Blog - DeBoer's Sussex County New Jersey Expert Auto Service and Repair Blog

Global Market Updates & Our Commitment to Quality

Written by Tina Ormond | Jun 2, 2026 3:41:34 PM

To our valued customers and neighbors here in Hamburg, New Jersey—

We wanted to take a few moments to sit down and have an open, honest conversation with you about something that every single one of us is feeling right now. If you have been to the gas station recently, you already know the story. We are all feeling a pretty heavy pinch at the pump whenever we go to fill up our tanks. Unfortunately, the economic ripple effects of that pinch don’t stop at the gas station. They are trickling out to the entire automotive industry, impacting oil suppliers and, ultimately, local service shops like ours.

We believe in absolute transparency with the DeBoer's Auto family. Because of that, we want to peel back the curtain a bit and explain exactly what is happening in the global market, how it affects your vehicle, and what we are doing to navigate it together while keeping your life uninterrupted.

The Hidden Science of Modern Motor Oil: Understanding "Group 3"

When global events and conflicts beyond our control occur outside of the United States, most of us understand the immediate result: crude oil prices go up. What is less commonly known, however, is the specific impact this has on the highly specialized products required to keep modern vehicles running safely. It isn't just about raw crude oil anymore; it is about a very specific component known as Group 3-base oils.

Right now, the global supply of Group 3-base oils has taken a remarkably hard hit. To understand why this matters so much to your vehicle, it helps to understand what these oils actually do:

  • The Backbone of Synthetic Oil: Group 3-base oils are hydrocarbon mineral oils that undergo an intense refining process. This process creates the highly stable, high-performance foundation required to produce the fully synthetic motor oils that modern-day vehicles demand.
  • Widespread Automotive Use: These base oils aren't just used in your engine. They are the essential backbone for up to and including your vehicle's gear oils, transmission fluids, and even certain specialized coolant formulations.

Because the vast majority of premium, fully synthetic oils used in the United States rely entirely on Group 3-base oils, a severe shortage or price spike in this raw material directly creates a shortage and increased cost for the finished product.

Why You Might See a Shift at Our Service Center

Because the sustained rise in product costs has made an adjustment necessary, you may notice some increased pricing on services that require these Group 3-base oils—most notably, our standard oil change service and our gear oil services.

We held off on making this change for as long as we possibly could, absorbing the rising costs on our end. However, in order for us to continue servicing you in a way that allows us to deliver the premium quality you expect—while ensuring we stay in business to serve you for years to come—we have to make these small adjustments. We never want to surprise you, so we encourage you to keep an eye out for these shifts moving forward.

What is NEVER Changing at DeBoer’s Auto

While the numbers on the invoice might adjust slightly to reflect the real-world market, we want to be crystal clear about what is not changing here at DeBoer’s Auto: our unwavering commitment to quality and the unique value we provide to you.

We refuse to cut corners. We will never switch to inferior, low-grade products just to save a buck, because your safety and your vehicle's longevity are worth too much to us. We are still going to provide you with the exact same gold-standard care that we have built our reputation on right here in Hamburg.

When you bring your vehicle to DeBoer's Auto, you aren't just paying for an oil change; you are investing in a premium, stress-free experience. We are proud to continue offering the unique benefits that set us apart:

  • Complimentary, Safe Loaner Vehicles so your day doesn't have to pause just because your car is in the shop.
  • Convenient 24/7 Access for vehicle drop-offs and pickups, fitting perfectly into your busy schedule.
  • The Best Customer Service in the Area delivered by a team of highly trained technicians who truly care about your peace of mind.

Yes, We Still Honor Your Coupons!

We know that every dollar counts right now. If you have a DeBoer’s Auto coupon, please bring it in! Even though our baseline prices are seeing a necessary increase, we still absolutely honor the full amount that your coupons represent so that you can find meaningful savings on your visit.

We are incredibly grateful for your trust, your understanding, and your continued support as we navigate these global market shifts together. Our mission remains exactly the same as it has always been: to provide you with honest, reliable service and help you live your life uninterrupted.

If you have any questions at all about these market changes or your upcoming service, please don't hesitate to give us a call. We are always happy to talk. Ready for your next maintenance check? Click below to schedule your appointment today!