A strong diesel additive for a Cummins should match the engine’s fuel-system needs with useful injector cleaning, lubricity support, cetane improvement, or deposit control. That makes this selection relevant to owners of modern high-pressure common-rail trucks as well as older diesel systems. The products differ substantially: some are everyday treatments, some are concentrated cleaners, and others are large-volume formulas for repeated filling.
Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost, Hot Shot’s Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment, Archoil AR6500, and Stanadyne Performance Formula emphasize ongoing fuel-system support, while Archoil’s two-step kit targets a deeper initial clean followed by maintenance. Capacity and treatment range also matter, especially when choosing between a 16-ounce bottle, a gallon, or a multi-bottle case.
For a Cummins owner seeking broad everyday support, choose a diesel additive whose stated features match the fuel system and maintenance goal. Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost combines injector cleaning, cetane support, and lubricity for ULSD, biodiesel, and blends. Archoil AR6500 emphasizes repeated fill-up use and treats up to 400 gallons per 40-ounce bottle.
For a deeper cleaning sequence, Archoil’s kit pairs AR6400-D with AR6500. Hot Shot’s Secret EDT is a compact routine-treatment option with cetane improvement of up to 7 points.
Diesel Additive Comparison for Cummins Engines
How We Compared These Products
We compared dimensions, capacity, materials, compatibility, included components, and care requirements across many Amazon listings. These details matter because the product must fit the available space, intended use, setup requirements, and maintenance routine. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from Power Service, Hot Shot’s Secret, Archoil, Lucas Oil, Liqui Moly, Opti-Lube, and Stanadyne.
The shortlist includes products such as Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost 64 oz, Hot Shot’s Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment EDT, and Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment (40 oz) Two Pack – Treats 800 Gallons. Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.
Detailed Reviews: Best Diesel Additive For Cummins
1. Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost 64 oz, Pack of 1 3064-06 Grey
Best for: Injector cleaning and lubrication.
Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost offers a dual-action formula designed to clean injectors and prevent sticking in both High Pressure Common Rail and older diesel systems. It effectively removes deposits and contains Slickdiesel Lubricator for vital protection.
This additive cleans both internal and external deposits on fuel injectors, restoring lost power and fuel economy. The included Slickdiesel Lubricator is crucial for protecting fuel pumps and injectors from the increased wear associated with Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel. It is effective in all diesel fuels, including biodiesel blends.
Product Details
| Brand | Power Service |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 4 pounds |
| Item model number | 3064-06 |
| Manufacturer | Power Service |
| Part Number | 3064-06 |
| Model | 3064-06 |
| Dimensions | 3.4 x 6.75 x 10.3 inches |
Pros
- Cleans dirty injectors
- Prevents injector sticking
- Restores lost power and fuel economy
- Protects fuel pumps and injectors
Cons
- Contains chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects in California.
Ideal for diesel owners seeking to maintain injector cleanliness and protect fuel system components, especially when using ULSD fuel. Ensure awareness of California Proposition 65 warning.
2. Hot Shot’s Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment EDT, 16 oz
Best for: Everyday performance and fuel economy.
Hot Shot's Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment is formulated for regular use to maintain engine health and improve performance. It is designed to keep your diesel engine running smoothly and efficiently with consistent application.
This everyday treatment enhances vehicle performance by boosting cetane levels by up to 7 points, leading to improved fuel economy. Regular use ensures your engine operates efficiently, providing peace of mind on the road. It is a liquid additive with a volume of 473 ml.
Product Details
| Brand | Hot Shot's Secret |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Bottle |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 473 ml |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Lubrication Specialties, Inc |
| Model Number | HSSEDT16ZS |
Additional Product Information
| Size | 16 Fl Oz Squeeze |
|---|---|
| Warranty Description | 100% Money Back Guarantee |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Pros
- Improves performance
- Maintains engine health
- Boosts cetane levels
- Enhances fuel economy
Cons
- Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Suitable for daily use by diesel owners looking to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency. Best utilized as a consistent maintenance additive for ongoing benefits.
3. Power Service Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost – 12 Ounce (Pack of 9)
Best for: Injector cleaning and performance boost.
Power Service Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost in a 12-ounce pack of nine provides a comprehensive solution for injector cleaning and performance improvement. It is engineered to maximize the benefits of modern cleaner-burning fuels.
This additive cleans injectors, boosts cetane, and lubricates fuel injection components, restoring lost power and fuel economy. It effectively removes internal and external deposits from injectors, ensuring optimal operation in both High Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) and older diesel systems.
