Crude oil is the primary input for gasoline, but the path from barrel to pump includes refining costs, taxes, and distribution. A 10 dollar move in WTI typically translates to about 25 cents per gallon at the pump, with a 2-4 week lag.
The "crack spread" — the gap between refined gas price and crude cost — fluctuates with refining capacity, seasonal demand (summer driving season pushes it up), and inventory levels. During 2022, refining margins hit multi-decade highs as post-COVID demand outpaced refining capacity.
For consumers: if you see WTI rise 10 dollars per barrel, budget for a 25 cent per gallon increase over the next month. Gas stations pass through crude increases faster than decreases, so prices are "sticky" on the way down.