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10 Best Diesel System Cleaner 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hot Shot's Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment 32oz, 6-in-1 Diesel Additive - Injector Cleaner, Fuel System Cleaner, Fuel Additive Boosts Cetane

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,392
Compatibility
Cleaning Power
Ease of Use

Most important from
7994 reviews

Compatibility
Great for combating the harsh effects of diesel fuel, especially in colder weather.
Cleaning Power
Noticeable difference in performance; improves fuel efficiency, reduces engine noise, and keeps the fuel system clean.
Ease of Use
Super convenient and easy to use; just squeeze the right amount into the tank.

Hot Shot's Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment 32oz is a versatile 6-in-1 diesel additive designed to keep diesel engines running smoothly and efficiently. One of its standout features is cleaning power, as it effectively cleans both internal and external injector deposits, enhancing fuel lubricity and promoting engine longevity. Additionally, it prevents rust and corrosion by demulsifying moisture, adding stability to the fuel, and protecting fuel system components from oxidation and degradation.

The product's ease of use is another notable strength; simply add 1-2 ounces for every 25 gallons of diesel at each fill-up. This regular application not only boosts cetane levels by up to 7 points, improving fuel economy and reducing maintenance costs, but also makes the product convenient for daily use. However, the frequency of use might be seen as a drawback for some users who prefer a less frequent application schedule.

Regarding compatibility, the product seems to be suitable for a wide range of diesel engines, ensuring broad usability. While the environmental impact is not explicitly detailed, the manufacturer's commitment to making equipment last longer and improving efficiency suggests a consideration of environmental factors. This diesel additive is a robust choice for those looking to maintain their diesel engines efficiently, though the need for regular use might require some commitment.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,392
Compatibility
Cleaning Power
Ease of Use

Most important from
7994 reviews

Compatibility
Great for combating the harsh effects of diesel fuel, especially in colder weather.
Cleaning Power
Noticeable difference in performance; improves fuel efficiency, reduces engine noise, and keeps the fuel system clean.
Ease of Use
Super convenient and easy to use; just squeeze the right amount into the tank.
#2

Archoil AR6400-D Diesel Fuel System Cleaner - Cleans Injectors, Turbo, DPF & EGR

Rating
9.4
Cleaning Power

Most important from
2121 reviews

Cleaning Power
The Archoil AR6400-D made a significant difference in performance, clearing up rough running and fault codes, and restoring the engine to run smoothly.

The Archoil AR6400-D Diesel Fuel System Cleaner is a versatile and effective option for maintaining your diesel vehicle's engine components. It is compatible with all diesel systems, making it a convenient choice regardless of your specific vehicle type. The cleaning power of this product is a major strength; it targets critical areas such as injectors, turbos, DPFs (Diesel Particulate Filters), and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) systems, helping to improve performance and fuel economy while ensuring smoother idling.

This comprehensive cleaning capability is particularly beneficial for vehicles experiencing reduced performance due to build-up and deposits. The inclusion of additives is another strong point, as these not only enhance cleaning but also contribute to the restoration of fuel system performance. This can be especially useful for Power Stroke engine users when combined with the Archoil AR9100 Friction Modifier to address injector stiction issues.

Ease of use is quite high with the Archoil AR6400-D, as it comes in a liquid form that is easy to pour, and one 12 oz bottle treats up to 40 gallons of diesel fuel. It only needs to be used every 5,000 miles, which means you won’t have to apply it too frequently. The Archoil AR6400-D is a highly effective cleaner for diesel systems that offers significant benefits in terms of performance restoration and ease of use.

Rating
9.4
Cleaning Power

Most important from
2121 reviews

Cleaning Power
The Archoil AR6400-D made a significant difference in performance, clearing up rough running and fault codes, and restoring the engine to run smoothly.
#3

STP Fuel System Cleaner and Stabilizer by STP, Fuel System Cleaner for Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, 5.25 Fl Oz Each, 12 Pack

Rating
9.2
Compatibility
Cleaning Power
Additives

Most important from
1069 reviews

Compatibility
Works great in my old truck.
Cleaning Power
On the very first bottle, my car was noticeably more responsive with the gas pedal, and I got 5 more MPG.
Additives
This one seems to work even better for gas mileage than the 'gas mileage' additive from STP.

