The image of a diesel engine typically consists of a large, noisy truck billowing black smoke from its tailpipe. In the past, diesel vehicles have long been interpreted as harmful to the environment and given a bad rep. The good news is, carmakers have greatly improved diesel engines to meet environmental standards, including installing emissions-control equipment, particulate traps, and filters. Not only do modern diesel engines perform much like their gas counterparts, but they offer greater fuel economy.
Unlike gas engines, however, diesel fuel has more properties that must be protected with additives. If you’re in the market for a diesel truck, like the Chevy Silverado, or have recently purchased a diesel car, ask your Chevrolet dealership about diesel fuel additives. One of the most commonly used additives is a diesel fuel cleaner.
As your Chevrolet-certified service provider, we want to answer your automotive questions. So this article details what diesel fuel additives are, what a fuel cleaner is designed to do, and the different types of additives available.
What Do Fuel Additives Do?
Diesel is a heavier fuel than gas and has essential properties such as cetane rating, stability, and lubricity, among others, that need to be supplemented with additives. The additive is poured into your fuel tank (typically a full tank) and acts as a ‘supplement’ offering different benefits.
The additive dilutes the fuel and passes through the fuel lines, injectors, carburetors, and combustion chambers. Additives are made to help the vehicle run more smoothly, clean the parts, and improve overall performance. This process helps prolong the engine's life and keep the car well-maintained.
Diesel Fuel Cleaner Additive Explained
Of the additives available, diesel fuel cleaner is one of the most popular. It’s designed to:
· Dissolve carbon deposits
· Prevent further deposit formation
· Improve overall fuel system projection
· Prevent injector system corrosion
· Improve cetane rating
· Reduce harmful emissions
Types of Diesel Fuel Additives
While there are multi-functional and single-function additives available, no one product does it all. Additives offer many benefits for a low price. Below are a few examples of diesel fuel additives and their use:
· Cold flow improver - For car owners who live in a cold climate to prevent blockages in the fuel system.
· Stability improver - Preserves the quality of stored diesel (for example, if you’re putting a car into storage)
· Water separator - Separates and removes water from the fuel safely
· Performance additives - Cleans the injection system and protects parts
The above are just a few examples of diesel fuel additives. You can also find ignition improvers, lubricity, antioxidants, drag-reducing additives, de-icing additives, and more.
Final Thoughts
Additives are excellent for helping improve your vehicle’s efficiency. Therefore, they are worth your time and consideration if you want more from your automobile. At Weelborg Chevrolet, we are a committed team of sales reps, technicians, and automotive specialists. So if you’re looking for a new vehicle (or have any automotive-related questions), contact our experts today!