Best Diesel Cetane Boosters to Improve Engine Performance

You want diesel cetane boosters that boost power, improve fuel economy, and clean injectors effectively. Products like Hot Shots Secret, Archoil AR6500, and Ford’s PM-22-A offer reliable cetane increases, injector cleaning, and fuel system lubrication.

Consistent dosing prevents engine stutter and protects in cold weather. Choosing boosters tailored for your engine type ensures longer life and smoother operation.

Keep exploring to discover which additives deliver the best performance and value for 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Top diesel cetane boosters raise cetane by up to 7 points, improving ignition, power, and fuel economy for smoother engine performance.
• Effective boosters clean injectors, lubricate fuel pumps, and separate water to prevent corrosion and maintain fuel system health.
• Leading products provide anti-gel protection down to -40°F, ensuring reliable fuel flow in extreme cold conditions.
• Recommended dosing varies; consistent use per manufacturer guidelines is crucial to maximize engine benefits and avoid injector damage.
• Select boosters with OEM approvals and compatibility with biodiesel blends for broad application across diesel engines in 2025.

Hot Shots Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment 32oz – 6-in-1 Diesel Additive and Injector Cleaner

Hot Shots Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment is a versatile 6-in-1 diesel additive designed to enhance your engine’s performance. It boosts cetane levels by up to 7 points, which helps improve fuel economy and acceleration. This additive is formulated to clean both internal and external injector deposits, ensuring better fuel flow and combustion.

In addition to cleaning, it enhances lubricity to protect vital components like pumps and injectors from wear. The formula also works to prevent moisture buildup, rust, and corrosion in your fuel system. This helps stabilize your diesel fuel, contributing to longer engine life and more reliable operation.

Using Hot Shots Secret is simple—add 1 to 2 ounces per 25 gallons of diesel at each fill-up. Regular use supports smoother engine performance with less wear and fewer repairs over time.

Best for: diesel vehicle owners and operators looking to improve engine efficiency and maintain clean, protected fuel systems.

Pros:

• Raises cetane levels, enhancing fuel economy and acceleration.
• Cleans injector deposits for improved fuel system function.
• Protects against moisture, rust, and corrosion.
• Supports longer engine life through fuel stabilization.

Cons:

• Might not repair existing severe engine or injector damage.

Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment Two Pack (40 oz)

The Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment Two Pack is designed to improve fuel efficiency and engine performance in diesel vehicles. Each 40 oz bottle treats up to 800 gallons of diesel fuel, helping to enhance power and throttle response. Its advanced cetane boost and combustion modifier technology work together to optimize combustion.

This treatment also helps maintain clean fuel systems, reducing engine stutter and the frequency of diesel particulate filter regeneration. Users can experience smoother acceleration and improved mileage. Some report increases from 15.5 to 17.4 MPG after regular use.

The product is easy to apply and supports long-term engine health by cleaning and lubricating key components. It is suitable for a wide range of diesel engines and fuels. Using the treatment consistently ensures ongoing benefits.

Best for: Diesel vehicle owners looking to enhance engine performance and fuel economy while reducing maintenance needs with a straightforward additive.

Pros:

• Improves power, throttle response, and fuel economy with advanced cetane and combustion technology
• Cleans and lubricates fuel systems, reducing engine stutter and filter regeneration
• Treats up to 800 gallons per bottle for long-lasting use

Cons:

• Effectiveness may vary depending on vehicle and fuel quality

Ford Genuine PM-22-A ULSD Cetane Booster and Performance Improver (20 oz)

The Ford Genuine PM-22-A ULSD Cetane Booster and Performance Improver is designed to increase cetane by 2 points without relying on alkyl nitrates. This additive supports smoother engine operation and reduces knocking in diesel engines.

It comes in a 20 oz bottle and is formulated to enhance fuel stability, reduce algae growth, and help prevent corrosion inside diesel fuel tanks. Regular use helps maintain cleaner fuel injectors and improves cold start reliability.

Using approximately 8 oz per 20 gallons of diesel fuel allows the engine to perform more efficiently. It’s particularly beneficial for Ford Power-Stroke and Ram Ecodiesel engines, where maintaining engine health and fuel quality is essential.

Best for: Diesel engine owners, especially those with Ford Power-Stroke or Ram Ecodiesel engines, looking to improve fuel quality and engine performance.

Pros:

• Increases cetane rating by 2 points without alkyl nitrates for smoother operation.
• Enhances fuel stability and prevents corrosion in diesel tanks.
• Helps keep injectors clean and improves cold start reliability.
• Can contribute to slight improvements in fuel economy.

