Motor oil may become more expensive and even scarce in the United States as the war in the Middle East pressures suppliers and worries drivers.

Written by Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Published on 19/05/2026 at 18:28

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Rapid increase in motor oil prices in the United States exposes dependence on Persian Gulf suppliers, pressures the automotive industry, and may affect drivers needing vehicle maintenance

Motor oil prices in the United States are rising and pressuring the automotive industry, with a warning of shortages after damage to facilities in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Shortage threatens automotive industry oils

Executives state that the shortage may force consumers to delay oil changes or use lower quality products. Holly Alfano, CEO of the Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association, told CNN that she foresees a shortage.

She stated that real relief could take about a year. The assessment reinforces concern about products used in newer vehicles in the United States.

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Global chain depends on the Persian Gulf

The adjustments are attributed to the rising cost of crude oil, base oils, additives, transportation, packaging, and logistics. ILMA also warns of an imminent shortage of low viscosity oils, including 0W-16, 0W-8, and 0W-20.

The 0W-20 is described as the most important lubricant oil in the market. Preferred for newer vehicles, it accounted for about one-third of the total demand for motor oil for passenger cars last year.

The fragility appears in Group III, an essential base oil in lubricant manufacturing. According to ILMA, 44% of this input comes from only three producers in the Persian Gulf, affected by the war and the closure of Hormuz.

Government and sector seek alternatives

Pearl GTL, in Qatar, the world’s largest GTL plant, was attacked and severely damaged, leaving an important supplier inoperative indefinitely. ILMA reported that the US is expected to run out of Group III crude oil by June.

Alfano said there are informal reports of shortages in parts of the United States and that the sector is in talks with the Department of Energy. The White House stated it is working with companies to assess actions and policy decisions.

Valvoline reported having sufficient supply in the short term. The API activated provisional emergency licensing for alternative suppliers. According to Glenn, solutions may include higher viscosity, new change intervals, and the use of Group II by the automotive industry.

Motor oil may become more expensive and even scarce in the United States as the war in the Middle East pressures suppliers and worries drivers.

Rapid increase in motor oil prices in the United States exposes dependence on Persian Gulf suppliers, pressures the automotive industry, and may affect drivers needing vehicle maintenance

Shortage threatens automotive industry oils

Global chain depends on the Persian Gulf

Government and sector seek alternatives

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Motor oil may become more expensive and even scarce in the United States as the war in the Middle East pressures suppliers and worries drivers.

Rapid increase in motor oil prices in the United States exposes dependence on Persian Gulf suppliers, pressures the automotive industry, and may affect drivers needing vehicle maintenance

Shortage threatens automotive industry oils

Global chain depends on the Persian Gulf

Government and sector seek alternatives

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