Best Diesel System Cleaner for Injectors, Intake, and SCR
A strong diesel system cleaner should match the part of the system you want to treat, whether that is the fuel injectors, the intake, the tank, or the SCR emissions system. Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme is a broad fuel-system choice, while other options in this roundup target injector deposits, intake grime, fuel contamination, or DEF crystallization more specifically. The products range from 11.8-fluid-ounce SCR treatment to 64-ounce fuel and tank products, so bottle size alone does not tell you how much fuel a treatment covers.
Check the label’s system target and dosing instructions before buying: an intake cleaner or DEF/SCR treatment is not a substitute for a fuel additive. This guide ranks all 10 by how closely their listed features fit the search for a diesel system cleaner.
Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme is the best overall choice for a broad fuel-system clean because its listed features include removing deposits, water, and sludge throughout the system while also improving cetane. Its 16-ounce bottle is a clearly stated format, and the product claims easier starts, stronger acceleration, and reduced emissions. Choose a more targeted product instead if you specifically need intake cleaning, DEF/SCR treatment, or fuel-tank contamination control; those are different jobs from a general diesel fuel-system cleaner.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallHot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme
Its listed broad fuel-system action addresses deposits, water, and sludge, and it also improves cetane; the stated bottle size is 16 ounces.
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One-Tank CleanupThis is a diesel fuel-system cleaner for all engine types, treats up to 35 gallons, and lists a treatment cycle of every 3,000 miles.
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Common-Rail FocusIt cleans the entire diesel injection system, removes hard injector deposits, and is listed as especially effective in high-pressure common-rail engines.
View on Amazon- 400-Gallon Treating Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment
- Large Fuel Additive Power Service Diesel Kleen
Compare diesel cleaners by the job they target
| # | Product | Volume | Weight | Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Hot Shot's Secret Diesel ExtremeBest Overall | 473 ml | 0.45 kg | 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Chevron Techron D ConcentrateOne-Tank Cleanup | 20 fluid oz | — | 20 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. BG 245 Premium Diesel CleanerCommon-Rail Focus | — | 1.5 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Liqui Moly Pro-Line Diesel System CleanerConcentrated diesel fuel-system care | 500 ml | — | 16.9 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment400-Gallon Treating | — | 2.95 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Power Service Diesel KleenLarge Fuel Additive | — | 4 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Lucas Oil Diesel Deep CleanSimple 16-ounce bottle purchase | — | 249 g | 1 Count (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Liqui Moly Pro-Line Intake CleanerIntake and throttle-valve cleaning | 13.52 fluid oz | 27.49 g | 13.52 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Rislone DEF Crystal CleanSCR crystallization prevention | 11.8 fluid oz | — | 11.8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Power Service Clear-DieselFuel tank cleanup and storage stability | 64 fluid oz | 4.1 lb | 64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Diesel System Cleaner

#1 · Best Overall
1. Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme
- Volume: 473 ml
- Weight: 0.45 kg
- Size: 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Whole-system deposit and water cleanup.
Why it ranks #1: Its listed broad fuel-system action addresses deposits, water, and sludge, and it also improves cetane; the stated bottle size is 16 ounces.
Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme works across the fuel system to remove deposits, water, and sludge, while improving cetane. That combination makes it a fit for diesel owners seeking one liquid treatment aimed at fuel quality, combustion, easier starts, stronger acceleration, and reduced emissions.
Its whole-system cleaning action targets harmful deposits as well as water and sludge, addressing several fuel-system concerns in one treatment. The formula also contains cumene and is described as improving fuel quality and combustion efficiency, connecting its cetane benefit with easier starting and stronger acceleration. The 16-ounce bottle is a manageable single-container format, though the supplied information does not specify the amount of fuel it treats, so it is less straightforward to plan around a stated coverage figure.
- Targets deposits, water, and sludge throughout the fuel system
- Improves cetane for smoother combustion
- Associated with easier starts and stronger acceleration
- 16-ounce liquid bottle
- The supplied details give no fuel-treatment coverage figure.