Cons:

• Performance improvements may vary depending on engine type and conditions.

Stanadyne Diesel Performance Formula 38566, 64 Ounce

Stanadyne Diesel Performance Formula 38566, 64 Ounce, is designed to enhance diesel fuel quality and engine performance. This all-season diesel additive helps prevent fuel gelling and reduces injector deposits. It works effectively to keep engines running smoothly in various conditions.

The formula is developed by a reputable fuel injection equipment manufacturer, ensuring a trusted and premium solution. It meets the stringent Cummins L10 Superior Test for fuel cleanliness. This shows its ability to protect injectors and improve combustion efficiency.

Approved by major OEMs such as GM, Ford, Deere, and Navistar, it offers broad compatibility across many diesel engines. Its balanced formulation supports consistent diesel performance year-round. Users can rely on this additive to maintain fuel system cleanliness and engine reliability.

Best for: Diesel vehicle owners and operators seeking a reliable, all-season fuel additive to improve fuel cleanliness and engine performance across various OEM diesel engines.

Pros:

• Approved by major OEMs including GM, Ford, Deere, and Navistar.
• Meets Cummins L10 Superior Test for fuel cleanliness and injector protection.
• Developed by a fuel injection equipment manufacturer for trusted quality.
• Addresses fuel gelling and injector deposit issues effectively.

Cons:

• Specific usage instructions might require further review before use.

Hot Shots Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment 1 Gallon (HSSEDT01G)

Hot Shots Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment (HSSEDT01G) is a multifunctional additive designed to improve diesel engine performance. It effectively boosts cetane levels by up to 7 points, enhancing combustion efficiency and engine responsiveness.

This treatment also works to clean both internal and external injector deposits, helping maintain optimal injector function. It supports fuel system health by enhancing lubricity, which protects pumps and injectors from wear.

By demulsifying moisture, it reduces the risk of rust and fuel degradation, contributing to a longer engine life. The treatment is intended for routine use; adding 1 oz. per 25 gallons at every fill-up helps ensure consistent benefits.

Careful dosing is important to avoid potential issues with injectors or fuel pumps. Following the instructions keeps the diesel engine running smoothly and quietly.

Best for: Diesel vehicle owners seeking an effective additive to improve engine performance and protect fuel system components.

Pros:

• Raises cetane levels for better combustion and throttle response
• Cleans internal and external injector deposits efficiently
• Enhances fuel lubricity to protect pumps and injectors
• Reduces moisture-related rust and fuel degradation

Cons:

• Precise dosing may be needed to prevent injector or pump issues
• Bottle cap sealing might be less secure, increasing spill risk

STA-BIL Diesel All-Season Fuel Additive (20 fl. oz., 15226)

STA-BIL Diesel All-Season Fuel Additive is designed to protect diesel engines in extreme cold and during long storage periods. It offers reliable anti-gel performance down to -40°F, ensuring your fuel flows smoothly even in harsh winter conditions.

This additive also cleans and lubricates your entire fuel system. It improves engine performance by boosting cetane levels, which helps with faster ignition and increased power.

Water in fuel can cause serious problems. STA-BIL separates water from fuel, preventing damage and corrosion in your engine. It is compatible with all diesel engines, including those using biodiesel blends.

Each 20 fl. oz. bottle treats up to 150 gallons of diesel, making it a practical choice for maintaining fuel quality year-round. Using this additive regularly can help reduce maintenance issues and ensure your engine starts smoothly every time.

Best for: Diesel engine operators who require dependable fuel protection in cold climates or during extended equipment storage.

Pros:

• Provides effective anti-gel protection down to -40°F.
• Cleans and lubricates the fuel system while enhancing ignition with boosted cetane.
• Separates water from fuel to prevent water-related engine problems.
• Compatible with all diesel engines, including biodiesel.

Cons:

• May be unnecessary in regions with consistently mild climates that do not experience cold weather.

Hot Shots Secret Diesel Extreme Clean and Boost (16 fl. oz.)

Hot Shots Secret Diesel Extreme Clean and Boost (16 fl. oz.) offers a comprehensive solution for diesel engine maintenance. It raises cetane levels by up to 7 points, which helps improve combustion and power output. This additive works by effectively removing tough deposits from critical engine parts like injectors and valves.

It also includes military-grade rust and corrosion inhibitors to stabilize fuel and protect vital components. Adding this product during refueling helps prevent rust and keeps the engine running smoothly. The formula is designed to support both newer and older diesel engines.

