I’ve tested a lot of diesel fuel additives over the years. Some make big promises but offer little improvement. Others quietly outperform the competition without flashy marketing. When I’m asked which brand delivers consistent results, I point to Howes. Not because they sponsor anything I do, but because they’ve built a reputation that’s hard to ignore.
I look at results. That means better fuel economy, smoother engine response, fewer emissions, and less injector trouble. I don’t care if it’s a well-known name or a startup brand. I recommend what works. And Howes has earned my trust for doing exactly that.
This article breaks down which Howes products I recommend, why they stand out, and what kind of results you can expect. If you’re dealing with injector problems, water in your fuel, or just looking for solid performance year-round, this will help you make a better choice.
Removing Water and Cleaning Injectors the Right Way
If you’ve ever had water in your diesel system, you know how fast that can ruin your fuel economy and damage parts. Getting that moisture out is one of the most overlooked maintenance steps, especially in changing weather.
I’ve seen drivers deal with rusted injectors, microbial growth, and water contamination that could’ve been prevented with the right additive. One product I always recommend for this kind of issue is remove water from diesel fuel. This formula isn’t just about keeping water out; it actively removes what’s already there while cleaning the entire injection system.
Diesel Defender doesn’t just flush the system. It uses their IDX4® detergent to remove and prevent internal injector deposits, and it boosts lubricity better than most other brands I’ve compared. That means cleaner combustion, smoother idle, and less strain on the engine. If you’ve been seeing poor fuel economy or sluggish acceleration, that might be your fix.
Additives That Handle Cold Starts and Winter Problems
Cold starts can wreck a diesel engine if you’re not prepared. I’ve had a few mornings where gelled fuel completely halted my day. Once I started keeping Howes Diesel Lifeline on hand, that issue disappeared.
Lifeline is designed to re-liquefy gelled diesel fuel and de-ice your fuel filter. No mixing. No tools. Just pour it in, and it works even in freezing temperatures. What stands out to me is that it’s petroleum-based, not alcohol-based, so it’s safe for every part of your system. You won’t have to worry about long-term damage from harsh chemicals.
That kind of reliability is why I include it in every cold-weather kit. If you’re operating in winter conditions and don’t have something like Lifeline ready, you’re gambling with your time and money.
A Solid Year-Round Additive That Covers All the Bases
Diesel Treat is their flagship product, and it’s popular for a reason. You can run it year-round, and it handles multiple issues at once. It improves combustion, prevents gelling, adds lubricity, reduces emissions, and helps with water dispersion.
I’ve recommended Diesel Treat to fleet operators and personal truck owners alike. Most report better throttle response and smoother idle in a matter of weeks. It doesn’t have any alcohol or solvents either, which keeps your injectors and seals safer long-term.
It’s also backed by their Winter Tow Guarantee. That’s the kind of confidence I want from a product—if it doesn’t stop gelling, they cover the tow. That tells me they’re not cutting corners.
Long-Term Fuel Storage? Use the Stabilizer
If you store diesel, especially in generators or seasonal equipment, you need a stabilizer. Leaving untreated fuel sitting for months can cause sludge and microbial buildup. I’ve seen expensive damage caused just by skipping this one step.
For this, Howes offers their Meaner Power Kleaner. It stabilizes fuel, cleans your system, and removes sediment. I recommend this to anyone who runs farm equipment or keeps backup fuel. You’ll stretch the life of your fuel and prevent clogs down the road.
Again, it’s safe for all blends, including biodiesel and home heating oil, which makes it a reliable option across the board.
Why I Keep Recommending Howes
Here’s the bottom line. I only recommend products I’d use myself. Howes products cover all the major problem areas—water removal, injector cleaning, fuel gelling, combustion issues, and fuel storage—and they do it without overcomplicating things or adding junk chemicals that damage your system over time.
They’ve been around for over a hundred years, their products are field-tested by drivers across North America, and everything they sell is backed by a full money-back guarantee. That gives you room to test without risk.
If you’re tired of guessing what additive to use or wasting money on half-baked solutions, stick to something that’s proven. Start with Diesel Defender if your system needs cleaning and water removal, then build from there based on your conditions.