Skip it if you need a stated gallons-treated figure for each dose; Archoil AR6500 specifies treatment for up to 400 gallons per bottle.
Diesel owners looking for broad fuel-system cleanup plus cetane improvement may appreciate Diesel Extreme’s stated benefits. Its fit is less clear when treatment coverage is central to planning, because the supplied product details do not give a gallons-treated figure.
Full 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 |
| 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 |
Listed on Amazon as: Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Extreme, 16 oz, Fuel System Cleaner
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#2 · One-Tank Cleanup
2. Chevron Techron D Concentrate
- Volume: 20 fluid oz
- Size: 20 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Single-tank injector cleanup.
Why it ranks #2: This is a diesel fuel-system cleaner for all engine types, treats up to 35 gallons, and lists a treatment cycle of every 3,000 miles.
Chevron Techron D is described as a one-tank cleanup treatment for all types and sizes of diesel engines, with coverage up to 35 gallons. Its deposit-cleaning focus extends across the fuel system and includes internal injector deposits, tying a defined treatment cycle to cold-start and drivability benefits.
The concentrated 20-ounce formula cleans deposits throughout the fuel system, including internal deposits in indirect-injection and high-speed direct-injection nozzles. Chevron lists treatment every 3,000 miles and coverage up to 35 gallons, giving owners a practical cadence and tank-size reference. The product also aims to restore cetane boost, with associated benefits for combustion, cold starting, responsiveness, and reduced emissions. Its stated prevention of injector sticking adds a maintenance angle alongside one-tank cleanup.
- Cleans deposits throughout the fuel system
- Targets internal injector deposits in indirect and direct injection nozzles
- Treats up to 35 gallons
- Lists a treatment cycle every 3,000 miles
- Its stated coverage is limited to up to 35 gallons per treatment.
Skip it if you need a 64-ounce supply for larger-volume maintenance; Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost is listed in that bottle size.
Techron D fits diesel owners seeking an interval-based, one-tank cleanup with injector, cold-start, and responsiveness benefits. Its stated coverage of up to 35 gallons is the practical boundary for matching a dose to the fuel volume.
Full product details
| Brand | Chevron |
|---|---|
| Included Components | complete diesel fuel additive |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 20 fluid ounces |
| Manufacturer | Chevron |
| Material Feature | Unscented |
| Material Features | Unscented |
| Model Number | 266373272 |
| Size | 20 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Concentrated |
| Warranty Description | Limited Warranty |
Listed on Amazon as: Chevron Techron D Concentrate Diesel Fuel System Cleaner, 20 oz., Pack of 1
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#3 · Common-Rail Focus
3. BG 245 Premium Diesel Cleaner
- Weight: 1.5 lb
Best for: Common-rail injector deposit removal.
Why it ranks #3: It cleans the entire diesel injection system, removes hard injector deposits, and is listed as especially effective in high-pressure common-rail engines.
BG 245 is especially effective in high-pressure common-rail engines, giving owners of those systems a directly stated reason to consider it. It removes hard deposits from injectors and cleans the diesel injection system, with listed benefits that include easier cold starts, smoother idle, and lower emissions.
The cleaner targets the entire diesel injection system, including fuel injectors and combustion chambers, so its stated action reaches beyond a single component. BG specifically calls out high-pressure common-rail engines, a useful match for owners seeking deposit cleanup in that system type. The product also links cleaning with improved cold starting, lower emissions, and smoother idle, addressing practical operating symptoms rather than relying on a treatment-volume or mileage schedule that is not supplied here.
- Removes hard deposits inside injectors
- Cleans the entire diesel injection system
- Especially effective in high-pressure common-rail engines
- Associated with improved cold starts and smoother idle
- The supplied product details do not state a treatment volume or dosing interval.
Skip it if you need a published treatment amount per gallons of fuel; Archoil AR6500 states that its 40-ounce bottle treats up to 400 gallons.
