Drive-In oil change shop

Local car owners looking for a fast, fairly priced service, plus small businesses with work vehicles.

Flat price per oil change by oil type, plus add-on sales like air filters, cabin filters, wipers and fluid services. A busy location with good visibility and repeat customers drives volume.

• Basic car mechanical knowledge
• Customer service and upselling honestly
• Managing inventory and staff

• Zoning and permits: check with your city or county that auto service is allowed at the site
• Used oil, filters and floor drains fall under environmental rules that vary by state, so check requirements and get a disposal contractor
• Garage liability and garagekeepers insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Check your state for auto repair registration or technician rules, and sales tax on parts
• Lease costs and slow months: make sure rent is covered at lower volumes

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $80,000 to $250,000, depending on your lease, equipment and fit-out. Monthly revenue is also an estimate, typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on how many cars you service.

Check with your city or county that auto service is allowed at the site. Also check state environmental rules for used oil, filters and floor drains, auto repair registration or technician rules, sales tax on parts, and garage liability insurance.

Expect around 40 hours a week or more. Useful skills include basic car mechanical knowledge, honest customer service, and managing inventory and staff. Make sure rent is covered during slower months.