Fuel Injector Cleaners and Fuel System Treatments: What Works and When to Use Them

Over time, carbon and varnish deposits build up on fuel injectors, intake valves and combustion chambers. The result can be rough idle, hesitation, hard starts and lower fuel economy. A good fuel system cleaner can help keep those deposits under control.

How fuel system cleaners work

Most cleaners use detergents that break down deposits as fuel passes through the system. Products vary in strength:

• Maintenance cleaners — milder treatments meant for regular use to keep deposits from forming.
• Complete fuel system cleaners — stronger treatments for engines that already show symptoms.

Look for products that list a strong detergent such as polyetheramine (PEA) on the label if you want a deeper clean.

Gas engines vs diesel engines

• Gasoline engines benefit from injector and intake valve cleaning, especially vehicles that do a lot of short trips.
• Diesel engines benefit from cleaners and cetane boosters that keep injectors clean and help combustion. In winter, many diesel products combine cleaning with anti-gel protection.

How often to use them

Follow the label. Many maintenance cleaners are designed for every tank or every few thousand miles. Stronger cleaners are often used every oil change or when symptoms appear. Using more than the label says does not clean faster.

When a cleaner is not enough

A cleaner will not fix a failed injector, a bad fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter. If symptoms continue after treatment, the vehicle needs a proper diagnosis.

Fuel additives we carry

RPS Distributors stocks fuel system cleaners and treatments from Lucas, STP, Power Service and more. Browse our Fuel Additives collection.

Request a wholesale quote or call 1-855-498-7509.