Can Diesel Engines Use Fuel Additives?
3 Answers
Diesel vehicles can use fuel additives. There are specialized diesel fuel additives designed for diesel engines, which help optimize fuel quality, clean the fuel system and injectors, promote uniform atomization, improve combustion efficiency, and extend engine lifespan. Below are specific details about fuel additives: Functions of Fuel Additives: Early diesel fuel additives mainly consisted of detergents, primarily used to clean carbon deposits. With the addition of detergents to refined gasoline and the use of high-clean gasoline, detergents lost their effectiveness. To meet market competition needs, the main component of 'fuel additives' gradually shifted from detergents to combustion enhancers. These enhancers can improve engine combustion efficiency, increase combustion temperature, boost cylinder pressure, and enhance engine power. Effects of Fuel Additives: Fuel additives containing combustion enhancers can erode spark plugs, reducing their functionality and shortening their lifespan. Additionally, since they alter the heat value of gasoline combustion, the thermal and mechanical loads on engine components increase, potentially causing damage to intake and exhaust valves, pistons, and cylinder walls. Short-term use may not have significant effects, but long-term use can shorten the engine's lifespan.
To be honest, whether diesel fuel additives work depends on the specific product type. As a mechanic who's worked on many vehicles, I can confirm that properly formulated diesel-specific cleaning additives do help remove carbon deposits and clean injectors. However, low-quality products can actually clog the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). The key is choosing the right formulation - for example, only use low-ash C5 or higher grade additives. Adding it before highway driving for about 30 minutes yields better results. Avoid metal-containing additives as they damage catalytic converters. While regular use can maintain fuel system cleanliness, severe carbon buildup still requires mechanical cleaning - don't expect additives to solve all problems.
I insist on using additives from major manufacturers for my diesel pickup maintenance, and the effects are quite tangible. Right after adding it and going on a long trip, the throttle does feel more responsive, and the engine noise is slightly reduced. Pay special attention to the CETANE value improvement marked on the bottle—good products can enhance the fuel's anti-knock performance, indirectly saving some fuel. But don't believe exaggerated claims like 'reduces fuel consumption by 15%'; saving 3% in reality is already good. Half a bottle before refueling is sufficient; adding too much is a waste of money and may cause incomplete combustion and black smoke. Regular cleaning is more important than a one-time heavy dose.
