Some of the best diesel fuel additives come with a vast range of benefits. They include a cleaner engine and a cleaner fuel system. But they can also include benefits such as increased horsepower and reduced diesel emissions. Some of the more specialized fuel additives deal with a notorious diesel engine problem which is starting the engine in cold weather. These additives can actually prevent diesel from gelling.
But some of the most popular benefits to using diesel fuel additives actually come with cleaning and lubricating the fuel system. Injectors can often encounter notorious problems in diesel engines. This is where the diesel fuel additives can prove specifically useful.
- Features to Consider in Good Diesel Fuel Additives
- Top 10 Best Diesel Fuel Additives 2024
- 1. Lucas 128 Ounces LUC10013 10013 Fuel Treatment
- 2. Royal Purple Max-Clean Fuel System Cleaner and Stabilizer
- 3. Archoil AR6200 (8oz) Fuel Treatment
- 4. Howes Diesel Treat Diesel Conditioner and Anti-Gel
- 5. STA-BIL 360° Performance with Vapor Technology
- 6. Opti-Lube XPD All Seasons Diesel Fuel Additive
- 7. Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme Clean and Boost
- 8. Stanadyne Performance Formula Diesel Fuel Additive
- 9. Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost
- 10. Schaeffer Manufacturing Diesel Treat
- FAQ
- Guide to Buying the Best Diesel Fuel Additives
- Final considerations
Features to Consider in Good Diesel Fuel Additives
The best diesel fuel additives rarely need too much time to show their true potential. The good news is that some of the best fuel additives of the moment are not too expensive either. For most drivers, it is an actual opportunity to take better care of a vehicle’s engines at an affordable price.
Cleaning injectors
Cleaning the injectors is one of the top three priorities of diesel fuel additives. As car owner knows, especially older generation diesel engines tend to have problems with injectors at some point. It is worth having a look at the way they all work together from time to time and adding additives can help as well.
Added miles per gallon
Another important aspect comes with the fact that additives can actually improve fuel consumption. As diesel is burned more efficiently, the engines can start running at an optimized rate. Of course, the difference might be small, but they can be proven by simple measurements.
Corrosion protection
Another important benefit of using diesel additives comes with the corrosion protection of the engine. It is why some older cars can benefit from additives which is why service intervals are often scheduled at a longer distance apart when the diesel with additives is used on a daily basis. The following products are known for some of these benefits and they even come with some of their own.
Top 10 Best Diesel Fuel Additives 2024
1. Lucas 128 Ounces LUC10013 10013 Fuel Treatment
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Design Features
The fuel additive is available in 1-gallon versions only. It is added directly to the fuel tank either at home or at the gas station. There is no special procedure to worry about as it can be used similarly to all types of fuel additives. For convenience purposes, it is easier to carry and it represents a fuel additive which can be stored in the trunk and added when and if needed.
So when is the fuel additive used? Lucas recommends added the additive to vehicles which require leaded fuel. It then acts as leaded fuel. This results in lower emissions and most importantly, it neutralizes the effects of low sulfur diesel. Of course, this should be done on a constant basis and it proves to be a more affordable method of fueling the care than compared to leaded fuel use. Of course, some drivers only use this method to pass emissions tests, which is still doable as the additive doesn’t need to be used for a minimum period of time.
Convenient Features
One of the most convenient features of the additive apart from neutralizing low sulfur issue is the fact that it manages to clean and lubricate the entire fuel system. In some cars, this may even result in more power. It is known that some engines run better on premium fuel with additives. As a result, the life of the fuel pump and the life of the injectors is increased.
Another interesting benefit to using the fuel comes with a smoother running engine. Many drivers immediately notice just how efficient the additive is in the way the engine idles. Some famous knocking issue can be dealt with simply by using the quality diesel fuel additive.
One of the few drawbacks of the product is that it has a strong formulation which can stain the vehicle’s interior. It should always be stored in an upright position to avoid spills. At the same time, it’s also worth noting the diesel fuel additive may not be needed in the car at all times. Some drivers even pour it in smaller bottles which are more practical to live with every day.
Verdict
With benefits to fuel consumption, engine idling and cleaner injectors, Lucas’ diesel fuel additive is a top product for powerful engines.
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Cleans fuel pump and injectors
- Improves fuel consumption
- Betters engine idling
Cons
- May stain the car with accidental spills
2. Royal Purple Max-Clean Fuel System Cleaner and Stabilizer
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Cleaning Action
One of the things that really makes this cleaner stand out is that it works on both gas and diesel engines equally well. In both cases, it is able to effectively remove the debris from the internal systems of the cars quickly and efficiently. This is a good cleaner to turn to if you have been using fuel that doesn’t have the highest quality and you are experiencing the repercussions of this.
