Franchise Deep Dive: CARSTAR Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

The car collision repair brand has national name recognition, ongoing training for certified technicians and an expansive franchisee network through DrivenBrands.

By Erica InmanStaff Writer

6:06AM • 01/07/24

LAST UPDATED: December 2023

FRANCHISE WEBSITE: carstarfranchise.com

NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 446+

REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $23,500 to $165,300

REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $1,544,199 to $3,395,770 (median gross sales)

CARSTAR, the 446-plus-unit automobile collision repair brand, started as a single store in Missouri over 35 years ago. Now, the brand has locations across the U.S. and Canada. The brand requires franchisees to purchase a minimum of two locations.

How Many CARSTAR Locations Are There?

CARSTAR opened its first store in 1989 in Liberty, Missouri. Five years later, the brand expanded into Canada. In 1997, CARSTAR signed its first insurance partner agreement. In 2018, CARSTAR celebrated reaching 600 locations across North America. As of today, and with a decrease in locations, CARSTAR currently operates under the DrivenBrands umbrella with 446 CARSTAR locations across North America.

What Is CARSTAR’s Business Model?

CARSTAR is an automobile collision repair brand. It services vehicles of any make or model, and offers ongoing training for its certified technicians to remain up to date on the latest technology and industry trends.

The services offered by CARSTAR include auto-collision repair, paintless dent repair, hail damage repair, fleet service and 24/7 accident assistance via a toll-free number. It also offers customers a national warranty and rental car assistance.

How Much Can CARSTAR Franchise Owners Make?

Based on the information given in the brand’s 2023 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), the median gross sales in 2022 for the bottom-performing 50% of locations was $1,544,199. The median gross sales for the top performing 50% of locations was $3,395,770.

How Much Does It Cost To Open a CARSTAR?

The total investment necessary to begin operation of a CARSTAR franchise ranges from $23,500 to $165,300. This includes a $10K franchise fee, as well as a $10K integration fee required of franchise owners who are purchasing their first location with the brand.

What Is the Franchise Fee for CARSTAR?

The initial franchise fee is $10K. This fee must be paid to the franchisor. Additionally, first-time franchise owners with the brand must also pay an additional $10K integration fee.

Who’s On CARSTAR’s Leadership Team?

What Helpful Articles Can I Read to Learn More About CARSTAR?

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