Diesel engines are powerful and dependable. They move trucks, ships, buses, and even some personal vehicles. But like any machine, they need proper care to perform well and last longer. One of the best ways to protect and improve a diesel engine is by using a good fuel additive.
Diesel fuel additives are special liquids mixed with diesel fuel to help engines run better. These products do many things. They clean the engine, protect it from wear, and improve fuel quality. Some additives also help in cold weather by preventing the fuel from thickening. Others increase the fuel’s ability to burn cleanly and efficiently.
Today’s diesel engines are more advanced than ever. They have sensitive parts and strict emissions systems. That means dirty fuel or low-quality diesel can cause problems like clogging, poor mileage, engine knocking, or even breakdowns. That’s why using the right fuel additive can make a big difference.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 5 diesel fuel additives available today. These products are trusted by drivers, mechanics, and fleet operators around the world. Each one offers unique benefits, and we’ll explain how they work and why they’re worth using.
1. Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost
Power Service is one of the most well-known brands in the diesel world. Their Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost is a top-selling additive that delivers strong performance in all seasons.
What It Does
This additive has two major functions. First, it cleans the fuel system. That means it removes harmful deposits from fuel injectors, pumps, and other parts. Cleaner fuel systems help the engine burn fuel more efficiently, which improves power and fuel economy. Second, it boosts the cetane number of diesel fuel.
Why Cetane Matters
Cetane is a rating that shows how easily diesel fuel burns. Higher cetane numbers lead to smoother engine performance, quicker starts, and less engine noise. Diesel Kleen can raise the cetane number by up to 6 points, depending on the fuel and amount used.
Key Benefits
- Cleans injectors and prevents buildup
- Improves fuel economy (up to 8%)
- Boosts power and acceleration
- Reduces black smoke and emissions
- Safe for use in all diesel engines, including newer high-pressure common rail systems
Best Use
Diesel Kleen is perfect for drivers who want better performance and cleaner fuel systems. It’s especially helpful for trucks, RVs, and vehicles used for towing or long-distance driving.
2. Stanadyne Performance Formula Diesel Fuel Additive
Stanadyne is a respected name in diesel injection systems. Their Performance Formula additive is made by people who understand diesel engines inside and out. This product is widely used by fleets, diesel mechanics, and even some manufacturers.
What It Does
This additive improves fuel lubricity, which helps protect fuel pumps and injectors. It also cleans the fuel system, reduces smoke, and improves combustion. In cold weather, it also helps prevent gelling and fuel line freeze-ups.
Unique Features
One thing that sets Stanadyne apart is that it’s approved by many engine manufacturers. It meets or exceeds several industry standards. It also works well with ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD), which is now common in most countries.
Key Benefits
- Protects pumps and injectors from wear
- Improves engine power and response
- Reduces fuel consumption
- Helps prevent cold weather issues
- Stabilizes fuel for storage
- Approved by manufacturers like GM, Ford, and others
Best Use
This additive is ideal for diesel owners who want a well-rounded product with strong protection and cleaning power. It’s especially valuable for vehicles in cold climates or those that run on ULSD.
3. Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme
Diesel Extreme from Hot Shot’s Secret is a powerful cleaner designed to restore and protect diesel fuel systems. It’s not an everyday additive—it’s more of a deep clean product used every 6,000 miles or so.
What It Does
Diesel Extreme is made to clean dirty injectors, remove water, and neutralize acids in the fuel system. These acids can form as fuel ages and lead to corrosion. This additive also boosts cetane and stabilizes fuel.
Deep Cleaning Action
What makes Diesel Extreme stand out is its strong cleaning formula. It uses a powerful detergent to strip away carbon deposits and other buildup from injectors, combustion chambers, and fuel lines. This helps improve throttle response, fuel economy, and power.
Key Benefits
- Deep cleans the fuel system
- Boosts cetane for better combustion
- Removes moisture and corrosion-causing acids
- Restores lost performance
- Safe for all diesel fuels and systems
Best Use
Use Diesel Extreme as part of a diesel maintenance plan. It’s great for older vehicles, high-mileage engines, or any diesel that hasn’t had a good cleaning in a while. Many users notice improved fuel economy and engine smoothness after just one treatment.
4. Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean
Lucas Oil is a trusted name in fuel and engine treatments, and their Diesel Deep Clean product focuses on solving emissions problems caused by dirty fuel systems.
What It Does
Diesel Deep Clean helps reduce diesel particulate matter (soot) and can even assist in regenerating diesel particulate filters (DPFs). It also cleans the injectors and fuel system. The company claims that it helps reduce the need for costly DPF repairs or replacements.
Focus on Emissions
Modern diesel engines have emissions systems like DPFs and EGR valves. If these get clogged, the engine may lose power or go into limp mode. Diesel Deep Clean helps keep these systems running properly by improving the fuel burn and reducing soot.
Key Benefits
- Cleans fuel system and injectors
- Helps prevent DPF clogging
- Reduces black smoke and emissions
- Improves power and throttle response
- Suitable for all diesel vehicles
Best Use
Lucas Diesel Deep Clean is great for newer diesel engines with emissions systems. If you’re having issues with DPF warning lights or poor fuel economy, this product is worth trying.
5. Howes Diesel Treat
Howes Diesel Treat is a winter diesel fuel conditioner designed for cold weather use. It’s been trusted by truckers and fleets for many years.
What It Does
This additive prevents diesel fuel from gelling in cold weather. It also adds lubrication to protect the fuel pump and injectors, especially in ULSD fuels that have lower natural lubricity. It also cleans the system over time.
Cold Weather Performance
When diesel fuel gets too cold, it can thicken or “gel,” causing the engine to stall or fail to start. Howes Diesel Treat lowers the pour point and improves cold filter plugging point (CFPP), so the fuel stays fluid even in freezing conditions.
Key Benefits
- Prevents fuel gelling in cold weather
- Adds lubricity to protect engine parts
- Removes water and reduces rust
- Cleans fuel injectors gradually
- Works well with biodiesel blends
Best Use
Howes Diesel Treat is a smart choice for anyone driving a diesel vehicle in cold regions. It’s also good for trucks and equipment stored outside in winter.
Final Thoughts
There are many diesel fuel additives on the market, and choosing the right one depends on your needs. Here’s a simple guide to help:
- For everyday performance and cleaning: Try Diesel Kleen or Stanadyne Performance Formula.
- For deep cleaning or restoration: Go with Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme.
- For emissions problems and DPF care: Use Lucas Diesel Deep Clean.
- For winter protection: Choose Howes Diesel Treat.
You don’t need to use all these products at once. Many diesel owners use a regular maintenance additive like Diesel Kleen and then add a deep cleaner every few months. In winter, they might switch to a cold-weather product like Howes.
Whatever you choose, make sure to follow the instructions on the label. Use the right dose and keep track of how your engine performs. Over time, you’ll notice smoother starts, better mileage, and fewer engine problems.