GADSDEN, Ala. (WBRC) – The Iran war could soon impact motor oil supply, leading to higher oil change costs on top of rising gas prices, according to experts.
Maintenance shop owners in Gadsden say they are doing everything they can to work with customers despite spending more. City leaders are now looking at their bottom line as well.
According to a recent USA Today article, the country could be getting close to a shortage of motor oil. With hundreds of vehicles the City of Gadsden maintains and operates, a shortage of motor oil could disrupt operations.
Iran war could spark motor oil shortage
“We have our Fleet Management Department and Fleet Management, we have a reserve of oil and other fluids that we need to keep the city running, and so with that kind of stockpile it gives us a lot of cushion,” said Michael Rogers.
Independent maintenance shops have less cushion. With less oil coming into the country, low grade oils all the way up to synthetic oil prices are more expensive.
“I know it’s killing oil changes. I use to get 55-gallon drums of full synthetic for $300 or $400 bucks; do an oil change for $65-dollars. About a week ago I called to get a 55-gallon drum of full synthetic 0-20; it’s up to $1,000,” said Chris Harp at A&C Auto Repair in Attalla.
While the focus has been on rising gas prices, vehicles depend on motor oil. With shops spending more, customers can expect to see an increase in oil change prices going forward.
Different Types of Motor Oil(reggie kyle)
“Your $65-dollar oil changes are going to be jumping up to $85-$90-dollars. It’s not because we’re trying to rip you off because we’re really not going to be making anything on it. We’re going to be just about cutting even on oil changes just to get you taken care of,” said Harp.
Rogers said the City of Gadsden has budgeted for fluctuating oil and gas prices. Harp said they are watching every penny and spending as needed.
“Even if there was a supply shortage it would be a long time before that affected us,” said Rogers.
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