Diesel Fuel Cleaner Reviews: 5 Best Options

If your diesel engine feels sluggish, struggles to start, or burns through fuel faster than it should, deposits in the fuel system are likely the culprit. A quality diesel fuel cleaner can restore lost performance, improve combustion, and even extend the life of your DPF and turbo.

We’ve rounded up five top-rated diesel fuel system cleaners to help you choose the right one for your truck, SUV, or equipment. Whether you need a deep clean or everyday maintenance, this guide breaks down each product’s strengths so you can make an informed decision.

Archoil AR6400-D Diesel Fuel System Cleaner – Deep Clean

The Archoil AR6400-D is a concentrated, rapid-acting diesel fuel system cleaner designed for a deep clean. One 12-ounce bottle treats 30 to 40 gallons of diesel, and you simply pour it into the fuel tank and drive normally. It works quickly on performance-robbing deposits to restore your fuel system, and it’s recommended every 5,000 miles or as needed.

This cleaner specifically targets injector deposits, restoring spray patterns for smoother running and more efficient combustion. It also reduces deposit buildup in the DPF, which can help lower regeneration frequency and keep your exhaust system healthier. If you want a fast, effective one-shot treatment, this is a solid choice.

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• EASY TO USE: Pour into the fuel tank and drive normally; one 12 oz bottle treats 30-40 gallons of diesel. Use every 5,000 miles or as needed
• RAPID-ACTING DEEP CLEAN: Concentrated diesel fuel system cleaner designed to work quickly on performance-robbing deposits to restore the fuel system
• CLEANS INJECTORS FAST: Removes injector deposits and restores spray patterns for smoother running, improved response, and more efficient combustion
• RESTORES DPF PERFORMANCE: Reduces deposit buildup to support a cleaner DPF and reduce regeneration frequency
• TURBO DEPOSIT CONTROL: Reduces deposit buildup that affects turbo response, supporting smoother acceleration and restored boost
• MAINTAIN RESULTS WITH AR6500: Follow up with Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment at every fill-up to keep the fuel system clean and address insufficient lubricity and cetane levels in diesel from the pump

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Hot Shot's Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment EDT – Daily Maintenance

Hot Shot’s Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment EDT is formulated for regular use to keep your diesel engine in top condition. This 16-ounce additive boosts cetane levels by up to 7 points, which can lead to better fuel economy and reduced maintenance costs. It’s designed to clean both internal and external injector deposits while enhancing fuel lubricity to protect the fuel pump and injectors.

Beyond cleaning, EDT prevents rust and corrosion by demulsifying moisture and adding stability to your fuel. Using it at every fill-up helps maintain engine health over the long term. If you prefer a set-and-forget maintenance additive that also cleans, this is a reliable option for everyday driving.

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• EVERYDAY TREATMENT: Keep your diesel engine in top condition with our EDT that is designed to improve performance & maintain engine health. With regular use, you can ensure your engine runs smoothly & efficiently giving you peace of mind on the road.
• BOOST FUEL ECONOMY: Enhance your vehicle performance with our diesel additive that boosts cetane levels by up to 7 points resulting in better fuel economy & reduced maintenance costs. Say goodbye to poor acceleration & frequent trips to the mechanic.
• FUEL INJECTOR CLEANER: Cleans both internal & external injector deposits, enhances the lubricity of fuel to safeguard the fuel system components, such as the pump & injectors to increase engine longevity while also acting as a fuel system cleaner.
• PREVENTS RUST & CORROSION: While demulsifying moisture & adding stability to fuel by preventing oxidation & degradation, it also provides a reliable solution for protecting fuel systems from the damaging effects of rust & corrosion.
• EASY TO USE: Use at every fill-up, 1 oz. or 2oz. (for more cetane and lubricity boost) for every 25 gallons of diesel, this product is easy to use! Just pour it into your diesel fuel tank during your next fill up.

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Archoil Diesel Fuel System Kit – Complete Restoration

The Archoil Diesel Fuel System Kit combines the AR6400-D cleaner with the AR6500 treatment for a complete clean-and-maintain solution. You start with the AR6400-D for a deep clean (12 ounces treats 30 to 40 gallons), then switch to the AR6500 at every fill-up for ongoing protection. The AR6500 treats up to 400 gallons, making this kit a comprehensive package.

