Last Updated on June 30, 2022
Every modern vehicle has a fuel injection system in it. The function of a fuel injector is to spray gasoline into the corresponding cylinder of an engine to start the internal combustion process. However, these fuel injectors can get clogged with debris as time goes on.
Old or bad gas can contain contaminants like carbon particles, dirt, and additives will negatively effect the injectors and cause them to malfunction. Dirty fuel injectors could spray fuel at irregular patterns into the engine, which would cause your gas performance and gas mileage to suffer for it. Eventually, they can get clogged enough where you won’t be able to start the car or keep it running.
When fuel injectors start to go bad, you can either replace the injector or you can use a good fuel injector cleaner. Like many car problems, most will start with the cheaper and easier option to fix an issue. In this case, a fuel system cleaner would be that option.
Below are 6 of the best fuel injector cleaners that have a proven track record.
See Also: Brake Cleaner vs Throttle Body Cleaner vs Carb Cleaner
Top 7 Fuel Injector 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.
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.
What about STP They have been around for Years! Surely not by luck.
I like AMSOIL fuel additive and cleaner in my vehicle