Second Automaker Raises Concern Over Decreasing Motor Oil Supply [UPDATE]

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      On Wednesday, we covered a service bulletin reportedly issued to Toyota service departments regarding the rationing of motor oil supplies due to an anticipated shortage. On Thursday, a source provided us with a similar bulletin prepared by Nissan in preparation for a similar supply issue—and an associated price increase for service departments.

      A representative from Nissan confirmed to The Drive that the bulletin is genuine, but stated it has not yet been sent to Nissan’s dealer network.

      “Nissan is actively monitoring the current constraints in oil supply in partnership with our suppliers,” the representative stated in an emailed message. “We remain dedicated to supporting our dealerships and ensuring a high level of service for our customers.”

      The bulletin is a single page and includes a draft for communicating with customers. The “why” section notably indicates that the supply shortage is affecting all vehicle manufacturers, not just Nissan.

      “We are providing an important update concerning the availability of engine oil products across the Nissan network in the U.S.,” the bulletin states.

      “Due to ongoing global supply issues affecting essential raw materials and refining inputs due to the conflict in the Middle East, we have been informed of decreased production capacity for most lubricant products. Therefore, Nissan will be implementing the following changes, effective May 1, 2026.”

      “– The allocation of Nissan Genuine Oil (including Mobil and Mobil 1 variants) will be limited and regulated at a 55% year-over-year level based on gallons purchased. – Both Bulk and Packaged Genuine Nissan oil supply will be capped at 55% of previous year volumes on a year-over-year basis.” (All emphasis original.)

      The bulletin also refers to a “supplier-driven price adjustment” of an unspecified amount, but clarifies that dealers aren't obligated to pay Nissan’s supplier price for bulk oil; they can procure it from any source they prefer. However, any authorized service must utilize a Nissan-approved (though not necessarily Nissan-sourced) lubricant.

      Since the May 1 deadline has already passed and Nissan has not distributed the memo, it suggests that the situation has not deteriorated significantly yet. That said, the prospect of a 45% reduction in supply compared to last year is certainly concerning.

      A Nissan bulletin and FAQ shared with us by an online informant.

      Nowadays, numerous engines require synthetic or at least partially synthetic (blended) motor oil. Considering that the current geopolitical situation primarily involves traditional, fossil-derived crude, it may initially seem curious that this shortage affects motor oils. So, what’s the explanation? In a word, base stock.

      Yes, that's two words, although sometimes it appears as one. Whether referred to as basestock or base stock, it essentially describes what it sounds like. Here’s a brief explanation from ExxonMobil, a small yet influential oil company:

      “Base stocks are the fundamental components of lubricants and greases. A base stock is a single lubricant component made by a single manufacturer,” the company explains. “ExxonMobil produces and supplies these, which oil marketers or formulators mix to create the finished products.”

      In simpler terms, if motor oil is likened to soup, the base stock would be the broth. It turns out that “synthetic” base stock is not always man-made. Depending on the supplier, your “synthetic” oil may not be entirely synthetic, as it needs to meet the qualifications for that formulation where it’s sold. Again, ExxonMobil clarifies:

      “There is no universally accepted definition of a synthetic base stock or synthetic base oil. In the U.S., the government considers ‘synthetic’ to be a marketing term that characterizes the formulated lubricant, while in Germany, synthetic base stocks are legally defined as polyalphaolefins or esters.”

      “Many oil marketers classify lubricants created with substantial amounts of Group IV and/or Group III base stocks as synthetic. The majority of Group III base stocks are refined from crude oil sources.” (Emphasis added.)

      A practical solution would be for motor oil manufacturers to revert to using synthetic base stock, which might alleviate the shortage, but it may not reduce costs. If traditional oil was already refined for use as a “synthetic” base, it was likely cheaper than any human-made alternative. This doesn’t bode well for summer road trip plans. If you’re due for an oil change, it may be wise not to delay.

      Update 5/14/2026, 8:20 PM ET: This article has been updated with a revised statement from Nissan and to clarify the nature of the bulletin itself.

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