BG 245 fits diesel owners prioritizing injector and combustion-chamber deposit removal, particularly in high-pressure common-rail engines. Consider whether its stated benefits match your goal; the supplied details do not provide a dosing amount or maintenance interval.
Full product details
| Brand | BG |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Item model number | 24532 |
| Manufacturer | BG |
| Part Number | 24532 |
| Dimensions | 2 x 4.5 x 9 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: BG 245 Premium Diesel Fuel System Cleaner
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#4
4. Liqui Moly Pro-Line Diesel System Cleaner
- Volume: 500 ml
- Size: 16.9 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Concentrated diesel fuel-system care.
Why it ranks #4: This concentrated 500 ml diesel additive removes deposits in the fuel system and combustion chamber, and its listed effects include cetane improvement.
LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Diesel System Cleaner combines fuel-system and combustion-chamber deposit removal with cetane improvement. That makes it a fit for owners seeking a liquid diesel additive associated with improved ignitability, quieter engine operation, and protection against corrosion and wear.
The 500 ml concentrated liquid removes deposits in both the diesel fuel system and combustion chamber, covering two named areas in one treatment. Its cetane improvement is linked to better fuel ignitability, while the listing also associates it with quieter running and protection against corrosion and wear. Those benefits make it relevant for routine system care, although the supplied details do not state a fuel-volume coverage figure or a recommended dosing interval for planning use.
- Removes deposits from the fuel system and combustion chamber
- Improves cetane and fuel ignitability
- Associated with quieter engine operation
- Offers stated protection against corrosion and wear
- The supplied details do not give a gallons-treated figure.
Skip it if you need a clearly stated bottle coverage figure; Archoil AR6500 specifies treatment for up to 400 gallons.
Diesel owners seeking a concentrated liquid that addresses fuel-system and combustion-chamber deposits may find this a useful match. Its listed benefits include cetane improvement and wear protection, but buyers who plan by gallons will need a stated coverage figure.
Full product details
| Brand | Liqui Moly |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Bottle |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 500 ml |
| Manufacturer | Liqui Moly |
| Material Features | Clean |
| Free From | Chlorine Free |
| Model Number | 2032 |
| Size | 16.9 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Concentrated |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: Liqui Moly Pro-Line Diesel System Cleaner | 500 ml | Diesel additive | SKU: 2032
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#5 · 400-Gallon Treating
5. Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment
- Weight: 2.95 lb
Best for: High-volume all-diesel dosing.
Why it ranks #5: Its 40-ounce bottle treats up to 400 gallons, and the listed functions include injector cleaning, lubricity improvement, and DPF and turbo deposit control.
Archoil AR6500 treats up to 400 gallons from a 40-ounce bottle, giving owners of vehicles or equipment a clearly stated coverage figure. Its long neck and measuring chamber support dosing at each fill-up, while the listed applications span diesel engines from pickups to heavy equipment.
The measuring chamber and long neck make the fill-up routine more controlled than pouring from an unmarked container, and the bottle’s stated coverage lets owners plan repeat treatment across as much as 400 gallons. Archoil lists use in light- and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment, including modern HPCR systems, so the application range covers varied diesel setups. Its lubricity improvement is reported as 43% under ASTM D6079, linking treatment to protection of wear-sensitive fuel-system components.
- 40-ounce bottle treats up to 400 gallons
- Long neck and measuring chamber support dosing at fill-ups
- Listed for all diesel engines, including modern HPCR systems
- ASTM D6079-tested lubricity improvement of 43%
- Treatment requires measuring and adding a dose at each fill-up.
Skip it if you prefer a stated every-3,000-mile one-tank cleanup; Chevron Techron D lists that treatment cycle and covers up to 35 gallons.
AR6500 suits owners who want a measured treatment routine across cars, pickups, RVs, or diesel equipment, including HPCR systems. Its fill-up dosing approach is a better fit for regular additive use than for a single interval-based cleanup.
