When you rely on your diesel truck for towing heavy loads, fuel quality matters. We researched and compared the top diesel additives on the market, evaluating manufacturer specifications, published industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback to find which products deliver real towing improvements. Our guide covers cetane boost, lubricity, injector cleaning, and cold-weather performance. Whether you drive a Ford Power Stroke, Ram Cummins, or Chevy Duramax, these picks help you get the most out of every gallon while towing.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Opti-Lube XPD Best Overall for Towing Cetane boost: 4-7 points; Lubricity: 60% wear reduction |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme Best Cetane Booster Cetane boost: up to 8 points; Treats 100 gallons per bottle |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Stanadyne Performance Formula Best for Injector Cleaning Cleans injectors in one treatment; Lubricity additive included |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost Best Value for Towing Cetane boost: 4-6 points; Treats 100 gallons per bottle |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Lucas Oil 10063 Fuel Treatment Best for Lubricity Lubricity additive; Treats 60 gallons per bottle |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Howes Diesel Treat Best for Winter Towing Anti-gel protection down to -40°F; Treats 100 gallons |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Archoil AR6200 Diesel Fuel Additive Best for Fuel Economy Cetane boost: 3-5 points; Lubricity additive included |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Opti-Lube XPD: Best Overall for Towing
In our evaluation, Opti-Lube XPD stands out as the most complete additive for towing. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, it delivers a 4-7 point cetane boost and reduces fuel system wear by 60% in HFRR testing. This translates to quicker starts, less smoke, and better throttle response when pulling heavy loads. The lubricity package is especially important for modern common-rail injection systems that rely on fuel for pump lubrication.
However, Opti-Lube XPD is more expensive per treatment than many competitors. If you’re on a tight budget or only tow occasionally, a basic cetane booster may suffice. But for those who tow regularly and want maximum protection and performance, this additive is worth the premium. Skip it if you need a winter anti-gel formula, as Opti-Lube sells a separate winter product.
- Combines cetane boost, lubricity, and injector cleaner in one formula
- Reduces fuel system wear by 60% in industry-standard testing
- Works with all diesel types including ULSD and biodiesel blends
Pros: Excellent wear protection for high-pressure fuel pumps; Noticeable improvement in engine smoothness under load
Cons: Higher cost per treatment than basic additives
2. Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme: Best Cetane Booster
Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme earned a top spot in our research for its strong cetane boost of up to 8 points. We compared owner reports and found that many experienced improved throttle response and reduced smoke when towing heavy trailers. The demulsifier helps keep water out of the fuel system, which is critical for injector longevity. One bottle treats 100 gallons, making it a good value for frequent towers.
The main limitation is that it does not provide cold-weather anti-gel protection. If you tow in subfreezing temperatures, you’ll need to pair it with a winter additive or choose a different product. Also, some users noted that the high cetane boost can cause a slight increase in fuel consumption in light-load driving, though this is negligible under tow.
- High-concentration cetane booster for immediate power gain
- Includes demulsifier to separate water from fuel
- Compatible with all diesel engines and fuel types
Pros: Noticeable power increase when towing uphill; Helps reduce engine knock and noise
Cons: Does not include winter anti-gel properties
3. Stanadyne Performance Formula: Best for Injector Cleaning
Stanadyne Performance Formula is our top pick for injector cleaning. Based on manufacturer specs and owner feedback, it uses a high-detergent formula that removes carbon deposits in a single treatment. Many towers reported regaining lost power and fuel economy after using it, especially if they had been running low-quality fuel. It also provides lubricity to protect the fuel pump.
However, its cetane boost is only around 2-3 points, so if you’re looking for a significant power increase, you might be disappointed. It is best used as a periodic cleaner rather than a daily additive. Skip it if you already have clean injectors and need a stronger cetane booster for towing.
- Detergent formula removes carbon deposits from injectors
- Restores lost power and fuel economy from dirty injectors
- Approved by major diesel engine manufacturers
Pros: Effective at cleaning injectors without removal; Restores towing performance lost to deposit buildup
Cons: Cetane boost is modest compared to dedicated boosters
4. Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost: Best Value for Towing
Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost is a popular choice among towers for its balance of performance and price. In our research, it consistently delivers a 4-6 point cetane boost and helps clean injectors. Owner feedback highlights reduced smoke and slightly better fuel economy when towing. It also includes a lubricity additive, though independent tests show it is less effective than Opti-Lube or Hot Shot’s Secret.
The main drawback is that the lubricity protection may not be sufficient for high-mileage trucks or those with modified fuel systems. Also, the formula does not include anti-gel properties. If you need maximum protection for a modern common-rail engine, consider a more robust additive. But for most towers on a budget, this is a solid choice.