Another interesting aspect of this fuel system cleaner is that it also doubles as a stabilizer. So, if your vehicle is going to be idle for a while, this is a good product to add to the fuel. It will ensure that there are no problems when you start driving it again.
Performance Improvement
You are certainly going to be able to see an improvement in your vehicle’s performance. It has been found that this cleaner is able to increase your horsepower up to about 2.6 percent. So, not only will you be able to drive more smoothly, you will also be able to experience an increase in power and speed.
Just as useful is the fact that you will find your car isn’t using up as much fuel as it did before. This is because this product has the ability to improve fuel efficiency up to 3.2 percent. This can make all the difference if you tend to drive a lot.
The unfortunate thing, however, is that many of these changes are temporary. You need to use this product quite often to be able to see continuous results.
Value
On a similar note, the value with this cleaner isn’t great. This is because a 12-ounce bottle will be able to treat only about 20 gallons.
Pros
- Deep cleans engine components
- Stabilizes fuel
- Increases horsepower
- Improves fuel efficiency
Cons
- Performance improvements are temporary
- Doesn’t offer great value
3. Archoil AR6200 (8oz) Fuel Treatment
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Design Features
With an 8oz bottle, the additive can be mixed with 250 gallons of diesel. It is available in a practical container which ensures a good grip. This design characteristic also recommends it for those who might want to avoid spills on the car which can damage the paint if done on a continuous basis.
For storage purposes, the diesel fuel additive can be kept in any location. But it is highly advisable to have it inside the vehicle to use whenever stopping at a gas station. At the same time, the additive can be mixed with diesel which is kept in storage.
Convenient Features
One of the first benefits of the additive is that it promotes a more complete fuel burn. As a result, the way the engine runs is optimized. A better fuel burn also leads to fewer emissions. Diesel engines are notorious for their high emissions and having an improvement of even just a few percentages can make the difference.
Another problem diesel engines are known for is the DPF filter. This filter is known for its reduced frequency and regeneration time when diesel fuel additive is added. It also leads to better fuel efficiency. For many vehicles, replacing DPF filters can be a costly operation. It can put a lot of financial pressure on some drivers and having it in good condition might be worth using the additive even as a sole benefit.
Combating corrosion and microbial growth in the fuel tank is one of the main reasons to consider the fuel additive. Even with the latest diesel engines, the additive is simply a worthy choice when it comes to proper efficiency. Water separators and filters are specifically prone to such issue, as is the inside of the fuel tank.
Eliminating sludge and varnish from the fuel system also leads to a more stable fuel. The additive is known to act as an engine detergent and this is why so many drivers are considering it for their own benefit.
Verdict
Improving the way an engine runs, protecting the DPF filter and fighting the water in fuel damage, the additive is one of the complex formulas for all types of old and new diesel engines.
Pros
- Reduced carbon deposits
- Protects against corrosion and water damage
- Prevents microbial growth in the fuel tank
- Ensure a more complete burn
Cons
- Not the most affordable additive
4. Howes Diesel Treat Diesel Conditioner and Anti-Gel
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Design Features
There are not many diesel fuel additives made for cold weather engine protection and performance. But Howes’ Diesel Treat is one of the few products which offer such a distinct formulation. There is not too much about the design of the product for benefits as it is about the formulation of the product. Even so, the product comes in a clear plastic bottle so drivers always know the amount of additive left. At 19.9l, it is also one of the larger bottles and why it can be suitable for all types of diesel engines.
Convenient Features
The anti-gel performance ensures great engine start from cold. But the additive is as versatile as diesel drivers would expect from such products. One of its main benefits is that it removes water from the diesel. Too much water is known to create engine problems and even enhance corrosion.
Another benefit to the additive comes with improved engine performance. It is not just about the way the engine starts first thing in the morning as it is about how it runs through the day. As with most diesel additive, idling is improved and most drivers report smoother engine run. Furthermore, it is also advisable to consider the versatility of the additive as it can also be used in biodiesel fuels.
Improved fuel efficiency is also noted by some drivers. Of course, the difference is very small and it might require precise measurements to determine. But it is believed the additive can save a few percentages and improve the running costs of a diesel vehicle.
Another distinct advantage of the additive is that it prevents diesel from gelling. This is suitable both for the colder months of the year and for the fuel which is kept in storage. A few drivers living in remote locations might find this as an important benefit, especially when buying diesel in bulk.
