How to Finance an All Tune and Lube Franchise: $44K Fee and SBA
By Chris Cornella
An All Tune and Lube franchise loan typically funds a full-service auto repair shop: a leased building with service bays, lifts and diagnostic equipment, signs, a shop management system, opening inventory and a marketing budget for the first months. Because the brand publishes its 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) cost table and appears on the SBA Franchise Directory, buyers can build a detailed loan request from the start.
This article walks through the brand’s fees and investment range, its tiered royalty and marketing rules, how SBA 7(a) and other loans fit, what the SBA directory notes on leases and purchase options mean, and how lenders evaluate an auto repair franchise.
US Professional Funding is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by All Tune and Lube Total Car Care; the name is used only to describe the business. Figures from the franchisor’s disclosure document can change, loan programs and terms vary by lender and borrower, and every loan is subject to lender review and approval. Nothing here is legal, tax or investment advice, and buyers should review the current FDD and franchise agreement with a qualified franchise attorney and accountant.
All Tune and Lube Franchise Loan at a Glance
- Initial franchise fee: $44,000, with a 15% discount for qualified veterans, according to the franchisor.
- Estimated initial investment: $258,900 to $469,600, including the franchise fee, per the 2026 FDD figures the franchisor publishes.
- Royalty: 6.5% of gross sales up to $1 million, 6.0% from $1 million to $1.5 million and 5.5% above $1.5 million, with the tiers resetting each year; no royalty for the first 8 weeks of operation.
- Advertising: no national ad fund contribution; instead, a required local marketing spend.
- Liquid capital: $75,000 to $150,000, which the franchisor describes as about 30% of the estimated initial investment.
- Owner involvement: at least 30 hours per week; the franchisor says it is not a passive ownership model.
- Franchisor financing: none offered directly.
- SBA Franchise Directory: listed as All Tune Total Care / All Tune and Lube (code S0088), with notes on lease terms and purchase options.
What Is All Tune and Lube?
All Tune and Lube has served drivers since 1986, and the company describes itself as one of the longest-standing names in auto repair franchising. In May 2025 it rebranded as All Tune Total Car Care, unifying several earlier brand names into one identity, simplifying operations for franchisees and modernizing the system with new tools and a higher customer experience standard. Some center listings still use the All Tune and Lube name.
The Total Car Care model. Each center is an independently owned auto repair shop that handles both routine maintenance and major repairs. Service categories include maintenance, diagnostics and repair; brakes and safety; AC and heating; engine and transmission replacement; and fleet services, although the company notes that not every service is offered at every location. The franchisor says the average All Tune center has been open 10.2 years, according to its 2026 FDD.
Why lenders view it the way they do. Lenders generally understand auto repair: demand is driven by vehicles that need maintenance and repairs in any economy, and shop equipment holds some collateral value. They also know that results depend heavily on the owner’s ability to hire technicians and manage the shop, so the borrower’s management plan carries as much weight as the brand.
All Tune and Lube Franchise Costs
The franchisor publishes the Item 7 estimated initial investment from its 2026 FDD on its franchising site. The range depends on local market conditions, the site chosen and how the center is prepared for opening.
Initial franchise fee. The fee is $44,000. The franchisor offers qualified veterans 15% off; our article on veteran franchise financing explains how that can combine with other financing.
Real estate and build-out. Centers typically lease an existing automotive building. Item 7 estimates $11,500 to $39,000 for initial rent and deposits and $26,000 to $80,000 for real estate improvements and construction. A site that already has bays, lifts or proper drainage costs less to prepare than a conversion from another use.
Shop equipment, signs and technology. Item 7 lists $46,500 to $63,300 for shop equipment, $11,800 to $39,000 for signs and $15,100 to $18,800 for franchisee-managed computer systems.
Opening costs and working capital. Initial inventory, furniture and supplies, six months of grand opening advertising and insurance, and six months of additional funds round out the budget.
Total investment. According to the franchisor’s published 2026 FDD figures, the estimated initial investment is $258,900 to $469,600:
- Initial franchise fee: $44,000
- Initial training, including travel and lodging: $1,800 to $3,200
- Real estate, initial rent and deposits: $11,500 to $39,000
- Real estate improvements and construction: $26,000 to $80,000
- Shop equipment: $46,500 to $63,300
- Signs: $11,800 to $39,000
- Computer systems: $15,100 to $18,800
- Initial inventory: $8,700 to $12,600
- Furniture, supplies and miscellaneous opening costs: $13,500 to $24,700
- Grand opening advertising and promotion (6 months): $30,000 to $40,000
- Insurance (6 months): $5,000 to $15,000
- Additional funds (6 months): $45,000 to $90,000
Review the full Item 7 table and its footnotes in the current FDD, since each range rests on stated assumptions.
Ongoing Fees and How They Affect Your Loan
Tiered royalty. The royalty is 6.5% of gross sales up to $1 million, 6.0% from $1 million to $1.5 million and 5.5% above $1.5 million, billed weekly. The tiers reset each year. No royalty is due during the first 8 weeks of operation, which helps cash flow during the opening ramp.