Product Details
| Brand | Power Service |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 8 pounds |
| Item model number | 3012-09 |
| Manufacturer | Power Service |
| Part Number | 3012-09 |
| Model | 3012-09 |
| Package Dimensions | 10.6 x 10.2 x 9 inches |
Pros
- Cleans injectors thoroughly
- Boosts cetane for better combustion
- Lubricates fuel injection components
- Restores lost power and fuel economy
Cons
- Contains chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects in California.
An excellent choice for those needing a multi-pack of injector cleaner and performance enhancer for regular maintenance. Ideal for maintaining engine responsiveness and efficiency.
4. Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment (40 oz) Two Pack – Treats 800 Gallons, Diesel Fuel Additive – Lubricity Improver, Injector Cleaner, DPF & Turbo Deposit Control, Cetane Booster
Best for: Comprehensive fuel system protection.
Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment, offered in a two-pack of 40 oz bottles, is designed for use at every fill-up to treat up to 800 gallons. It functions as a lubricity improver, injector cleaner, DPF & turbo deposit control, and cetane booster.
This additive improves lubricity by 43% (ASTM D6079) to protect fuel system components, including wear-sensitive parts. It is suitable for all diesel engines, including modern HPCR systems, and helps control deposits in DPF and turbo systems, ensuring optimal engine operation.
Product Details
| Brand | Archoil |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 6.2 pounds |
| Item model number | AR6500-TP |
| Manufacturer | Archoil |
| Part Number | AR6500-TP |
| Model | AR6500 Diesel Treatment Two Pack |
| Dimensions | 6 x 6 x 10 inches |
Pros
- Improves lubricity by 43%
- Cleans injectors and controls deposits
- Boosts cetane for better combustion
- Suitable for all diesel engines
Cons
- Warning: Do not add to any lit or burning devices – risk of explosive burst.
A robust, all-season treatment for diesel owners seeking to enhance lubricity, clean injectors, and protect DPF/turbo systems. Best for those who want a single product for multiple protection needs at each fill-up.
5. Archoil Diesel Fuel System Kit – AR6400-D (12 oz) + AR6500 (40 oz) – Complete Restoration For All Diesel Engines, Injector Cleaner, Lubricity Improver, DPF & Turbo Deposit Control, Cetane Booster
Best for: Two-step fuel system restoration.
The Archoil Diesel Fuel System Kit provides a complete restoration solution with a two-step approach, including AR6400-D for deep cleaning and AR6500 for ongoing maintenance. It is suitable for all diesel engines, including modern HPCR systems.
This kit offers a deep clean with AR6400-D, followed by AR6500 for continuous protection at every fill-up. It cleans injectors, restores engine response, improves lubricity, and controls deposits in DPF and turbo systems, ensuring comprehensive fuel system health and performance.
Product Details
| Brand | Archoil |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 40 fluid ounces |
| Item Volume | 976 ml |
| Manufacturer | Archoil |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 2) |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Pros
- Two-step cleaning and maintenance
- Cleans injectors and restores response
- Improves lubricity
- Controls DPF and turbo deposits
Cons
- Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Ideal for diesel owners looking for a complete fuel system overhaul and ongoing protection. Best for those who want a structured approach to cleaning and maintaining their diesel engine.
6. Lucas Oil 10013 Fuel Treatment – 1 Gallon
Best for: Universal fuel system cleaner and enhancer.
Lucas Oil 10013 Fuel Treatment, a 1-gallon container, is recognized as a leading fuel additive for both gasoline and diesel engines. It functions as a tune-up in a bottle, cleaning and lubricating the entire fuel system.
This treatment cleans and lubricates fuel injectors, carburetors, and combustion chambers, improving fuel economy by burning excess exhaust emissions. It increases power and acceleration by enhancing fuel flow and reducing deposit buildup, while also neutralizing sulfur and other contaminants.
Product Details
| Brand | Lucas Oil |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car |
| Container Type | Bottle |
| Included Components | Lucas Oil Fuel Treatment |
| Manufacturer | Lucas Oil |
| Part Number | 10013 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 30 Days |
Additional Product Information
| Model Number | LUC10013 |
|---|---|
| Size | 128 Fluid Ounce |
Pros
- Cleans and lubricates fuel system
- Improves fuel economy
- Increases power and acceleration
- Neutralizes harmful contaminants
Cons
- Contains chemicals known to cause cancer and reproductive harm in California.
A versatile, large-volume treatment for owners of both gasoline and diesel vehicles seeking to clean their fuel system and boost overall engine performance. Suitable for extensive use.
7. Liqui Moly Super Diesel Additive | 300 ml | Diesel additive | SKU: 2002
Best for: Cetane boost and fuel system maintenance.