Verdict
With a distinct anti-gel formulation, the additive is recommended for colder weather and for proper diesel storage.
Pros
- Made with an anti-gel profile
- Prevents corrosion
- Improves fuel efficiency
- Prevents fuel from gelling
Cons
- Available in 64oz only
5. STA-BIL 360° Performance with Vapor Technology
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Design Features
With a distinct formulation, the diesel fuel additive is one of the most interesting solutions for drivers to consider. It comes in a practical bottle which can be used as often as needed to pour the additive directly in the fuel tank.
Even more, it is highly recommended for its medium-size 946ml bottle which can be stored in the trunk easily. Compared to many other larger diesel fuel additive containers, it doesn’t need to be separated in multiple bottles. Even more, 4 ounce 8-packs are also available.
Convenient Features
One of the distinct characteristics of the additive is that it works with a vapor formulation. So while it benefits the areas below the fuel line, it also benefits areas above this line. As a result, it is one of the best solutions to help prevent corrosion.
Of course, preventing corrosion should be a priority for new and old vehicles. But some of the older cars on the road may benefit from this formulation a bit more. The fuel additive helps remove water and this is why it can be one of the formulas to help keep corrosion away.
Another benefit of the diesel fuel additive is the fact that it helps clean the engine. These products are often seen as cleansers as a group and this is why they can help maintain diesel engines in better shape. At the same time, it can even prevent ethanol fuel-related damage to the diesel engine, offering a premium fuel even mixed with non-additive formulas.
Another benefit to having stable diesel is with diesel storage. For this purpose, it is important to note that some drivers might even consider storing pre-mixed diesel fuel at home. This way, they would not need to carry the diesel fuel additive in the vehicle.
Verdict
With a distinct vapor formula, the diesel fuel additive scores highly for corrosion prevention and ethanol damage.
Pros
- Prevents engine corrosion
- Fights ethanol fuel-related damage
- Stabilizes diesel for storage
- Cleans the fuel system
Cons
- Mainly valuable in the 32ounce version
6. Opti-Lube XPD All Seasons Diesel Fuel Additive
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Design Features
Made with a complex formula, the fuel additive is one of the most sensible solutions to be used in all types of cars. It is shipped in a plastic container with an integrated handle so that it is easy to pour. At a capacity of 1 gallon, the fuel additive is mainly suited for various types of vehicles. From compacts to SUVs, it can meet the needs of all diesel engines.
Its formula is suitable for both old and new diesel engines. If drivers don’t want to spend the extra money for premium diesel, they can consider the additive as one of the only other options for optimum engine performance.
Convenient Features
One of the convenient features of the additive comes with improved lubrication. As a result, the engine becomes smoother and it also runs better. For many drivers, it can be one of the distinct products to consider reducing pining and the vibrations specific to diesel engines.
Increased power has also been noted by a number of drivers. Since the engine runs smoother, the acceleration response is also prompt, compared to diesel fuel with no additives. Along the same lines, the improved fuel economy plays its part as well. All vehicles could potentially benefit from this positive aspect and most drivers say they see better fuel economy within the first days of adding the product in their fuel tank.
With better water separation, there are not as many reasons to worry about corrosion. Furthermore, a diesel fuel additive is suitable for both cold and warm weather performance. In many cases, it represents one of the distinct benefits with instant spark response.
The winter formulation also means that the additive reacts with the wax molecules in the fuel. It prevents them from stacking and gelling. This is why the product may also be considered for storage purpose.
Verdict
With distinct benefits in the area of cold and warm weather performance, the practical additive is suitable for all diesel engines.
Pros
- Prevents wax molecule stacking
- Reduced fuel consumption
- Improves water separation
- Benefits vehicle acceleration response
Cons
- Not available in smaller containers
7. Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme Clean and Boost
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Design Features
Unlike many of its alternatives, the fuel additive comes in small plastic containers. It represents a simple and efficient solution which is used for proper diesel engine management. Its cleaning action is based on a 32oz plastic bottle with a practical compact design.
The additive is added directly to the fuel tank and it is among the simplest and most efficient solutions for improved engine performance, black smoke reduction, poor fuel mileage, and an unresponsive throttle.
Convenient Features
Since it maintains clean cylinders and clean lines, the fuel additive is one of the recommended products to restore the cleanliness of the fuel system. It can also be used as a preventive measure to ensure that the fuel system is actually not leading to black smoke issues.
