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War & Conflict1h 26m ago

The cost of lubricants, particularly synthetic motor oil base oil, has more than tripled to record levels since the start of the war in Iran.

United States, Middle East, Strait of Hormuz, Qatar, South Korea, Poolesville, Md., Sonoita, Ariz.

Who
Amanda Hay (analyst with Independent Commodity Intelligence Services), Holly Alfano (CEO of the Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association), Nathan Matheson (owner of Nathan's Small Engine Repair and Automotive Services), Onur Azeri (manager of a specialty mechanic shop)
What
The cost of lubricants, particularly synthetic motor oil base oil, has more than tripled to record levels since the start of the war in Iran.
When
Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:29:02 GMT · 1h 26m ago
Where
United States, Middle East, Strait of Hormuz, Qatar, South Korea, Poolesville, Md., Sonoita, Ariz. ·
Why
The war in Iran has disrupted trade through the Strait of Hormuz and led to damage at the world's largest facility producing Group III base oil, the Shell Pearl GTL plant in Qatar, which was hit by an Iranian missile in March.
The Frontline Impact

How this affects you

The rising cost of base oil, essential for synthetic motor oil, is making oil changes more expensive for U.S. drivers and impacting mechanics, with an expected continued supply squeeze and higher prices into next year due to ongoing disruptions and production choices.

Story chain

2 events in this thread
  1. Currently Reading1h 26m ago
    The cost of lubricants, particularly synthetic motor oil base oil, has more than tripled to record levels since the start of the war in Iran.
  2. War & Conflict1h 26m ago
    The price of the base oil used to blend widely-used synthetic motor oil has "more than tripled to record levels" since the start of the war in Iran.
    Open article

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