Full product details
| Brand | Archoil |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.95 pounds |
| Item model number | AR6500-40 |
| Manufacturer | Archoil |
| Part Number | AR6500-40 |
| Package Dimensions | 14.09 x 7.8 x 3.35 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment (40 oz) Treats 400 Gallons, Diesel Fuel Additive – Lubricity Improver, Injector Cleaner, DPF & Turbo Deposit Control, Cetane Booster
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#6 · Large Fuel Additive
6. Power Service Diesel Kleen
- Weight: 4 lb
Best for: Injector cleaning for mixed diesel fuels.
Why it ranks #6: The 64-ounce product targets dirty and sticking injectors in HPCR and older systems, with listed lubricity support for pumps and injectors.
Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost targets dirty injectors and injector sticking while listing compatibility with ULSD, biodiesel, and biodiesel blends. Its 64-ounce container suits owners who want a larger bottle for fuel-system cleaning, cetane support, and lubricity protection.
The treatment removes internal and external injector deposits and is described for both HPCR and older fuel systems, giving it broad stated system coverage. Its Slickdiesel Lubricator is intended to protect pumps and injectors against increased wear from poor-quality ULSD, while cetane boost and restored power and fuel economy address combustion and drivability. Compatibility with ULSD and biodiesel blends makes the cleaner relevant across several listed diesel fuel types, rather than only one blend.
- Cleans internal and external injector deposits
- Listed for HPCR and older systems
- Compatible with ULSD, biodiesel, and biodiesel blends
- Slickdiesel Lubricator protects pumps and injectors from wear
- The supplied description does not state how many gallons the 64-ounce bottle treats.
Skip it if you need a stated every-3,000-mile cycle and gallons-per-dose figure; Chevron Techron D provides both details.
Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost suits owners seeking injector cleanup and lubricity support across ULSD or biodiesel blends, including HPCR systems. Its 64-ounce bottle is substantial, but the supplied facts do not give a fuel-coverage figure for dosing.
Full 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 |
Listed on Amazon as: Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost 64 oz, Pack of 1 3064-06 Grey
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#7
7. Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean
- Weight: 249 g
- Size: 1 Count (Pack of 1)
Best for: Simple 16-ounce bottle purchase.
Why it ranks #7: It is identified as a 16-ounce diesel deep-clean product, but the supplied product details do not specify its target deposits, treatment rate, or system coverage.
Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean comes as a single 16-ounce bottle, offering a straightforward format for buyers specifically seeking that product and quantity. The supplied listing confirms the bottle and brand, but provides little detail about its cleaning targets, treatment rate, or fuel-system benefits.
The product information identifies Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean as a 16-ounce bottle, with one bottle included. That gives buyers a clear container size and quantity when selecting a small, single-container purchase. However, the supplied product facts do not describe a treatment dose, gallons covered, or specific cleaning action, so the available information cannot connect the bottle to a particular maintenance schedule or injector, tank, or emissions-system task. Buyers needing those details should weigh this limited description before choosing.
- Identified as Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean
- Single 16-ounce bottle included
- Bottle quantity is specified
- Made in the United States
- The listed facts do not specify treatment coverage or a cleaning target.
Skip it if you need stated injector-cleaning and cetane benefits; Chevron Techron D lists those actions and gives coverage up to 35 gallons.
This is a cautious fit for buyers who specifically want Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean in a single 16-ounce bottle. The supplied details leave its cleaning targets and dose unclear, so it is not the clearest pick when those guide maintenance.
Full product details
| Brand | Lucas Oil |
|---|---|
| Container Type | Bottle |
| Included Components | 1x 16 ounce bottle |
| Item Weight | 249 g |
| Manufacturer | Lucas Oil |
| Model Number | 10872 |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: Lucas Oil 16 Oz. Diesel Deep Clean – 1 Each
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#8
8. Liqui Moly Pro-Line Intake Cleaner
- Volume: 13.52 fluid oz
- Weight: 27.49 g
- Size: 13.52 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Intake and throttle-valve cleaning.