Another distinct action of the additive comes with better fuel performance. It is known that diesel engines are more economical than gasoline engines but there are reasons to consider an even lower diesel fuel consumption. Those traveling a lot of miles on the highway are usually the ones looking for a more affordable method of keeping vehicle running costs lower.
The throttle response is considerably improved by the additive. Furthermore, many drivers see the improved acceleration results as soon as they add the additive to the fuel. It should not take more than a couple of stops at the gas station to start seeing results if the additive is mixed with regular diesel.
Dispersing moisture efficiently, the additive is also among the top products to fight corrosion. Simply ensuring water is not damaging the engine and the fuel system can be a good reason to consider the diesel additive.
Verdict
The product’s first benefit is its restored throttle response, making it valuable for city cars.
Pros
- Reduced black smoke
- Improves fuel consumption
- Handles unresponsive throttles
- Used in 16oz per 30-40 gal of diesel
Cons
- Only available in 32oz bottles
8. Stanadyne Performance Formula Diesel Fuel Additive
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Design Features
Available in a practical set of 16oz case of 12, the fuel additive is very easy to handle. Drivers can simply add it to their fuel tanks without too much effort. At the same time, they don’t need to carry all of the bottles inside the car, which can only mean there’s one problem less to worry about. At the same time, the quality of the formula is impressive as well. Made by a brand which understands fuel injectors, it can be used even on new vehicles.
Convenient Features
Some of the most convenient features of the diesel fuel additive include its capacity to clean the engine and its capacity to improve idling. It is why so many drivers report a more efficient engine performance. A cleaner engine and cleaner injectors also mean the engine can last longer.
But at the same time, all famous diesel problems which can occur due to low-quality fuel are dealt with by the additive. This is why drivers have the freedom to choose the products which work best for the engine even if not really using the best diesel fuel. At the same time, the fuel used in the vehicle should still be the one recommended in the car’s owner manual as the additive is only a supplement to fuel.
The all-season formulation also means the fuel additive can be used in different weather conditions. In the summer and in the winter, it helps the car start better and run better.
Verdict
Packaged in distinct small bottles, the fuel additive is recommended for its practical nature.
Pros
- Fights common diesel engine fuel-related issues
- Suitable for all seasons
- Conveniently packaged
- Approved by GM and Ford
Cons
- Not all bottles have see-through materials
9. Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost
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Design Features
Made for some of the largest diesel engines on the roads, the cetane-boosting formula is easy to use. Its 80oz container can be used on 250gallons or 2.365 liters of diesel. This makes it one of the most efficient formulas in its class.
The money-saving profile of the diesel fuel additive is why it can be one of the recommended products for larger diesel engines which are known to come with higher fuel consumption.
Convenient Features
There are many problems diesel fuel additives can deal with. Since not all of them are actually known to drivers, it’s worth noting they are not only limited to bettering fuel consumption. In fact, the diesel fuel additive is also known for cleaning the engine and this is why it can be one of the most powerful formulas in its class.
Running smoothly in low winter temperatures, the fuel additive prevents gelling and it can be one of the first go-to products for those living at a higher altitude as well. With cleaner injectors, it will maintain the same improved engine performance even during the winter.
Verdict
With improved fuel economy up to 8%, the fuel additive is among the top products for daily use on large diesel engines.
Pros
- Easy to use on a daily basis
- Stabilizes all types of diesel
- Mixes up to 250 gallons of diesel
- Suitable for maximum engine lubrication with Slickdiesel
Cons
- Available in 80z only
10. Schaeffer Manufacturing Diesel Treat
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Design Features
Shipped in 16oz bottles, the diesel fuel additive is one of the most distinct options in its class. While many products are made to offer all-around performance, the Schaeffer Manufacturing Diesel Treat is actually optimized for winter performance. Of course, it can be used during the summer as well, but it is made to prevent wax molecule stacking during low temperatures.
Convenient Features
Made with SynbShield Lubricity Technology, the diesel fuel additive is one of the leading products in its class for low-temperature performance. It ensures proper engine lubrication. As a result, all types of diesel engines will actually run better. Furthermore, the diesel fuel additive is one of the most reliable products for those seeking improved fuel economy.
The de-icer non-alcohol formula of the diesel fuel additive also means the product is recommended for high altitudes where temperatures are lower for the entire duration of the year. While it can be used in any types of diesel, it shows top results on low sulfur and biodiesel blends.
Verdict
The low-temperature performance of the product recommends it for peak engine performance during the winter.
