9 Best Diesel Fuel Additives 2026 in the United States

Hot Shot's Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment is a versatile diesel additive designed to keep your engine running smoothly on a daily basis. One of its main strengths is boosting the cetane number by up to 7 points, which helps your diesel engine ignite fuel more efficiently. This can lead to better fuel economy and improved acceleration, making it a good choice if you're looking to enhance performance and reduce fuel costs.

It also acts as a fuel injector cleaner, removing deposits that can clog injectors, and improves fuel lubricity to protect vital parts like pumps and injectors from wear. This helps maintain engine health and can potentially extend the life of your fuel system. The product offers protection against rust and corrosion by removing moisture and stabilizing the fuel, which is important for preventing damage over time, especially if you live in a humid area or use your vehicle infrequently.

This additive is easy to use, with a recommended dose of 1 to 2 ounces per 25 gallons of diesel, suitable for regular use at every fill-up. It serves as an excellent choice for everyday maintenance and improving engine efficiency, though users in freezing climates may need to consider additional products for specialized cold weather protection.

Hot Shot's Secret EDT+ Winter Defense is a 7-in-1 diesel fuel additive designed to prevent fuel gelling in cold weather. It improves fuel performance by boosting cetane levels (up to 7 points) and enhancing lubricity by up to 32%, which is beneficial for smoother engine operation and better fuel efficiency. Additionally, it demulsifies water and prevents rust and corrosion, ensuring the longevity of the fuel system components.

The additive also acts as a fuel injector cleaner, removing internal and external deposits, which helps maintain engine performance and extends its lifespan. The product is easy to use, with a 16 oz bottle treating up to 200 gallons of diesel fuel. This makes it a cost-effective option for diesel vehicle owners needing reliable performance in harsh winter conditions. However, the necessity to double the dosage in temperatures below 0°F could be seen as a drawback for users in extremely cold climates.

Its travel size and ease of application make it convenient for on-the-go use. It is a strong choice for those needing comprehensive diesel fuel protection and performance enhancement during winter months.

Howes Diesel Treat 64-Ounce Anti-Gel and Diesel Fuel Lubricator is a well-regarded product in the diesel fuel additive category. Its primary strength lies in its ability to prevent fuel gelling, making it a reliable choice for those operating diesel engines in very cold climates. This product also adds lubricity, which helps protect key engine components like injectors, pumps, and upper cylinders, particularly beneficial for those using Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuels.

Additionally, it includes a detergent package that helps prevent fuel injector deposits, which can otherwise decrease engine power and fuel economy. Another notable feature is its ability to remove water from the fuel without using harmful alcohols or solvents, which can be abrasive to the system. The packaging comes in a convenient case pack of six 64-ounce bottles, which is suitable for regular users who need a consistent supply.

This product is particularly beneficial for diesel vehicle and equipment owners who face harsh winter conditions and need a reliable additive to maintain engine performance and longevity.