Why it ranks #8: This 400 ml workshop product cleans the intake system and loosens soot, oil, and greasy deposits, rather than targeting fuel-system deposits.
LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Diesel Intake System Cleaner focuses on the intake system, including the throttle-valve area, rather than fuel-tank dosing. Its active solvent and additive combination loosens greasy dirt such as oil and soot, making it a targeted option for intake-side deposits.
The 400 ml workshop product is described for cleaning the entire intake system, with its active solvent combination loosening and removing oil, soot, and other greasy deposits in the intake and throttle-valve area. That focus can suit maintenance aimed at moving-part function and engine reliability, which the listing says it supports. Its use case is distinct from a fuel additive poured into the tank, so buyers should select it for intake-side cleaning rather than assume it treats fuel or injectors.
- Targets the entire intake system
- Addresses the throttle-valve area
- Loosens oil, soot, and greasy deposits
- Listing says it supports moving-part function and engine reliability
- This is an intake-system cleaner, not a stated fuel-tank additive.
Skip it if you want a pour-in fuel-system treatment for injectors and combustion deposits; LIQUI MOLY Pro-Line Diesel System Cleaner is listed as a diesel additive.
This Pro-Line cleaner suits buyers targeting oil, soot, and greasy buildup in the intake and throttle-valve area. Its intake-side purpose is the key fit boundary: choose a fuel additive instead when the target is the tank-fed fuel system.
Full product details
| Brand | Liqui Moly |
|---|---|
| Included Components | CLEANING AND CARE |
| Item Volume | 13.52 fluid ounces |
| Item Weight | 27.49 g |
| Manufacturer | Liqui Moly |
| Model Number | 20208 |
| Size | 13.52 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: LIQUI Moly Pro-Line Diesel Intake System Cleaner | 400 ml | Workshop Product | SKU: 20208
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#9
9. Rislone DEF Crystal Clean
- Volume: 11.8 fluid oz
- Size: 11.8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: SCR crystallization prevention.
Why it ranks #9: Its 11.8-ounce formula is specifically for DEF/SCR systems and crystallization deposits, not general cleaning of the diesel fuel system.
Rislone 4784 targets DEF and SCR crystallization, making it particularly relevant to diesel vehicles that spend time at low speeds, under light loads, on short trips, or in frequent-stop traffic. Its stated recurring interval also gives owners a defined maintenance cadence for addressing white deposits.
The DEF- and AdBlue-compatible cleaning agents and surfactant detergents are specified for SCR systems, connecting the formula to emissions-system maintenance rather than general fuel-injector cleaning. Rislone says regular use every 5,000 miles helps keep the system clean and prevent crystallization from returning. It also states that the treatment restores SCR performance and optimal DEF injector spray pattern, which speaks directly to buyers concerned about deposit-related operation in vehicles with that system.
- Targets DEF crystallization in SCR systems
- Aimed at frequent-stop, low-speed, and light-load driving
- Specified for use every 5,000 miles
- States that it restores optimal DEF injector spray pattern
- Its stated target is the DEF/SCR emissions system, not general fuel-injector cleaning.
Skip it if you want a cleaner aimed at fuel injectors and combustion rather than DEF crystallization; Chevron Techron D targets deposits throughout the fuel system.
Choose Rislone 4784 if your diesel has an SCR system and its duty cycle includes short trips, low loads, or frequent stops. It is a focused emissions-system treatment, not the broad fuel-system cleaner to choose for injector deposits.
Full product details
| Brand | Rislone |
|---|---|
| Included Components | (1) DEF and SCR Treatment |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 11.8 fluid ounces |
| Manufacturer | Bar's Products |
| Material Feature | Scented |
| Material Features | Scented |
| Model Number | 4784 |
| Size | 11.8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Automotive |
| Warranty Description | Please see manufacturer |
| Additional Information | Important information Ingredients Proprietary |
Listed on Amazon as: Rislone 4784 Crystal Clean Diesel DEF & SCR Emission System Cleaner, 1-Pack
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#10
10. Power Service Clear-Diesel
- Volume: 64 fluid oz
- Weight: 4.1 lb
- Size: 64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Fuel tank cleanup and storage stability.