Pros
- Made with SynShield lubricity technology
- Shows best results with low sulfur diesel
- Non-alcohol de-icer formula
- Used in ratios of 2oz per 15gal
Cons
- Limited fuel economy during very low temperatures
FAQ
Can I use diesel fuel additives on my vehicle?
Diesel fuel additives can be used on all diesel engines. However, some of the best results and return on investment are actually seen with low sulfur diesel.
How much additive to I need to add?
The exact quantity of additive differs from product to product. Before adding it to the fuel tank for the first time, drivers should carefully read the instructions for the exact ratio of additive to diesel.
Do I need to use diesel fuel additive during the summer?
Some diesel fuel additives are made for wintertime performance. But there plenty of diesel fuel additives which can also be used during the rest of the year.
Can I see better fuel economy during the winter?
It is known that cars typically need more fuel during the winter. Starting the engine from cold and using the heating system can lead to higher fuel consumption. However, even under these circumstances fuel economy can still be visible during the winter.
What is corrosion and why it affects my engine?
Corrosion is boosted by water, weather conditions, etc. There are reasons to believe corrosion is also among the most popular problems diesel engines face. Managing water more efficiently is one of the attributes of fuel additives.
What is the idle engine running?
Idle engine running might one of the parameters easy to diagnose when adding additives to diesel fuel. Simply put, drivers should see a smoother engine performance when the engine is idling.
Choosing the best diesel fuel additive is often a matter of trying out different products. At the same time, some of the best diesel fuel additives show similar benefits on most diesel engines, regardless of their capacity. Here are a few basic guidelines for an informed decision.
Guide to Buying the Best Diesel Fuel Additives
Quantity of additive needed per fuel tank
The quantity of additive needed for a full tank of diesel can vary. A bottle of diesel fuel additive can often serve up to 250 gallons of diesel. This is why it can certainly be one of the most pressing issues when it comes to the overall price for the month. In general terms, it is still more affordable to purchase fuel additives, especially in bulk, then purchasing premium diesel at the gas station. Given the additives can serve hundreds of liters of diesel, the saving can be considering.
But there are other savings to consider as well. They include those with lower fuel consumption as a result of the added additive. Furthermore, savings can continue with longer engine life and better corrosion resistance.
Types of diesel issues to handle
There are a few notorious diesel issues drivers usually want to fix using fuel additives. One of them is the loss of acceleration power with poor quality diesel. Another issue to consider is the smooth performance of the engine which can suffer. It can easily be heard and felt when the engine is idling. Other issues might include the cleaning process of the fuel system which can suffer. One of the most pressing issues from this perspective is the DPF filter, which notoriously gets clogged after a number of miles.
Some fuel additives can fix a number of these issues. Others can tackle all of them at once. Furthermore, other benefits can also include an enhance wintertime performance. But most of the additives today are actually made to tackle these issue first hand.
Winter diesel fuel additives and their role
Winter diesel fuel additives have their time and place. Since the wax particles in the diesel can actually gel up over a longer period out in the cold, fuel additives can prevent his from happening. Suitable both for in-car diesel and for diesel in storage, additives can keep diesel in good working order even during the colder months of the year.
Some high altitude areas of the country can suffer from this type of problem as well, not even necessarily during the winter. One of the benefits often recalled by users of fuel additives is just how quick the engine starts with the additives, even when the outside temperature is not the highest.
Winter fuel additives are not necessarily more expensive. But their anti-gel formulation can see them as one of the top choices, especially when the vehicle is starting to show a rougher start or an unsmooth engine performance in the cold.
The injectors also need proper cleaning, which means the fuel additive is one of the most interesting choices for a generally clean fuel system. Most users can see these results quite quickly. A common misconception is that diesel fuel additives are only used on old cars. But the truth is that the additives show results on all cars, even on non-turbocharged engines.
Final considerations
One of the main benefits of using the best diesel fuel additives is simply having the ability to have a high standard of operation for the engine. Diesel engines remain a mechanical masterpiece at their core and they deserve to work at optimum standards.
Changing policies and taxes on diesel cars can put extra pressure on their running costs. This is where diesel fuel additives can prove useful. Most importantly, the additives make the engines run better at the end, which is worth the investment alone.
When it comes to the diesel vehicles of choice, drivers need to know additives can be used on all of them. Compact diesel cars can have notorious problems with clogging as they are driven on short distances, which is not the optimum way of driving for diesel engines. Larger cars such as SUVs can also benefit from diesel additives. They tend to have poorer fuel economy and they can benefit from the savings fuel additives have to offer.