For best results, add 8 ounces per 20 gallons of fuel or every 6,000 miles. Regular use promotes smoother starts, enhanced horsepower, and improved fuel economy. This makes it a practical choice for maintaining engine cleanliness and performance.

Best for: Diesel vehicle owners looking to enhance engine efficiency and protect components, especially when using lower-quality diesel or caring for older engines.

Pros:

• Removes internal and external diesel deposits to improve engine function.
• Boosts cetane rating for smoother starts and better fuel efficiency.
• Contains high-grade rust and corrosion inhibitors for fuel stabilization.
• Supports engine performance with regular use.

Cons:

• May require consistent application for optimal effects.
• Might not restore already damaged engine parts.

Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost 64oz Bottle (6 Pack)

Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost 64oz Bottle (6 Pack) is designed to enhance diesel engine performance. It increases cetane by up to 6 numbers, which helps reduce power lag and supports faster starts, especially in cold weather. This treatment promotes smoother engine operation and better responsiveness.

Each 64oz bottle provides thorough fuel system cleaning. It effectively removes deposits and prevents injector sticking, ensuring your engine runs efficiently. The formula works with all diesel fuels, including ULSD and biodiesel blends, making it versatile for various diesel engines.

This product is suitable for both modern High Pressure Common Rail systems and older diesel engines. Regular use helps maintain engine cleanliness and reliable starts. The six-pack supply offers a comprehensive solution for ongoing fuel system care.

Best for: Diesel engine owners who want to improve engine responsiveness, ensure smooth operation, and support cold starts across diverse diesel fuel types.

Pros:

• Increases cetane rating by up to 6 numbers for quicker engine starts.
• Cleans fuel injectors and prevents sticking, maintaining efficiency.
• Compatible with all diesel fuels, including ULSD and biodiesel blends.
• Suitable for both modern and older diesel engine systems.

Cons:

• Sold only as a six-pack, which may be more than needed for occasional users.

Ford Powerstroke Diesel 6.0L Engine Cetane Booster (12 Pack)

The Ford Powerstroke Diesel 6.0L Engine Cetane Booster (12 Pack) is specially designed for Ford Powerstroke diesel engines. It enhances fuel combustion, leading to improved engine power and better fuel efficiency. Each bottle contains a precise formula that supports smoother engine performance and reduces noise.

Adding the booster is simple and accurate. Use four ounces per 30 gallons of diesel fuel, guided by the bottle’s graduated markings. This ensures consistent dosing for optimal results. The product is tailored to meet Ford’s specific fuel additive requirements.

This cetane booster helps to reduce engine knocking and promotes a quieter ride. Many users find that it enhances overall engine responsiveness, particularly in Powerstroke models. The 12-pack provides enough supply for regular maintenance.

Best for: Truck owners and diesel engine enthusiasts aiming to improve performance and fuel economy in Ford Powerstroke diesel engines.

Pros:

• Enhances engine power and fuel efficiency
• Promotes smoother and quieter engine operation
• Accurate dosing with graduated bottle markings
• Bulk pack supports regular use and maintenance

Cons:

• May require careful measurement to avoid overuse

Power Service Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost – 12 Ounce (Pack of 9)

Power Service Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost is a specially formulated diesel additive designed to improve fuel performance and engine health. It effectively cleans both internal and external injector deposits, helping to reduce sticking and injector noise. This additive also enhances cetane levels, promoting smoother combustion and better engine response.

Each 12-ounce bottle provides the right dosage for a full tank, making it convenient and easy to use. It is compatible with all diesel fuels, including biodiesel blends, which makes it versatile for various diesel engines. The formula contains lubricants that protect fuel system components like pumps and injectors from wear caused by ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuels.

While Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost works well in most conditions, it is not formulated for extreme cold weather use. For temperatures below 30°F, a winter-specific additive is recommended. Users report noticeable improvements in engine smoothness and fuel economy after consistent application.

Best for: Diesel vehicle owners looking to maintain clean fuel injectors and improve engine performance with a reliable cetane-enhancing additive.

Pros:

• Cleans internal and external injector deposits to reduce sticking and noise.
• Boosts cetane for better combustion and smoother engine operation.
• Contains lubricants that protect fuel pumps and injectors from wear.
• Convenient single-dose bottles ensure correct dosing per fill-up.

Cons:

• May not be suitable for extreme cold temperatures below +30°F.

