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10 Best Diesel Fuel Additive 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment (40 oz) Two Pack - Treats 800 Gallons - Additive for All Diesel Vehicles

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,205
Cetane Number Improver

Most important from
2973 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Noticeable boost in fuel economy with mileage increasing from around 30 mpg to over 33 mpg on daily commutes and even hitting 42 mpg on some trips.

The Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment is designed to enhance diesel fuel performance by addressing several important factors. It provides a strong boost in cetane number, which can help improve engine power and throttle response, making it suitable for drivers who want smoother and more efficient combustion. This additive also cleans and lubricates the fuel system, which is especially beneficial for modern diesel engines with high-pressure common rail (HPCR) systems that can be sensitive to deposits and wear.

Additionally, it acts as a stabilizer and helps separate water from fuel, protecting the engine from corrosion and fuel degradation over time. Sold as a two-pack treating up to 800 gallons, it offers good value for regular maintenance. The product does not explicitly mention anti-gel properties, so those in very cold climates might consider using a dedicated anti-gel additive alongside it.

This treatment is a solid choice for anyone looking to improve fuel efficiency, protect their injection system, and maintain clean fuel lines in all types of diesel vehicles.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,205
Cetane Number Improver

Most important from
2973 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Noticeable boost in fuel economy with mileage increasing from around 30 mpg to over 33 mpg on daily commutes and even hitting 42 mpg on some trips.
#2

Opti-Lube XPD All-Season Diesel Fuel Additive - 1 Gallon with Accessories (Hand Pump and Standard Accessory Bottles)

Rating
7.9
Cetane Number Improver
Lubricity Enhancer
Anti-Gel Additive

Most important from
661 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Boosts diesel fuel's lubricity and cetane levels to maintain engine health and efficiency.
Lubricity Enhancer
Significantly enhances fuel pump longevity and promotes cleaner engine operation.
Anti-Gel Additive
Smooths engine performance and reduces noise, counteracting the harsh effects of ultra low sulfur diesel.

Opti-Lube XPD All-Season Diesel Fuel Additive is designed to keep diesel engines running smoothly by addressing several important areas. It effectively improves lubricity, which helps protect your engine’s fuel system from wear, especially important for modern low-sulfur diesel fuels. The additive also boosts fuel economy, meaning you get more miles out of each gallon, which is a big plus for anyone using trucks or heavy equipment. It cleans fuel injectors by removing buildup, helping your engine run more efficiently and reducing emissions. Another key feature is its anti-gel capability, allowing diesel to flow properly down to about -10°F, which is great for colder climates. The product also acts as a water demulsifier, separating water from fuel to prevent damage and extending the lifespan of stored diesel.

Additionally, it stabilizes fuel, doubling its storage life so you don’t have to worry about degradation over time. A practical bonus is the included hand pump and travel bottles, making it easy to use on the go. While it performs well across these areas, the anti-gel protection is limited to moderate cold temperatures (-10°F), so in extremely cold regions, additional measures might be needed. This additive is suitable not just for trucks but also for farm and construction equipment, making it a versatile choice for most diesel users looking to improve engine health and fuel efficiency.

Rating
7.9
Cetane Number Improver
Lubricity Enhancer
Anti-Gel Additive

Most important from
661 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Boosts diesel fuel's lubricity and cetane levels to maintain engine health and efficiency.
Lubricity Enhancer
Significantly enhances fuel pump longevity and promotes cleaner engine operation.
Anti-Gel Additive
Smooths engine performance and reduces noise, counteracting the harsh effects of ultra low sulfur diesel.
#3

Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Anti-Gel– 16 Oz Squeeze, 7-in-1 Diesel Fuel Additive – Prevents Gelling and Fuel Line Freeze-Ups – Boosts Cetane – Cleans Injectors – Improves Performance, Amber

Rating
7.6
Anti-Gel Additive

Most important from
2198 reviews

Anti-Gel Additive
Ensures diesel engines start much easier during harsh winter conditions by preventing fuel from gelling.

Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Anti-Gel is a strong choice for anyone needing reliable diesel fuel performance in cold climates. It effectively prevents gelling by reducing wax crystal size, allowing fuel to flow smoothly even at temperatures down to -65°F when used as directed. This makes it a good fit for winter use, ensuring your engine starts easier and runs smoothly in freezing conditions. The additive also boosts the cetane number by up to 7 points, which helps improve combustion and engine efficiency.

It cleans fuel injectors by removing deposits, supporting better fuel delivery and prolonging injector life. Additionally, it acts as a water demulsifier, dispersing moisture to prevent rust, corrosion, and freezing in fuel lines, which can be common problems in cold weather. The product enhances lubricity and stabilizes diesel fuel, helping protect the fuel system from wear.

One of the conveniences is its simple mixing ratio—4 ounces for every 31 gallons of fuel—making it easy to use before cold weather hits. This additive targets winter conditions specifically, so it might not be necessary year-round. Proper dosing is important to achieve the best results. For those operating diesel engines in cold environments and looking to avoid fuel-related winter issues while improving fuel quality, this product provides a solid, science-backed solution trusted by many users.

Rating
7.6
Anti-Gel Additive

Most important from
2198 reviews

Anti-Gel Additive
Ensures diesel engines start much easier during harsh winter conditions by preventing fuel from gelling.

Buying Guide for the Best Diesel Fuel Additive

Choosing the right diesel fuel additive can significantly improve the performance and longevity of your diesel engine. Diesel fuel additives are chemical compounds that you add to your fuel to enhance its properties. They can help with various issues such as improving fuel efficiency, reducing emissions, and preventing engine wear. To pick the best diesel fuel additive for your needs, you should understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements.
Cetane Number ImproverThe cetane number is a measure of the combustion quality of diesel fuel during compression ignition. A higher cetane number indicates that the fuel ignites more quickly and burns more completely, which can lead to smoother engine operation and reduced emissions. If you experience hard starting, excessive noise, or smoke, a cetane number improver can be beneficial. For general use, a moderate increase in cetane number is usually sufficient, but for high-performance engines, a higher boost might be necessary.
Lubricity EnhancerLubricity enhancers are additives that help reduce friction and wear in the fuel system, particularly in the fuel injectors and pumps. This is important because modern ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuels can lack the natural lubricating properties of older diesel fuels. If you want to protect your engine components and extend their lifespan, look for additives that specifically mention lubricity enhancement. For older engines or those with high mileage, a stronger lubricity enhancer might be more appropriate.
Anti-Gel AdditiveAnti-gel additives prevent diesel fuel from gelling or thickening in cold temperatures, which can clog fuel lines and filters. This is crucial if you live in or travel to areas with cold climates. If you frequently operate your vehicle in freezing conditions, an anti-gel additive is essential to ensure reliable engine starting and operation. For milder climates, a general-purpose additive with some anti-gel properties might be sufficient.
Detergent AdditiveDetergent additives help keep the fuel system clean by removing deposits and preventing new ones from forming. This can improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and maintain engine performance. If you notice a decrease in fuel economy or engine power, or if your vehicle has high mileage, a detergent additive can be very beneficial. For regular maintenance, a mild detergent additive used periodically can help keep the system clean.
Water DemulsifierWater demulsifiers help separate water from diesel fuel, preventing it from causing corrosion and microbial growth in the fuel system. Water contamination can lead to serious engine problems, so it's important to address it. If you suspect water contamination or if you store diesel fuel for long periods, a water demulsifier is a good choice. For routine use, an additive with mild water separation properties can help maintain fuel quality.
StabilizerFuel stabilizers prevent the degradation of diesel fuel over time, which is especially important if the fuel will be stored for extended periods. Degraded fuel can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions. If you store diesel fuel for more than a few months, a stabilizer is essential to maintain its quality. For regular use, a stabilizer can help ensure consistent fuel performance.

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