Liqui Moly Super Diesel Additive is a high-test diesel additive designed to keep the fuel system in perfect working order. It acts as a cetane booster and provides lubrication to reduce wear on fuel pumps and injectors.
This additive increases the cetane value for improved engine performance, easier starting, and lower emissions. It prevents corrosion and increases lubrication, thereby reducing fuel pump and injector wear. Regular use ensures the diesel fuel system remains clean and efficient.
Product Details
| Brand | Liqui Moly |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 6.4 ounces |
| Item model number | 2002 |
| Manufacturer | Liqui Moly |
| Part Number | 2002 |
| Model | 2002 |
| Dimensions | 5.8 x 3.2 x 3 inches |
Additional Product Information
| Voltage | 12 volts |
|---|---|
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Pros
- Boosts cetane for better performance
- Keeps fuel system clean
- Prevents corrosion
- Reduces fuel pump and injector wear
Cons
- Contains chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects in California.
Recommended for diesel drivers aiming to enhance combustion, improve starting, and protect their fuel system components from wear and corrosion. Best for regular preventative maintenance.
8. Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme, 16 oz, Fuel System Cleaner
Best for: Complete diesel fuel system cleaner.
Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme is a 16 oz fuel system cleaner formulated to remove harmful deposits, water, and sludge while enhancing cetane for smoother combustion. It delivers performance benefits for optimal diesel engine operation.
This advanced diesel fuel additive contains cumene to improve fuel quality and combustion efficiency, resulting in easier starts, stronger acceleration, and reduced emissions. It works throughout the entire fuel system to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
Product Details
| Brand | Hot Shot's Secret |
|---|---|
| Container Type | Bottle |
| Included Components | Diesel Extreme Fuel Additive 16 Oz Bottle |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 473 ml |
| Item Weight | 0.45 kg |
| Manufacturer | Hot Shot's Secret |
Additional Product Information
| Material Features | Fragrance Free |
|---|---|
| Model Number | DIESELEXT16 |
| Size | 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Not_Performance_Used |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year Limited |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Pros
- Cleans entire fuel system
- Removes deposits, water, and sludge
- Improves cetane for smoother combustion
- Enhances acceleration and reduces emissions
Cons
- Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
An intensive cleaner for diesel owners experiencing performance issues or seeking a deep clean of their fuel system. Ideal for addressing deposit buildup and improving overall engine response.
9. Opti-Lube XPD All-Season Diesel Fuel Additive – Gallon (1 Gallon (Treats 512 Gallons))
Best for: All-season fuel additive.
Opti-Lube XPD All-Season Diesel Fuel Additive comes in a 1-gallon size, treating up to 512 gallons of diesel fuel. Its formula is designed to improve performance and enhance fuel mileage year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
This additive works to improve the performance of your truck throughout the year, in rain, snow, or shine. It helps separate water from diesel fuel and has been shown to enhance fuel mileage, providing more value. It keeps diesel engines running at their best.
Product Details
| Brand | Opti-Lube |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 7.73 pounds |
| Item model number | OPT-XPD1-NA |
| Manufacturer | Opti-Lube |
| Part Number | OPT-XPD1-NA |
| Dimensions | 7 x 4.5 x 10 inches |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
Additional Product Information
| Additional Information | Important information |
|---|
Pros
- All-season performance enhancement
- Improves fuel mileage
- Helps separate water
- Keeps diesel running at its best
Cons
- Cloud point may be higher with Bio-Blends than with ULSD.
Suitable for diesel owners who need reliable performance and fuel economy enhancement throughout the year, especially in varying weather conditions. Best for those seeking consistent, year-round benefits.
10. Stanadyne Performance Formula Diesel Fuel Additive – 16 Oz. Case of 12
Best for: Performance formula for ULSD and biodiesel.
Stanadyne Performance Formula Diesel Fuel Additive is a 16 oz treatment designed to restore and increase horsepower while reducing fuel consumption. It acts as a cetane improver and lubricity enhancer for ultra low sulfur diesel fuels.
This additive cleans injection system deposits to restore horsepower and reduce fuel consumption, with tests showing an average of 4% MPG improvement. The cetane improver enhances combustion for better starting and reduced noise, while lubricity improvers combat wear from ULSD fuel.
Product Details
| Brand | Stanadyne |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 0.01 ounces |
| Item model number | add38565 |
| Manufacturer | Stanadyne |
| Part Number | 38565C |
| Dimensions | 11 x 9 x 10 inches |
| Special Features | Specially Formulated for use with ultra low sulfur diesel fuel Can be used with Bio Diesel Fuel up to B20 (20% bio content approved ) |
Additional Product Information
| Additional Information | Important information |
|---|
Pros
- Restores and increases horsepower
- Reduces fuel consumption
- Improves combustion and engine starting
- Restores lubricity to ULSD fuel
Cons
- Hazardous material, cannot ship by air transportation.