Lucas Oil 11032 Cetane Power Booster – 64 Ounce

Lucas Oil 11032 Cetane Power Booster is a powerful diesel additive designed to improve engine performance. This 64-ounce formula helps lubricate high-pressure fuel pumps and reduces injector deposits. It cleans the fuel system to enhance power and fuel economy.

Adding just 3-4 ounces per gallon of diesel ensures proper mixing and optimal results. The booster promotes smoother idling and easier startups while supporting longer engine life. It is compatible with all diesel engines, especially those with modern high-pressure fuel injection systems.

Regular use can improve fuel efficiency and reduce engine wear by over 27%. The product supports cleaner combustion, which helps maintain engine health and performance over time.

Best for: Diesel vehicle owners seeking to enhance engine efficiency and protect sensitive fuel injection systems.

Pros:

• Cleans fuel system and reduces injector deposits
• Improves power output and fuel economy
• Lubricates fuel pumps, reducing engine wear

Cons:

• Effects may develop gradually with consistent use

Top Diesel Cetane Boosters: Performance at a Glance

Product	Cetane Boost	Treatment Ratio	Key Benefits	Best For
Hot Shots Secret Everyday	Up to 7 points	1-2 oz per 25 gal	6-in-1 formula, injector cleaning, moisture prevention	Daily drivers, fleet vehicles
Archoil AR6500	Advanced boost	1 bottle per 800 gal	Fuel efficiency, DPF regen reduction, throttle response	High-mileage vehicles
Ford PM-22-A	2 points	8 oz per 20 gal	Alkyl nitrate-free, corrosion prevention, cold starts	Ford/Ram engines
Stanadyne Performance	Moderate boost	Variable dosing	All-season protection, OEM approved, fuel gelling prevention	Commercial fleets
STA-BIL Diesel	Cetane enhancement	1 bottle per 150 gal	-40°F protection, water separation, storage stability	Cold climate operation
Power Service Kleen	Up to 6 numbers	1 bottle per tank	Injector cleaning, ULSD/biodiesel compatible, cold weather	General maintenance
Lucas Cetane Power	Significant boost	3-4 oz per gallon	27% wear reduction, high-pressure pump protection	Performance vehicles

How to Choose the Right Cetane Booster for Your Engine?

When choosing a diesel cetane booster, you want to focus on:

Cetane Number Increase

Because raising the cetane number directly improves diesel ignition quality, you’ll notice smoother starts and more efficient combustion. When choosing a cetane booster, consider how much it can increase your fuel’s cetane rating—most products raise it by 2 to 7 points.

This boost reduces engine knocking, pinging, and harmful emissions, helping your engine run quieter and cleaner. You’ll also benefit from quicker cold starts and sharper throttle response, especially in low temperatures.

Keep in mind that your vehicle performs best with a cetane number of 45 or higher, so select a booster that helps you reach or maintain that level based on your current fuel quality.

Fuel System Compatibility

Choosing the right diesel cetane booster means you need to guarantee it functions seamlessly with your vehicle’s fuel system. First, verify the booster suits your specific system type, whether High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) or an older setup, to avoid damage.

Check that it’s compatible with all diesel fuels you use, including Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD), biodiesel, or blends, preserving proper fuel chemistry. You also want to confirm the additive won’t react negatively with sensitive components like fuel pumps and injectors.

If you operate in cold climates or areas prone to moisture, pick a booster that demulsifies water and prevents fuel gelling. Finally, look for products certified or approved for your vehicle’s make or fuel system to ensure reliable performance and protection.

Injector Cleaning Ability

Although diesel cetane boosters primarily enhance ignition quality, their ability to clean fuel injectors plays a crucial role in maintaining engine performance. You should choose a booster with detergents that effectively remove internal deposits and varnish buildup, ensuring fuel injectors stay clean.

Regular use prevents injector sticking and improves spray patterns, which leads to more efficient combustion. A strong cleaning additive reduces clogging, maintaining ideal fuel atomization and overall engine efficiency.

Additionally, cleaning external deposits restores proper injector spray and quick response times, improving throttle feel. By consistently using a high-quality injector cleaning additive, you extend the lifespan of your fuel system components by minimizing wear caused by deposits.

Lubrication Properties

Keeping your fuel injectors clean goes hand in hand with ensuring they’re well-lubricated. When choosing a diesel cetane booster, look for one that provides strong lubrication properties.

These additives reduce wear on fuel pumps and injectors by supplying essential lubricants, which minimize friction and prevent premature failure. Proper lubrication also stops internal deposits and injector sticking, helping your engine run smoother and quieter.

