Toyota and Nissan are alerting U.S. dealerships to potential shortages of 0W-8 and 0W-16 synthetic motor oils.
Petrochemical supply chain disruptions limit the specialized base-stock materials required for production.
The automakers discussed temporary inventory management measures with dealers.
These measures permit the short-term use of heavier oil grades for certain vehicles.
Toyota emphasized these substitutions are temporary and exclude permanent maintenance changes.
The shortage could challenge service department profitability.
The situation requires clear customer communication regarding lubricant substitutions.