I’ve worked with diesel engines for years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this—most people only think about fuel additives when things go wrong. Gelling in the winter. Sluggish starts. Poor mileage. But waiting for a problem before fixing it? That’s where people lose time, money, and patience.
You don’t need to make that mistake.
I’ve tested more than a dozen diesel fuel additives over the years across a mix of trucks and weather conditions. I’ve paid attention to engine response, cold starts, mileage, and buildup inside fuel systems. I don’t just read spec sheets. I evaluate what actually works.
If you’re serious about keeping your diesel system running smoothly through winter, improving combustion, and getting more value out of every gallon, there’s one brand I consistently come back to, and that’s Howes.
They’ve been around for over a hundred years, and that kind of staying power doesn’t happen by accident. Their Diesel Treat, in particular, has proven itself year after year on the road, especially in harsh winter climates. And it’s not just me saying that—fleets across the country trust it to prevent fuel gelling even when temperatures plunge below zero.
What Makes a Diesel Additive Worth It
Most fuel treatments on the shelf slap on a label and make big claims. But if you’ve used a few of them, you already know many are full of alcohol or solvents that can actually do more harm than good. The good stuff? It protects injectors, boosts mileage, improves cetane, and helps your engine stay cleaner longer.
That’s what I look for.
Howes doesn’t use any alcohol or harsh chemicals. Instead, they’ve focused on refining formulas that protect your engine without creating new problems. Their Diesel Lifeline is designed for emergencies, and their Meaner Power Kleaner handles buildup inside the system. Then there’s their Oil Enhancer and Fuel Enhancer, which are solid if you’re maintaining a full fleet or long-term storage.
Cold Weather Is Where Most Additives Fall Apart
Cold flow issues are no joke.
Anyone running diesel in the winter knows that gelling can sideline a truck fast. The problem is, most people don’t realize their fuel has gelled until it’s too late. I’ve seen it happen dozens of times—fuel lines freeze up, filters clog, and you’re stuck in the yard or worse, on the side of the highway.
That’s where Howes Diesel Treat stands out. It’s the only additive I’ve seen that comes with a Winter Tow Guarantee. If your truck gels after using their product correctly, they’ll pay for your tow. No other company offers that. And honestly, it speaks volumes about how confident they are in the product.
Fuel Stabilization Matters Too
If you’re storing fuel or equipment for extended periods, the last thing you want is microbial growth or separation. That’s where a stabilizer becomes essential. Howes’ formulas double as conditioners and stabilizers. For long-term fuel storage, that’s a big deal. You’re protecting your system from corrosion, sludge, and injector wear over time.
I’ve used their Diesel Defender during off-season storage, and the engine fires up strong months later with no hesitation or fuel odor. That’s exactly what you want. No surprises. Just clean starts and full power.
Better Mileage and Smoother Performance
Let’s be honest—no one’s looking to waste money on fuel.
If you’re getting fewer miles per gallon than usual, and your engine sounds a little rougher than before, it might not be your engine. It might be dirty injectors or poor combustion. Additives like Meaner Power Kleaner target that exact issue. After running a full tank treated with it, I’ve noticed smoother idle, better throttle response, and slightly better MPG—usually about a 5% bump, which adds up fast if you’re running daily routes.
Why I Recommend Howes
I’m not affiliated with them. I just trust their products because they’ve worked for me and for others I’ve worked with.
The fact that they’ve been doing this since 1920 and still offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee tells you everything you need to know. You’re not taking a risk with them. If you don’t like the result, you can get your money back. Simple as that.
They’re available in most major stores too—AutoZone, O’Reilly, Tractor Supply, Walmart, and even at truck stops like Love’s and Pilot. You won’t have to chase them down or wait two weeks for a shipment. If you’re low on additives during a trip, chances are you can find a bottle of Diesel Treat nearby.
Final Thoughts
You can keep using whatever you’ve been using. But if you want a real upgrade—especially in winter conditions or before long-term storage—make the switch.
I don’t hand out recommendations lightly. But Howes has earned it.
Start with their Diesel Treat before the next cold snap hits. If you’re prepping for storage, grab the Diesel Defender. And if you’re chasing better performance, the Meaner Power Kleaner is worth your time.