An excellent choice for diesel owners using ULSD or biodiesel blends (up to B20) who want to improve engine performance, fuel economy, and protect against wear. Not suitable for air shipment.
What Buyers Often Overlook
Treatment capacity and dosing format
Treatment capacity directly affects how practical an additive is for repeated Cummins fill-ups. Archoil AR6500 offers two 40-ounce bottles, with each bottle stated to treat up to 400 gallons, while Opti-Lube XPD is a one-gallon container identified as treating 512 gallons. These formats suit owners who want fewer purchases or a high-volume maintenance supply.
By contrast, Hot Shot’s Secret Everyday Diesel Treatment and Diesel Extreme come in 16-ounce bottles, and Liqui Moly Super Diesel Additive is a 300-milliliter bottle, making them more compact but less suited to high-volume storage based on the supplied data. Power Service is available as a 64-ounce bottle or a nine-pack of 12-ounce bottles, giving a choice between a larger container and smaller units.
Stanadyne’s case contains twelve 16-ounce bottles, each stated to treat 60 gallons.
The Key Product Trade-Off
Cleaner, lubricity, and fuel-system fit
The main category trade-off is whether you need routine protection, a concentrated cleaning step, or both. Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost states that it cleans internal and external injector deposits, helps prevent injector sticking in HPCR and older systems, and includes a lubricator for fuel pumps and injectors. Archoil’s Diesel Fuel System Kit separates the jobs: AR6400-D provides an initial cleaner for 30–40 gallons, followed by AR6500 for ongoing treatment.
Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme is described as a complete fuel-system cleaner that addresses deposits, water, and sludge while improving cetane. Liqui Moly emphasizes corrosion prevention, lubrication, injector and pump wear reduction, and easier starting.
Stanadyne is formulated for ULSD and can be used with biodiesel up to B20, while several other products state compatibility with broader diesel or biodiesel blends.
Best Diesel Additive For Cummins: Buyer's Guide
Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility
Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.
Capacity, Output, and Operating Format
Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.
Materials, Construction, and Care
Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.
Included Components and Setup Needs
Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost if your priority is a single product that combines injector cleaning, cetane support, and lubricity for ULSD, biodiesel, and blends. Choose Archoil AR6500 when a large stated treatment range and at-each-fill-up use matter. Select the Archoil Diesel Fuel System Kit when you want a defined deep-clean-then-maintain sequence.
Hot Shot’s Secret EDT fits routine treatment in a compact 16-ounce bottle, while Diesel Extreme is aimed at a more comprehensive cleaning action involving deposits, water, and sludge. Opti-Lube XPD suits high-volume users, and Stanadyne fits owners looking for ULSD-focused support with B20 compatibility.
Lucas Oil offers a gallon format for diesel and gasoline use, while Liqui Moly provides a small fuel-system maintenance bottle.
Quick Buying Checklist
- Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
- Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
- Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
- Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
- Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
- Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I use a diesel additive?
Most additives can be used with every fuel fill-up for continuous benefits. Some heavy-duty cleaners are recommended for periodic use, perhaps every few thousand miles or as per the product’s specific instructions. Always check the label for the best usage frequency for your chosen product.
Will diesel additives improve my Cummins' fuel economy?
Yes, many diesel additives are formulated to improve fuel economy. By cleaning injectors and improving combustion efficiency, these products can help your engine run more smoothly and utilize fuel more effectively, potentially leading to better mileage.
Can diesel additives prevent fuel gelling in cold weather?
Some additives are specifically designed as anti-gel treatments for cold weather. They lower the fuel’s pour point, preventing it from solidifying and clogging filters. Look for ‘all-season’ or ‘winter’ formulations if cold weather performance is a priority.
What are the benefits of a cetane booster?
A cetane booster increases the cetane number of diesel fuel, which is a measure of its combustion quality. Higher cetane numbers lead to a smoother, more complete burn, resulting in easier starting, reduced engine noise, and improved power output.
Are diesel additives safe for all Cummins engines?
Generally, yes. Most additives are designed for all diesel engines, including Cummins. However, it’s always wise to check the product’s compatibility and recommended use for your specific engine model and any emissions systems it may have.
Final Words
For Cummins engines, selecting the right diesel additive depends on your needs, whether it’s daily cleaning, cold-weather protection, or a comprehensive system overhaul. Products offering a balance of cleaning, cetane boosting, and lubricity are often excellent choices for maintaining optimal engine performance and longevity.