With modern high-pressure fuel systems demanding tight tolerances, enhanced lubricity is vital for maintaining component integrity. Plus, better lubrication can improve cold-start performance, reducing noise and wear during those critical moments.

Moisture and Corrosion Control

When moisture gets into your diesel fuel, it can cause corrosion and promote microbial growth that damages your fuel system and lowers engine performance. To protect your engine, choose a cetane booster with water separation additives that break down moisture, allowing you to drain it before corrosion starts.

Look for corrosion inhibitors that create a protective film on metal parts, stopping rust and wear inside injectors and fuel pumps. Controlling moisture and corrosion not only maintains fuel quality but also reduces injector sticking and extends the life of critical components.

If you operate in humid climates or store diesel equipment long-term, regularly using additives with these features is especially important to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently.

Usage and Dosage Guidelines

Proper usage and dosage of diesel cetane boosters play a vital role in maximizing their benefits, especially after addressing moisture and corrosion concerns. You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage, usually 1 to 2 ounces per 25 gallons of diesel, to guarantee ideal fuel treatment.

Measure the additive accurately with the provided dosing device to avoid over- or under-treatment that might damage your engine. Add the booster during refueling at the start of each tank to keep fuel quality consistent.

Keep in mind that factors like fuel quality, engine type, and environmental conditions—such as colder temperatures—may require dosage adjustments. Sticking to the recommended amount helps prevent engine knocking, improves combustion efficiency, and reduces the risk of fuel system deposits or damage.

Performance Improvement Effects

Although you might focus on dosage and compatibility, choosing a diesel cetane booster should also hinge on the performance improvements it delivers.

Boosters that raise cetane levels by up to 7 points can lead to smoother combustion and less engine knocking. You’ll notice quicker cold starts and improved engine response, especially in chilly conditions.

Enhanced cetane ratings promote more complete combustion, which can boost fuel economy and cut emissions. Using a quality cetane booster regularly helps reduce engine stuttering, hesitation, and power lag during acceleration.

These performance gains often translate into increased horsepower, quieter operation, and more efficient fuel burn. Prioritizing these benefits guarantees you pick a booster that truly enhances your diesel engine’s overall performance and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Cetane Boosters Affect Diesel Engine Emissions?

You’ll notice cetane boosters gently help your diesel engine breathe cleaner by promoting smoother combustion. They encourage quicker ignition, which means fuel burns more completely, reducing those unwelcome exhaust pollutants.

This not only eases the strain on the environment but also helps your engine run quieter and more efficiently. So, by adding cetane boosters, you’re making your diesel engine’s emissions a bit more neighborly and responsible.

Can Cetane Boosters Damage Engine Components Over Time?

Cetane boosters, when used properly and in recommended amounts, won’t damage your engine components over time. They improve combustion quality, which can actually reduce wear and deposits.

However, using excessive or low-quality boosters might cause issues like clogged injectors or seals deterioration. Always stick to trusted brands and follow guidelines to keep your engine running smoothly without harm.

Are Cetane Boosters Safe for Use in All Diesel Engines?

You might worry that cetane boosters act like a harsh chemical, eating away at your engine’s parts. But you’ll be glad to know they’re generally safe for use in all diesel engines when used as directed. Just avoid overusing them or mixing incompatible additives.

When you follow the instructions, these boosters improve combustion without harming your engine, helping it run smoother and more efficiently without risking damage.

How Often Should Cetane Boosters Be Added to Diesel Fuel?

You should add cetane boosters every time you fill up your diesel tank to maintain consistent engine performance. However, frequency depends on your specific booster’s instructions and your engine’s needs.

Some users add it only during colder months or before long trips. Always follow the product guidelines, and don’t overuse it, as that won’t improve performance further.

Do Cetane Boosters Improve Fuel Economy in Cold Weather?

Think of cetane boosters as a warm blanket for your diesel engine in cold weather. Yes, they do improve fuel economy by enhancing ignition quality, which helps your engine start more smoothly and burn fuel more efficiently when temperatures drop.

This means less wasted fuel and better performance. So, when the cold hits, adding a cetane booster can keep your engine running economically and reliably, saving you money at the pump.

Transform Your Diesel Performance with These Cetane Boosters

Choosing the right diesel cetane booster can feel like finding a needle in a haystack, but with these top picks, you’re already miles ahead. Whether you want to boost performance, clean injectors, or improve fuel efficiency, these additives have you covered.

Don’t settle for sluggish starts or rough idling—grab one of these powerhouse treatments and watch your engine roar like never before. Your diesel deserves nothing less than the best!

Last update on 2025-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API