Costco Rations Motor Oil Amid Global Supply Shortages

Costco has started rationing its motor oil supplies and increasing prices in response to supply shortages caused by the Iran-U.S. War and the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, which have disrupted oil imports to the U.S.

The warehouse club chain has set a limit on how many cases members can purchase per week, with a maximum of 2 units every 7 days, according to its website.

Costco also increased the price of its 10-quart case of Kirkland Signature full-synthetic motor oil from around $30 to $58. The higher cost applies to both the SAE 5W-30 and high mileage versions of the lubricant.

The price change was reported by automotive publications, including The Auto Wire and The Drive, as early as Sept. 10, with some outlets noting that the new prices make DIY oil changes more expensive than taking it to a professional shop.