- Affordable cetane boost and injector cleaner combo
- Reduces smoke and improves fuel economy under load
- Contains lubricity additive for fuel system protection
Pros: Very good value for the performance gain; Widely available at auto parts stores and online
Cons: Lubricity performance is not as strong as premium additives
5. Lucas Oil 10063 Fuel Treatment: Best for Lubricity
Lucas Oil 10063 Fuel Treatment is a dedicated lubricity additive that we found effective for protecting fuel pumps, especially in older diesel engines. Based on owner feedback, it helps quiet noisy injectors and reduces wear in high-mileage trucks. It also stabilizes fuel, which is useful for trucks that sit idle between towing jobs.
However, it does not significantly boost cetane, so you won’t feel a power increase when towing. If you need both lubricity and performance, a combined additive like Opti-Lube is better. Skip this if you want improved throttle response or cold-weather protection. It works best as a supplementary treatment for lubrication-focused maintenance.
- Heavy-duty lubricity formula for fuel pump protection
- Reduces friction and wear in injection system
- Can be used in both diesel and gasoline engines
Pros: Excellent lubricity for older diesel engines; Stabilizes fuel for long-term storage
Cons: Minimal cetane boost, little power gain
6. Howes Diesel Treat: Best for Winter Towing
Howes Diesel Treat is our top pick for towers who operate in cold climates. It prevents fuel gelling down to -40°F, ensuring your truck starts and runs when you need it for towing. The formula also includes a cetane improver and lubricity additives, though the boost is lower than dedicated performance products. Owner feedback in northern states confirms its effectiveness in preventing fuel filter clogging.
However, its cetane boost is only 2-3 points, so if you primarily tow in warm weather, you’ll get more power from a dedicated booster. Also, the lubricity is adequate but not class-leading. Skip this if you rarely encounter freezing temperatures; a performance additive will serve you better.
- Prevents fuel gelling in extreme cold
- Contains cetane improver and lubricity additives
- Safe for all diesel engines including DEF systems
Pros: Reliable anti-gel performance in harsh winters; All-in-one winter formula with some performance boost
Cons: Cetane boost is modest (2-3 points)
7. Archoil AR6200 Diesel Fuel Additive: Best for Fuel Economy
Archoil AR6200 is formulated with a friction modifier that can improve fuel economy, which we found beneficial for towers who log many miles. Based on owner feedback, it reduces engine noise and vibration, making long hauls more comfortable. It also cleans injectors and provides lubricity. In our research, some users reported up to 5% better fuel economy when towing moderate loads.
However, the cetane boost is only 3-5 points, so if you need maximum power for heavy towing, a stronger booster may be better. Also, the fuel economy gains are less pronounced under heavy loads. Skip this if you prioritize raw power over efficiency.
- Friction modifier reduces internal engine friction
- Improves fuel economy by up to 5% in some tests
- Cleans injectors and prevents deposit buildup
Pros: Noticeable fuel economy improvement in light to moderate towing; Reduces engine noise and vibration
Cons: Cetane boost is lower than some competitors
Frequently Asked Questions
Do diesel additives really help with towing?
Yes, based on our research and owner feedback. Diesel additives that boost cetane improve combustion efficiency, leading to more power and less smoke under load. Lubricity additives protect fuel pumps and injectors, which are under extra stress during towing. Many towers report noticeable improvements in throttle response and fuel economy after using a quality additive.
What is the most important feature in a diesel additive for towing?
Cetane boost is the most important for immediate power gains. A higher cetane number means shorter ignition delay, which results in smoother, more complete combustion. For towing, a boost of 4-7 points is ideal. Lubricity is also critical for protecting the fuel system, especially in modern common-rail engines.
Can I use a diesel additive in any diesel truck?
Most additives are compatible with all diesel engines, including Ford Power Stroke, Ram Cummins, Chevy Duramax, and older mechanical injection systems. However, always check the label for compatibility with your specific engine and emissions system (DPF, DEF). Some additives may affect emissions components, so choose those that are safe for aftertreatment systems.
How often should I use a diesel additive when towing?
For best results, use an additive with every fill-up when towing. Many products are designed for continuous use. If you only tow occasionally, using it on those trips is sufficient. For injector cleaning additives, a single treatment every 3,000-5,000 miles is recommended to maintain performance.
Is it safe to mix different diesel additives?
Generally, it is not recommended to mix additives because chemical interactions can reduce effectiveness or cause issues. Stick with one product that meets your needs. If you need both winter protection and cetane boost, choose a product that combines both features rather than mixing two separate additives.
Our Verdict
Our top pick for the best diesel additive for towing is Opti-Lube XPD, offering the best balance of cetane boost, lubricity, and injector cleaning. For a more budget-friendly option, Power Service Diesel Kleen + Cetane Boost is a solid runner-up that delivers good performance at a lower cost.