Required local marketing. Instead of a national ad fund, owners must spend on local advertising: a required minimum during the first six months, which Item 7 estimates at $30,000 to $40,000 for that period, and then the greater of $2,500 or 5% of sales each month for the next 36 months. For 2026, the franchisor’s Marketing Match program contributes $15,000 toward the required spend in the first six months.
Other fees. Item 6 of the FDD lists any technology, training, transfer and renewal fees. Read them before you finalize projections.
How lenders factor fees into cash flow. Lenders deduct royalty and the required marketing spend before measuring debt service coverage. Because the marketing minimum is a floor in dollars, it weighs more heavily in early months when sales are still building, so projections should show it month by month.
Franchisor Requirements for New Owners
- Liquid capital: $75,000 to $150,000.
- Experience: auto repair experience is not required; the franchisor says some top owners started with none and that it provides training.
- Time commitment: at least 30 hours per week, especially in the first few years.
- Profile: owner-operators with a sales and service mindset.
The approval process. The franchisor describes five steps that typically take 6 to 8 weeks: an introductory call, discovery and FDD disclosure, validation and leadership discussions with existing owners, an in-person headquarters visit, and a mutual decision. It says opening typically takes 6 to 12 months from signing.
Ways to Own an All Tune and Lube
A new center. Most new owners lease a building, complete the build-out and open under the 2026 cost structure. Financing covers the full Item 7 budget, including six months of operating funds. Our auto repair start-up financing page explains how we approach new shops.
Buying an existing center. An All Tune and Lube franchise loan for a resale is often simpler to underwrite. With centers averaging more than a decade in operation, resales give buyers a shop with customers, staff and history. Lenders can underwrite actual results, and the franchisor must approve the transfer. See our auto repair business acquisition financing options.
Territories. The franchisor lists territories as available in 25 states and designates a protected area once a site is selected.
Financing Options for an All Tune and Lube Franchise
SBA 7(a) loans. Because the brand is on the SBA Franchise Directory, an SBA 7(a) loan can fund the franchise fee, build-out, equipment, signs, inventory and working capital in one loan, or finance an acquisition including goodwill.
SBA 504 loans. If an owner buys the building, an SBA 504 loan can finance the real estate and long-lived improvements. Read the directory notes below first, because they address franchise lease documents and purchase options when real estate secures an SBA loan.
Conventional term loans. Owners with strong credit and collateral, or existing owners adding a center, may use a conventional business loan.
Equipment financing. Lifts, alignment machines, diagnostic scan tools, tire machines, AC recovery units and air compressors can be financed separately. Learn more about auto repair equipment financing and leasing.
Working capital and lines of credit. Shops buy parts before customers pay, carry payroll for technicians and fund the required marketing minimum. A line of credit can smooth those timing gaps. See our auto repair working capital and lines of credit.
Seller financing on resales. A selling owner may carry part of the price. Any seller note is typically subordinate to the senior loan, and SBA program rules may limit its terms.
SBA Loans for All Tune and Lube Franchisees
SBA lenders generally require a franchise brand to appear on the SBA Franchise Directory before making an SBA-guaranteed loan to its franchisee. A listing does not approve any borrower; it clears the franchise relationship for review. Our article on SBA loans for auto repair shops covers the broader requirements.
The brand’s listing. The directory lists the brand as All Tune Total Care / All Tune and Lube (code S0088), with two notes:
- Lease Terms document. When the real estate where the franchise operates will secure the SBA-guaranteed loan, the franchisor’s Lease Terms document shall not be executed or should not apply. In plain English, if you own the building and pledge it to the SBA loan, the franchise lease provisions that would normally govern the site do not apply.
- Purchase option. The franchisor may not enforce a purchase option on real estate owned by the franchisee or an affiliate if that real estate secures the SBA loan. The lender’s collateral cannot be taken by the franchisor through an option to buy.
These notes matter most when an owner buys the building, often with SBA 504 or 7(a) real estate financing. Flag them to your lender early so the closing attorney can address them.
Program limits and tips. For an All Tune and Lube franchise loan under SBA 7(a), the program maximum is currently $5 million, though program rules can change. Prepare the FDD, franchise agreement, lease or purchase contract, equipment quotes, a business plan and personal financial documents. Our SBA loan calculator can help with early payment estimates, which are for planning only and are not an offer or approval.
How Lenders Evaluate an All Tune and Lube Deal
Personal credit and financial history. Lenders review credit, tax returns and a personal financial statement, and typically require a personal guarantee.
Net worth and liquidity. The franchisor’s $75,000 to $150,000 liquid capital range is a starting point for any All Tune and Lube franchise loan. Lenders also want reserves after closing.
Industry and management experience. Auto repair experience is not required by the franchisor, but lenders look for management experience and a plan to hire a qualified service manager and technicians.