Why it ranks #10: This 64-ounce product targets fuel-tank contaminants, water, slime, and storage stability; it is not described as an injector or injection-system cleaner.
Power Service Clear-Diesel targets fuel contaminants, water, and slime while adding Petrofresh for long-term storage stability. That combination gives diesel owners a tank-focused option when fuel cleanliness and keeping stored fuel fresh matter more than a treatment centered on injector deposits.
The cleaner disperses fuel contaminants and removes water and slime, addressing issues that can affect stored or contaminated diesel. Petrofresh is described as providing long-term storage stability and keeping fuel fresh, while the formula also protects against tank corrosion and helps prevent premature fuel-filter plugging. Together, those functions connect cleanup with storage and maintenance concerns. Its 64-ounce liquid bottle provides a defined container size, though the supplied information does not state how much fuel one bottle treats.
- Disperses diesel fuel contaminants
- Removes water and slime
- Petrofresh supports long-term storage stability
- Helps protect against tank corrosion and premature filter plugging
- The supplied details do not specify the fuel volume treated by one bottle.
Skip it if you want a product explicitly focused on injector deposits and cetane boost; Power Service Diesel Kleen+Cetane Boost targets both.
Clear-Diesel fits owners managing contaminated fuel or stored diesel who want water and slime removal alongside fuel stability and tank protection. Its focus is fuel and tank care, not the injector-cleaning and cetane benefits of a dedicated additive.
Full product details
| Brand | Power Service |
|---|---|
| Included Components | 1 bottle |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 64 fluid ounces |
| Item Weight | 4.1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Power Service |
| Material Feature | Stabilizes Stored Fuel |
| Material Features | Stabilizes Stored Fuel |
| Model Number | 9264-06 |
| Size | 64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Warranty Description | parts |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Power Service Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner – 64 Ounce
View on AmazonWhy the cleaner’s system target matters
A cleaner’s intended system matters more than the word “diesel” on its label. Fuel-tank and injection cleaners treat different problems: Power Service Clear-Diesel is listed for water, slime, contaminants, and tank corrosion, while Chevron Techron D Concentrate targets deposits through the fuel system and inside injectors. Rislone DEF Crystal Clean is a separate category again: its stated target is crystallization in the DEF/SCR system.
Liqui Moly Pro-Line Intake Cleaner is intended for intake deposits such as soot and oil. Putting a product into the wrong system can mean it never reaches the area you intend to clean.
Before purchase or use, check both the application directions and the system named on the product. A fuel additive should not be assumed to clean the intake or SCR, and an intake or DEF/SCR treatment should not be treated as a fuel-tank additive.
How to Choose a Diesel System Cleaner
System being cleaned
Start by identifying which diesel system needs attention, then choose a product explicitly intended for it. Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme and BG 245 Premium Diesel Cleaner describe broad fuel or injection-system cleaning; BG specifically notes high-pressure common-rail engines. Liqui Moly Pro-Line Intake Cleaner is for the intake, Rislone DEF Crystal Clean is for DEF/SCR, and Power Service Clear-Diesel is for fuel and tank contamination.
Those products are not interchangeable based on their shared diesel label. If the concern is injector deposits, favour a fuel-system formula such as Chevron Techron D Concentrate or Liqui Moly Pro-Line Diesel System Cleaner.
For suspected water or storage contamination in a tank, the tank cleaner is the more closely matched option.
Bottle size and treatment coverage
Compare stated treatment coverage, not just bottle volume. Chevron Techron D Concentrate lists a 20-ounce volume and says it treats up to 35 gallons; Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment lists 40 ounces and coverage of up to 400 gallons. Other listed formats include 16 ounces for Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme, 500 ml for Liqui Moly Pro-Line Diesel System Cleaner, and 64 ounces for Power Service Diesel Kleen and Power Service Clear-Diesel.