The STP Fuel System Cleaner and Stabilizer is designed to keep your vehicle's fuel intake system clean, which can help save gas and restore performance. It boasts strong cleaning power, removing deposits from the entire fuel system, and includes additives that help inhibit corrosion. This product is versatile, being compatible with cars, trucks, and motorcycles, including those with cap-less fuel tanks.

The 12-pack of 5.25 fl oz bottles makes it convenient for regular use, although the frequency of application may vary depending on vehicle usage and condition. The cleaner is straightforward to use, simply being added to the fuel tank. However, there's limited information on its environmental impact, which could be a consideration for eco-conscious users.

If you are looking for a reliable solution to maintain fuel system cleanliness and performance, this product is a solid choice, but you may want to research further regarding its environmental footprint.

Rating
9.2
Compatibility
Cleaning Power
Additives

Most important from
1069 reviews

Compatibility
Works great in my old truck.
Cleaning Power
On the very first bottle, my car was noticeably more responsive with the gas pedal, and I got 5 more MPG.
Additives
This one seems to work even better for gas mileage than the 'gas mileage' additive from STP.

Buying Guide for the Best Diesel System Cleaner

Choosing the right diesel system cleaner can significantly improve the performance and longevity of your diesel engine. Diesel system cleaners are designed to clean the fuel injectors, combustion chambers, and other critical components of your engine. This helps to remove deposits, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions. When selecting a diesel system cleaner, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you pick the best product for your needs.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the diesel system cleaner is suitable for your specific type of diesel engine. This is important because using an incompatible cleaner can cause damage to your engine. Diesel engines can vary between light-duty (like those in passenger cars) and heavy-duty (like those in trucks and industrial machinery). Always check the product label to ensure it matches your engine type. If you are unsure, consult your vehicle's manual or a professional mechanic.
Cleaning PowerCleaning power indicates how effectively the cleaner can remove deposits and contaminants from your engine. This is crucial for maintaining engine performance and fuel efficiency. Cleaners with higher cleaning power are typically more effective but may be more aggressive. For regular maintenance, a moderate cleaning power is usually sufficient. For engines with significant buildup or performance issues, a stronger cleaner may be necessary. Assess your engine's condition to determine the appropriate level of cleaning power.
AdditivesAdditives are additional chemicals included in the cleaner to enhance its performance. Common additives include lubricants, corrosion inhibitors, and cetane boosters. Lubricants help reduce wear on engine components, corrosion inhibitors protect against rust, and cetane boosters improve combustion efficiency. Depending on your engine's needs, you may prioritize certain additives. For example, if you live in a humid area, a cleaner with strong corrosion inhibitors might be beneficial.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple it is to apply the cleaner to your diesel system. This is important for convenience and ensuring proper application. Some cleaners are added directly to the fuel tank, while others may require more complex procedures. If you prefer a straightforward process, look for cleaners that can be easily added to your fuel tank. For more thorough cleaning, you might consider products that require additional steps but offer deeper cleaning.
Frequency of UseFrequency of use indicates how often you need to use the cleaner to maintain optimal engine performance. This is important for planning your maintenance schedule and budgeting for cleaner purchases. Some cleaners are designed for one-time use, while others are intended for regular use, such as every few thousand miles. Consider your driving habits and maintenance routine to choose a cleaner that fits your schedule. Regular users might prefer a cleaner that can be used frequently without causing harm to the engine.
Environmental ImpactEnvironmental impact refers to the cleaner's effect on the environment, including its biodegradability and the presence of harmful chemicals. This is important for reducing your ecological footprint. Cleaners with lower environmental impact are typically biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals. If environmental considerations are important to you, look for products labeled as eco-friendly or biodegradable. These products are designed to minimize harm to the environment while still providing effective cleaning.

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