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10 Best Diesel Fuel Additive 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment (40 Ounces) - Treats 400 Gallons - Additive for All Diesel Vehicles

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,145
Cetane Number Improver
Lubricity Enhancer
Detergent Additive

Most important from
2015 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Fuel economy noticeably improved from 15.5 to 17.4 MPG, demonstrating real efficiency gains.
Lubricity Enhancer
Engine performance became smoother with no stutter at any speed or RPM, even on rough terrain.
Detergent Additive
The additive keeps the fuel system clean while boosting power and reducing noise.

The Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment is designed to improve diesel fuel performance and protect your engine, making it a solid choice for anyone using diesel vehicles. It comes in a 40-ounce bottle that treats up to 400 gallons of fuel, so adding it at each fill-up is easy and convenient. One of its standout features is the ability to clean not just the fuel system but also the post-combustion parts like the turbocharger and diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can help prevent costly repairs and reduce how often your vehicle needs regeneration.

This additive also boosts the cetane number, which means your engine runs smoother and responds better. It lubricates the fuel system to reduce wear and helps stabilize fuel while separating water, which protects against damage and improves fuel efficiency. Users appreciate its effectiveness, reflected in high customer ratings.

While it offers broad protection and performance improvements, it may be priced higher than some basic additives, and for very old or heavily contaminated engines, it might not fully restore performance on its own. For modern diesel vehicles, this additive delivers multiple benefits in one bottle, making it a practical and reliable choice.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,145
Cetane Number Improver
Lubricity Enhancer
Detergent Additive

Most important from
2015 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Fuel economy noticeably improved from 15.5 to 17.4 MPG, demonstrating real efficiency gains.
Lubricity Enhancer
Engine performance became smoother with no stutter at any speed or RPM, even on rough terrain.
Detergent Additive
The additive keeps the fuel system clean while boosting power and reducing noise.
#2

Hot Shot's Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment 16 Ounce Squeeze Bottle (HSSEDT16ZS)

Rating
9.6
Cetane Number Improver
Lubricity Enhancer
Anti-Gel Additive

Most important from
8263 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Noticeable difference in performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced engine noise.
Lubricity Enhancer
Great for protecting aging high-pressure fuel pumps and original injectors, making it a cost-effective alternative to more expensive products.
Anti-Gel Additive
Essential for maintaining engine health and combating harsh diesel fuel effects, especially in cold weather.

The Hot Shot's Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment is designed to enhance the performance of diesel engines. One of its standout features is the ability to boost cetane numbers by up to 7 points, which can significantly improve engine power, performance, and fuel economy. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to get the most out of their diesel engines, whether for everyday use or heavy-duty applications. The additive also increases lubricity, helping to prevent rust and corrosion, which is crucial for maintaining the longevity of engine parts.

Another noteworthy feature is its ability to stabilize fuel and disperse moisture, preventing common issues such as fuel gelling in cold temperatures and water contamination. The inclusion of a detergent additive ensures that the fuel system stays clean, promoting better engine efficiency and reducing the risk of deposits that can hinder performance. However, some users may find the price point a bit high compared to other diesel additives on the market. Additionally, the 16-ounce bottle may not be sufficient for larger fuel tanks, requiring more frequent purchases.

Despite these minor drawbacks, this additive ranks #1 in Diesel Additives and has a strong reputation for quality and efficacy. It is a reliable option for diesel engine owners seeking a comprehensive treatment to enhance their vehicle's performance and longevity.

Rating
9.6
Cetane Number Improver
Lubricity Enhancer
Anti-Gel Additive

Most important from
8263 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Noticeable difference in performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced engine noise.
Lubricity Enhancer
Great for protecting aging high-pressure fuel pumps and original injectors, making it a cost-effective alternative to more expensive products.
Anti-Gel Additive
Essential for maintaining engine health and combating harsh diesel fuel effects, especially in cold weather.
#3

Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme, 1 Qt (Packaging May Vary) (P040432Z)

Rating
9.4
Cetane Number Improver

Most important from
5371 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Improved start-ups, smoother running, and mileage increase from 38-42 MPG to 41-48 MPG. Enhanced acceleration with noticeable turbo performance improvement.

Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme diesel fuel additive offers several benefits for diesel engine maintenance. It is designed to clean the entire fuel system, including fuel injectors, pumps, and pistons, which can enhance engine performance and longevity. The additive boosts cetane levels by up to 7 points, which can improve fuel efficiency and engine power, making it beneficial for those looking to optimize their vehicle's performance.

Additionally, it contains lubricity enhancers that reduce wear and tear on engine components, and an anti-gel additive to prevent fuel from gelling in cold weather, ensuring smoother starts in winter. The inclusion of detergent additives helps in removing stubborn deposits and varnishes, keeping the engine running smoothly. Its water demulsifier and stabilizer properties also contribute to dispersing moisture and preventing rust and corrosion, adding to the durability of the engine.

One of the standout features is its ease of use; a simple application of 8 ounces per 20 gallons of fuel every 6,000 miles makes it convenient for regular maintenance. If you are looking for a reliable diesel additive to clean, protect, and boost your engine's performance, Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme is a strong contender.

Rating
9.4
Cetane Number Improver

Most important from
5371 reviews

Cetane Number Improver
Improved start-ups, smoother running, and mileage increase from 38-42 MPG to 41-48 MPG. Enhanced acceleration with noticeable turbo performance improvement.

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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