Real-World Mileage Testing with a Volkswagen TDI

Customers sometimes ask whether a diesel fuel additive can improve fuel economy. The most honest answer is that results vary. Fuel quality, driving habits, vehicle condition, route, load, weather, and maintenance can all affect mileage.

One Real-World Example

This older customer-style comparison used a stock 2010 Volkswagen TDI driven on the same roads day after day. All products were used at the normal recommended dose.

Results reported in that test were:

No additive: 567 miles, 14.072 gallons, 40.29 mpg

Power Service Diesel Kleen: 604.3 miles, 14.369 gallons, 42.06 mpg

Opti-Lube XL Extreme Lubricant: 615.0 miles, 14.206 gallons, 43.29 mpg

Opti-Lube XPD: 635.7 miles, 14.245 gallons, 44.63 mpg

How to Read These Results

This type of test is useful as a real-world example, but it should not be treated as a guaranteed result for every vehicle. A diesel additive can help support lubricity, injector cleanliness, cetane, water separation, corrosion protection, and fuel quality, but fuel economy changes will vary from one engine and driving situation to another.

Best Takeaway

For most customers, the best reason to use a diesel fuel additive is long-term fuel system care and consistent fuel quality. If improved fuel economy follows, that is an added benefit.

Need help choosing? Start with Opti-Lube diesel fuel additives or review our FAQ for dosing, storage, and compatibility questions.