Auto Lab vs CARSTAR
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Auto Lab and CARSTAR are automotive franchises. Auto Lab requires an investment of $297K – $746K while CARSTAR requires $298K – $804K. In terms of revenue, CARSTAR reports higher average unit revenue at $3.2M. CARSTAR has SBA lending data on file with a 0.0% charge-off rate. FranchiseVerdict rates Auto Lab B (Above average) and CARSTAR A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | Auto Lab | CARSTAR |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | BAbove averageAbove average | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $297K – $746K | $298K – $804K |
| Franchise Fee | $28K | $10K |
| Royalty Rate | 6.0% | 1.5% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $970KOutlet subset | $3.2M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | Limited data | 0.0% (40 loans) |
| Total Units | 19 | 471 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | +2 units | +16 units |
| Year Began Franchising | 2012 | 1989 |
| FDD Year | 2025 | 2025 |
Investment Range
$297K – $746K
$298K – $804K
Franchise Fee
$28K
$10K
Royalty Rate
6.0%
1.5%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$970KOutlet subset
$3.2M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
Limited data
0.0% (40 loans)
Total Units
19
471
Unit Growth (YoY)
+2 units
+16 units
Year Began Franchising
2012
1989
FDD Year
2025
2025