These quantities describe different products and purposes, so they do not establish equal dose strength or number of treatments. If you treat a vehicle occasionally, a smaller clearly specified bottle may suit your usage; if you need broader ongoing coverage, favour a product that states its gallons treated and follow its label directions.
Cleaning versus ongoing treatment
Decide whether you need a targeted cleanup or a product described for repeated use. Chevron Techron D Concentrate is presented as a one-tank cleanup and also lists a treatment cycle every 3,000 miles. Rislone DEF Crystal Clean recommends regular use every 5,000 miles for its specific SCR application.
Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment is described for use at every fill-up and claims up to 400 gallons per 40-ounce bottle. By contrast, several listings provide cleaning claims but no comparable schedule or gallons-treated figure.
A buyer addressing a specific injector-deposit concern may prefer a product with a stated cleanup purpose; someone seeking routine treatment should select one with instructions that match the vehicle and intended interval. Always follow the product label rather than inferring a dose from container size.
Which Diesel Cleaner Should You Choose?
For broad fuel-system cleaning, choose Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme: it is listed to address deposits, water, and sludge while improving cetane. For a one-tank injector and fuel-system cleanup with explicit coverage, Chevron Techron D Concentrate treats up to 35 gallons. Choose BG 245 Premium Diesel Cleaner if high-pressure common-rail cleaning is your priority, or Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment if you want a product listing up to 400 gallons of treatment.
For the wrong-system problem, use Liqui Moly Pro-Line Intake Cleaner for intake deposits, Rislone DEF Crystal Clean for DEF/SCR crystallization, and Power Service Clear-Diesel for tank water and contaminants. Power Service Diesel Kleen is another fuel additive option for dirty or sticking injectors.
Lucas Oil Diesel Deep Clean has less use detail in the supplied listing, so verify its label before selecting it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a diesel fuel-system cleaner remove a clogged DPF or repair an injector?
Not reliably. A fuel-system cleaner may address deposits, but it should not be treated as a repair for a clogged DPF or a damaged injector. Diesel Extreme lists broad fuel-system cleaning, while Archoil AR6500 lists DPF and turbo deposit control.
For a specific fault, identify the system and follow the vehicle or product guidance.
How often should I use a diesel fuel-system cleaner, and can I use it with other additives?
Use the interval and mixing guidance on the specific product label; the supplied listings do not establish one schedule or universal compatibility rule. Products differ in purpose and treatment coverage, including Techron D Concentrate for up to 35 gallons and Archoil AR6500 for up to 400 gallons. Avoid assuming that combining additives is suitable.
Can I put an intake cleaner or DEF/SCR cleaner in the diesel fuel tank?
No. Intake cleaners and DEF/SCR cleaners target different systems from the diesel fuel tank. Liqui Moly Pro-Line Diesel Intake Cleaner is for intake deposits, and Rislone Crystal Clean is for DEF/SCR crystallization.
For fuel-tank water and contaminants, the listed option is Power Service Clear-Diesel; follow each product’s directions.
Which option is listed for a one-tank injector and fuel-system cleanup?
Chevron Techron D Concentrate is the clearest fit in these listings: it is described as a diesel fuel-system cleaner that treats up to 35 gallons. That makes its stated coverage explicit for a one-tank cleanup. Check the product directions and your tank capacity before use rather than assuming a dose.
Which product should I consider for water or sludge in the fuel system?
For tank water and contaminants, consider Power Service Clear-Diesel. For a broader fuel-system clean that also lists water and sludge, Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme is the editorial pick. These are distinct needs: choose based on whether the concern is tank contamination control or a general fuel-system cleanup, and follow the label.
Final Words
For a broad fuel-system clean, choose Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme, which is listed to address deposits, water, and sludge while improving cetane. If your need is narrower, match the product to the job: Techron D for stated one-tank coverage, BG 245 for common-rail cleaning, or Clear-Diesel for tank water and contaminants. Use intake and DEF/SCR products only for their intended systems, and verify directions before treatment.
