7 Best Fuel Injector Cleaners (to Restore Lost Performance)
Fuel injectors spray gasoline into engine cylinders, enabling combustion. Over time, contaminants in gas can clog injectors, causing irregular spray patterns which reduces performance and mileage. Eventually, clogged injectors may prevent starting or stall the engine.
Before replacing expensive injectors, try a quality fuel system cleaner. This affordable, easy fix may restore injector function. Here are 7 of the best fuel injector cleaners with a proven track record.
See Also: Brake Cleaner vs Throttle Body Cleaner vs Carb Cleaner
Top 7 Fuel System Cleaners
#1 – Lucas Fuel Treatment
One of the best values around, Lucas LUC10013 is both a fuel injector cleaner and conditioner. Your entire fuel injection system will be cleaned and lubricated which results in more power and higher gas mileage and a better chance of passing emissions testing.
The 1 gallon jug will treat as much as 400 gallons of fuel, whether it’s diesel or gasoline, leaded or unleaded. Lucas Fuel Treatment is one of the best all-in-one fuel system cleaners around.
#2 – Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment
Arguably the best fuel injector cleaner out there, Sea Foam has a huge following among auto enthusiasts. Not only does it clean injectors, it cleans and lubricates your entire fuel system when added to your fuel tank.
It can even be used as a fuel stabilizer or added to crankcase oil to remove deposits and residue for better oil flow.
The 16 ounce bottle will treat anywhere from 8 to 16 gallons of fuel. Sea Foam works REALLY well but is a bit more expensive compared to Lucas when it comes to regular maintenance.
#3 – BG 44K Fuel System Cleaner
If you don’t mind paying a little extra for a fuel injector cleaner, this one will do a good job of eliminating deposits, residue, and even some rust. It will also thoroughly clean your combustion chamber and valves as well.
One 11 ounce container of BG 44K should be able to treat up to 20 gallons of fuel. While not exactly a household name since you won’t typically find BG products at most local or online car parts stores, BG 445 Platinum is well known by many auto enthusiasts. Their reputation is well-earned when it comes to professional use products.
#4 – Liqui Moly Jectron Fuel Injection Cleaner
Well known among German car enthusiasts, Liqui Moly has a similar following as Sea Foam. Made in Germany, Liqui Moly will clean your injectors and keep your intake valves clear of deposits allowing for a smoother idle, more power, and better gas mileage.
It’s been known to improve throttle response, fix a rough idle, increase fuel economy, cure misfires, and even clear various emissions related diagnostic trouble codes. A bit spendier than some but one treatment of Liqui Moly Jectron is usually all it takes.
#5 – Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus Fuel System Cleaner
Chevron fuel system cleaners are used all around the world. They have their patented “Techron” technology which is really an additive for enhancing the performance of your engine.
It will boost the acceleration and power of your engine back to its original state and increase your miles per gallon at the same time.
Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus is safe for all ethanol fuels including E85 and other flex fuels. For its price, it’s a great first step towards troubleshooting various fuel and emissions system issues.
#6 – Red Line Complete SI-1 Fuel System Cleaner
Some consider this to be the top fuel injector cleaner on the market (mainly due to being made by a well-regarded brand). Although it is one of the more expensive cleaners, it contains polyether amines to enhance its cleaning potential to the max.
This means one 15 oz. bottle will completely clean the fuel injection system of your vehicle. Plus, Red Line SI-1 contains synthetic cylinder lubricants which enhance the quality of your combustion chambers and valves as well.
#7 – Royal Purple Max Atomizer Fuel Injector Cleaner
Royal Purple is a fuel injector cleaner that has been around for ages. They keep improving their cleaning formula with better abilities for eliminating carbon so that engines can perform as strong as they should be.
If your fuel injectors are particularly clogged, you’ll likely notice an increase in power, gas mileage, and smoother idling in 1-2 applications. Unlike some others, Royal Purple Max Atomizer is safe for both gasoline and diesel engines.
See Also: DTC P0201 (Fuel Injector Problem)
How Often to Use a Fuel Injector Cleaner
In general, most fuel injector brands recommend using their product every 3,000 to 5,000 miles to clean injectors. If you’re just going for maintenance, 1-2 times a year should be fine in most cases.
It’s worth noting that “Spirited” drivers will typically have cleaner injectors and engines in general as more fuel gets sprayed through the injectors. This is often enough to clear out some deposits on its own.
Contrary to that, those who have long highway commutes or who very rarely “mash the gas pedal” often have more problems with fuel system blockages.
He’s known for his attention to detail and problem-solving skills and enjoys coming up with out-of-the box solutions when the situation requires it.
When he's not troubleshooting customers' cars, you'll most likely find him working on his current project ('96 Bronco) or cooking Italian food for his family.
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I like AMSOIL fuel additive and cleaner in my vehicle
What about STP They have been around for Years! Surely not by luck.
I think you forgot to include Amsoil P.I.
Performance Improver in your evaluation. I use it frequently and get good results. Read their evaluation between their product vs Sea Foam.