Products business, which includes its lubricants and chemicals segment, to Aramco, the Saudi Arabian oil company.
Valvoline Inc. retained ownership of its Retail Services division, which operates the Valvoline Instant Oil Change locations. Therefore, the franchise network continues to be part of Valvoline Inc.’s Retail Services business.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: June 2026
Disclaimer
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