Business plan and projections. Projections should follow the royalty tiers, the royalty-free first 8 weeks, the six-month marketing minimum and the $15,000 Marketing Match, technician payroll and parts cost. Our guide to a franchise business plan for an SBA loan covers what to include.
The FDD and franchise agreement. Lenders review Items 5, 6, 7, 10, 17 and 19, including term, renewal and transfer rules. The franchisor says it does not provide financing directly; confirm the details in Item 10.
Site and lease. Lenders want a lease term that covers the loan, permitted automotive use, environmental history for a former shop and adequate bays and parking.
Historical financials for resales. Expect to provide several years of profit and loss statements, tax returns and repair order history.
Equipment and Service Bays
A Total Car Care center needs lifts, diagnostic scan tools, alignment and tire equipment, AC service equipment, air compressors and hand tools, plus the shop management system and customer relationship software the franchisor provides. Item 7 estimates $46,500 to $63,300 for shop equipment, a range that depends on bay count and whether usable equipment comes with the site. Buyers of existing centers should have equipment inspected and plan replacements into the loan.
Multi-Unit Growth
An owner who succeeds with one center may add a second in a nearby protected area. Lenders underwrite the first center’s cash flow alongside the new projections and want a manager in place at the first shop. Each additional center requires the franchisor’s approval and its own franchise agreement.
Real-World Scenarios
A first-time owner with no shop experience. A former operations manager leases a building that was previously an auto repair shop, hires an experienced service manager and finances the Item 7 budget with an SBA 7(a) loan that includes the six months of operating funds.
A veteran opening a center. A qualified veteran uses the 15% franchise fee discount and finances the remaining startup costs with an SBA loan.
A buyer acquiring an established center. A buyer purchases a center from a retiring owner. The lender underwrites repair order history and the remaining lease term, and the seller carries a small subordinate note.
An owner buying the building. An owner buys the property under the center with real estate financing; the closing documents address the SBA directory notes on lease terms and purchase options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating the dollar minimum on local marketing during the opening months
- Choosing a site that needs heavy conversion work without budgeting the high end of Item 7
- Planning a passive investment when the franchisor requires at least 30 hours a week
- Opening without a qualified service manager or technician hiring plan
- Ignoring the SBA directory notes when buying or pledging real estate
For more pitfalls in this industry, read the auto repair shop loan mistakes that cost owners the most.
Next Steps to Finance Your All Tune and Lube Franchise
Step 1: Confirm you meet the requirements. Verify your liquid capital and that you can commit at least 30 hours a week.
Step 2: Complete discovery. Work through the introductory call, FDD review, owner validation and headquarters visit.
Step 3: Review the FDD with advisors. Study Items 5, 6, 7, 17 and 19 with a franchise attorney and accountant.
Step 4: Talk with a financing specialist. Learn how lenders will size the loan and how much equity they expect.
Step 5: Secure a site. Evaluate bays, zoning and environmental history, and negotiate a lease that fits the loan term.
Step 6: Apply and close. Submit your loan package and coordinate closing with the franchise agreement and build-out schedule.
All Tune and Lube Franchise Loan FAQs
How much does it cost to open an All Tune and Lube franchise?
According to the franchisor’s published 2026 FDD figures, the estimated initial investment is $258,900 to $469,600, including the $44,000 franchise fee.
What is the franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $44,000. Qualified veterans receive 15% off.
What royalty does All Tune charge?
6.5% of gross sales up to $1 million, 6.0% from $1 million to $1.5 million and 5.5% above $1.5 million, resetting each year, with no royalty for the first 8 weeks.
Is there an advertising fund?
No national ad fund contribution is required. Owners instead must spend a minimum on local marketing, then the greater of $2,500 or 5% of sales per month for 36 months.
How much liquid capital do I need?
The franchisor lists $75,000 to $150,000 in liquid capital.
Can I get an SBA loan for an All Tune and Lube franchise?
Yes, the brand is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory (code S0088), so eligible borrowers can apply for SBA financing, subject to lender approval and the directory notes.
Does All Tune offer financing?
No. The franchisor says it does not provide financing directly.
Do I need auto repair experience?
No. The franchisor says experience is not required and provides training, though lenders will want a plan for skilled technicians.
Can I finance equipment separately?
Yes. Lifts, diagnostic tools and other shop equipment can be financed separately from the main loan.
Can I buy an existing center?
Yes, with the franchisor’s approval. Lenders underwrite the center’s financial history and remaining lease term.
How long does it take to open?
The franchisor says opening typically takes 6 to 12 months from signing.
Does the FDD include financial performance information?
Review Item 19 of the current FDD to see whether it includes financial performance representations.
Final Thoughts
An All Tune and Lube franchise loan starts from a clear published budget, a tiered royalty and royalty-free opening weeks. Buyers who plan for the marketing minimum, technician hiring and the SBA directory notes on real estate put themselves in the strongest position with lenders.
US Professional Funding helps franchise owners finance startups, acquisitions, equipment and working capital. Learn more about our franchise financing and automotive care business financing solutions.
