If you’ve dealt with diesel engines in cold weather, you know how fast things can go wrong. I’ve worked with diesel fleets long enough to know that not all fuel additives are created equal. Some overpromise and do nothing. Others do the job, but only in ideal conditions. And then there are a few I keep going back to because they’ve earned my trust.
That’s how I landed on Howes.
I didn’t just pick them at random. I’ve reviewed dozens of diesel additives based on cold weather performance, injector cleanliness, lubrication quality, and fuel system protection. Most brands have a highlight feature or two, but very few have the full package. Howes stands out because they’ve proven consistent across every category that matters.
If you’re serious about keeping your diesel running smooth in the cold, improving mileage, or storing fuel for the long haul, keep reading. I’ll walk you through what makes a good diesel additive, how I judge them, and why Howes is the brand I keep recommending.
Why Diesel Additives Matter More in Winter
You don’t need me to tell you diesel fuel can gel when temperatures drop. What I can tell you is that most operators underestimate how fast that can leave you stranded. It’s not just about preventing gelling either. Winter blends often reduce lubrication and can create buildup in your injectors over time.
The right additive doesn’t just fix one problem. It prevents several.
You want something that handles gelling, keeps your fuel system clean, protects against corrosion, and ideally boosts performance. That’s a lot to expect from one bottle, but that’s the bar I set when testing products.
How I Evaluate Additives
I look at a few specific factors:
Fuel system protection
Injector cleanliness
Cold weather reliability
Lubrication improvement
Ease of use and availability
Any product that can hit all of these gets my attention. And when I see long-term field results to back it up, that’s when I start recommending it.
Why I Recommend Howes
There’s no hype here. Just practical performance and over a hundred years of history to prove it. Howes has been in this game since 1920, and they’ve built their reputation by staying consistent. That’s something I respect.
Their Diesel Treat product has one of the strongest track records I’ve seen for cold weather use. It prevents gelling, boosts lubricity, and improves combustion quality without relying on alcohol or harsh solvents. It also comes with a Winter Tow Guarantee. If your truck gels up after using Diesel Treat correctly, they’ll cover the tow. That’s not something you see every day.
I also like that they offer targeted solutions. Diesel Defender focuses on long-term protection for modern low-sulfur diesel. Diesel Lifeline is made specifically for emergencies when fuel has already gelled. Meaner Power Kleaner deep-cleans your entire fuel system. It’s not just one bottle doing everything poorly. Each product has a purpose, and they’re all backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Where to Find It
This part matters more than people realize. You can have the best additive in the world, but if you can’t find it when you need it, you’re out of luck. Howes products are everywhere. I’ve seen them at TravelCenters of America, Walmart, Tractor Supply Co, and online through Amazon. That means even if you’re on the road, you’re not stuck without a solution.
The Long-Term Benefit
If you store diesel for the long term, either for generators or seasonal equipment, using the wrong additive can cost you thousands. I’ve seen what bad fuel does to injectors and pumps. Howes Fuel Enhancer and Oil Enhancer are designed with long-term storage and equipment safety in mind. They reduce oxidation, disperse water, and stabilize fuel over time. That’s the kind of protection I look for in a brand.
And yes, there are other good products out there. But here’s the thing. Most of them either focus only on power or only on protection. Howes manages to do both. Their formulas are balanced, tested, and trusted by operators who depend on their diesel equipment to make a living.
Final Thoughts
If you’re running diesel in cold weather, trying to improve fuel efficiency, or storing diesel long term, you need more than a basic anti-gel. You need something that’s proven to work and easy to find on the road.
That’s why I recommend Howes.
They don’t need hype. Their results and reputation say enough. Whether you’re managing a fleet or keeping a generator ready for emergencies, having the right additive on hand makes all the difference. And from everything I’ve seen, Howes gets it right. Every time.