This two-step system is suitable for all diesel engines, including modern HPCR systems. It removes injector deposits and restores spray patterns for smoother running and improved response. If you want a thorough reset followed by continuous protection, this kit gives you both steps in one purchase.

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• TWO-STEP FUEL SYSTEM RESET: Includes AR6400-D Diesel Fuel System Cleaner + AR6500 Diesel Treatment (40 oz) for a complete clean-and-maintain solution
• HOW IT WORKS: Use AR6400-D first for a deep clean (12 oz treats 30-40 gallons), then use AR6500 at every fill-up for ongoing protection (40 oz treats up to 400 gallons)
• FOR ALL DIESEL ENGINES: Suitable for all diesel vehicles and equipment, including modern HPCR systems
• CLEANS INJECTORS & RESTORES RESPONSE: Removes injector deposits and restores spray patterns for smoother running, improved response, and more efficient combustion
• IMPROVES LUBRICITY (ASTM D6079): AR6500 is tested to improve lubricity by 43% to protect fuel system components, including wear-sensitive parts like the CP4 pump
• BOOSTS CETANE UP TO +8: AR6500 raises cetane up to 8 points for faster ignition, smoother combustion, and improved drivability
• SUPPORTS DPF & REDUCES REGENS: Targets deposit formation to help keep the DPF clean and reduce regeneration frequency – supporting performance and fuel economy
• KEEPS TURBO CLEAN: Reduces deposit formation that impacts turbo response for restored boost and smoother acceleration

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Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme – Concentrated Cleaner

Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme is a concentrated diesel fuel additive that cleans out the tank, lines, and injectors. The 64-ounce bottle treats 160 gallons of fuel, making it a cost-effective option for larger tanks or multiple vehicles. It also removes free water from the system, which can cause corrosion and microbial growth.

This additive stabilizes fuel, boosts cetane, and lubricates the fuel pump and injectors to restore engine performance. It’s a versatile cleaner that addresses several common diesel fuel issues at once. If you need a heavy-duty cleaner that also handles water and stabilizes fuel, this is a strong contender.

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• Clean Out The Tank, Lines And Injectors
• Remove Free Water From The System
• Stabilize Fuel, Boost Cetane
• Lubricate The Fuel Pump And Injectors

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Power Service Diesel System Cleaner and Cetane Booster

Power Service Diesel System Cleaner and Cetane Booster is a straightforward, effective additive made in the United States. It’s designed to clean the entire diesel fuel system while boosting cetane for improved combustion. The formula helps restore power and fuel economy by removing deposits from injectors and other fuel system components.

This product is easy to use and works with all diesel engines, including those with high-pressure common rail systems. It’s a reliable choice if you want a no-fuss cleaner that also improves cetane. For a simple, effective solution from a trusted brand, this cleaner delivers consistent results.

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• Made in United States

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Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider

Choosing the right diesel fuel cleaner depends on your engine’s needs. Consider these key factors to find the best match for your vehicle.

• Type of Cleaner: Choose between a one-time deep cleaner for restoring performance or an everyday additive for ongoing maintenance and protection.
• Cetane Boost: Higher cetane levels improve combustion, leading to smoother starts, better fuel economy, and reduced engine noise.
• Injector Cleaning: Look for a cleaner that removes both internal and external injector deposits to restore spray patterns and efficiency.
• DPF and Turbo Protection: Some cleaners reduce deposit buildup in the DPF and turbo, helping to lower regeneration frequency and extend component life.
• Fuel Lubricity: Additives that enhance lubricity protect fuel pumps and injectors from wear, especially with low-sulfur diesel fuels.

Conclusion

Whether you need a deep clean or daily maintenance, the right diesel fuel cleaner can restore performance and protect your engine. The Archoil AR6400-D is ideal for a quick deep clean, while Hot Shot’s Secret EDT offers excellent everyday protection.

For a complete system, the Archoil kit covers both cleaning and maintenance. Hot Shot’s Diesel Extreme handles heavy-duty cleaning and water removal, and Power Service provides a simple, effective cetane boost. Choose based on your specific needs and driving habits.