Best Starting Fluids of 2025

David Davis Avatar
David Davis
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Starting fluids are a type of aerosol spray that is designed to help start engines that are having trouble starting. They are typically used in cold weather or when an engine has been sitting for a while and needs a little extra help getting started. These fluids work by providing a highly flammable substance that can be sprayed directly into the engine's air intake or carburetor, which helps to ignite the fuel and get the engine running. Starting fluids are a popular choice for people who own cars, trucks, boats, and other gasoline-powered equipment, and they are widely available at auto parts stores and other retailers.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Johnsen's 6762-12PK Starting Fluid Cover #TOP 1
Johnsen's 6762-12PK Starting Fluid
ftb score rating icon 9.9
STA-BIL Starting Fluid for Gasoline and Diesel Engines Cover #TOP 2
STA-BIL Starting Fluid for Gasoline and Diesel Engines
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Gumout Starting Fluid for Gasoline Engines Cover #TOP 3
Gumout Starting Fluid for Gasoline Engines
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Starting Fluids

#TOP 1

Johnsen's 6762-12PK Starting Fluid

6762-12PK
10.7 Ounce
Johnsen's 6762-12PK Starting Fluid Cover
Johnsen's 6762-12PK Starting Fluid - 10.7 oz., (Pack of 12)

Johnsen's 6762-12PK Starting Fluid is a powerful tool to help start stubborn engines fast in cold weather. It also saves batteries and contains upper cylinder lubricants. With a performance to -65°F, it is a great option for those living in cold weather areas.

What We Like
Effective for small engines
Great for hard-to-reach areas
Reliable for stubborn engines
Works on gasoline and diesel
Convenient for cold climates
#TOP 2

STA-BIL Starting Fluid for Gasoline and Diesel Engines

22004
11 oz. (Each)
STA-BIL Starting Fluid for Gasoline and Diesel Engines Cover
STA-BIL Gold Eagle 22004 Starting Fluid - 11 oz.

STA-BIL Starting Fluid is perfect for gasoline and diesel engines of cars, trucks, motorcycles, tractors, buses, marine engines, lawnmowers, snowmobiles, snow blowers, construction equipment, etc. Its formula contains upper cylinder lubricant as well as corrosion inhibitors, ensuring faster starts even in temperatures as low as -65°F. Furthermore, it is safe for catalytic convertors or oxygen sensors. Made in the U. S. A.

What We Like
Easy to use
Effective starting fluid
Good value for money
Fast shipping
Powerful cleaning ability
What We Don't Like
Requires additional maintenance if prolonged use
#TOP 3

Gumout Starting Fluid for Gasoline Engines

5072866
White
11 Ounce
Gumout Starting Fluid for Gasoline Engines Cover
Gumout 5072866 Starting Fluid - starter fluid spray for gasoline engines and lawn mowers to inhibit corrosion and lubricate upper cylinders - Extreme weather, carb, air cleaner, or intake, 11 oz.

Gumout 5072866 Starting Fluid is perfect for gasoline engines, offering fast and smooth starting in extreme cold or humid weather. It also lubricates upper cylinders to extend engine life and inhibits corrosion. This starting fluid is a reliable choice for every driver who wants to get their engine going in any weather condition.

What We Like
Great cleaning ability
Effective for stubborn engines
Inexpensive and good value
Easy to use
No leakage
What We Don't Like
Flammable and unhealthy for engines
Use sparingly recommended
#TOP 4

11OZ Starting Fluid Pack of 12

PYSFR11
11OZ Starting Fluid Pack of 12 Cover
11OZ Starting Fluid (Pack of 12)

This 11 Oz pack of 12 starting fluids is perfect for both gasoline and diesel engines. It allows you to start your engine quickly and reduces battery drain. With this starting fluid, you can easily start both diesel or gasoline engines without any hassle.

What We Like
Effective for farm equipment
High-quality starting fluid
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Limited context provided
#TOP 5

Niteo Motor Medic Thrust Starting Fluid

M3815-12PK
Case of 12, 11 oz.
Niteo Motor Medic Thrust Starting Fluid Cover
Niteo Products Motor Medic M3815-12PK Thrust Starting Fluid for Gas & Diesel Engines - 11 oz., (Case of 12)

The Niteo Motor Medic Thrust Starting Fluid is designed to help start gasoline and diesel engines quickly in extreme cold. It prevents battery and ignition damage during cold weather and contains corrosion inhibitors. Its effectiveness extends to as low as -65⁰F, making it a reliable option for harsh winter conditions.

What We Like
Guaranteed instant startup
Effective for older generators
Helps with carburetor gunk
Rugged and reliable model
What We Don't Like
Some spray nozzles damaged
Box arrived in poor condition
#TOP 6

Johnsen's 6752 Starting Fluid

6752
10.7 Ounce
Johnsen's 6752 Starting Fluid Cover
Johnsen's 6752 Premium Starting Fluid -10.7 oz

Johnsen's 6752 Starting Fluid is a premium product designed to help you start stubborn engines quickly in cold weather. With its 50% ether blend, it provides a powerful boost of energy to get your engine running smoothly. This starting fluid also contains an upper cylinder lubricant, which helps to reduce friction and wear on the engine's moving parts. Not only does it save your battery by reducing the strain on it, but it also performs exceptionally well in extremely cold temperatures, down to -65°F. If you're tired of struggling to start your engine on frosty mornings, Johnsen's Starting Fluid is the perfect solution.

What We Like
Effective starting aid
Quick engine start
Long-lasting potency
Convenient for repairs
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
#TOP 7

Lucas Oil Sure Start Starting Fluid

11238
Lucas Oil Sure Start Starting Fluid Cover
Lucas Oil 11238 Sure Start Premium Starting Fluid - 10.7 Ounce (Pack of 12)

Lucas Oil Starting Fluid is designed to help you quickly start stubborn engines, especially in cold weather. If you’ve ever struggled to get your vehicle or equipment running on a chilly morning, this product can save you time and frustration. It also helps preserve your battery life, ensuring you won’t be left stranded. With its upper cylinder lubricant, it provides additional protection to your engine, enhancing its performance. Capable of functioning at temperatures as low as -65°F, this starting fluid is suitable for a range of equipment, including cars, lawn mowers, and chainsaws.

What We Like
Quick engine starts
Battery-saving formula
Engine protection
Works in extreme cold
#TOP 8

Johnsen's 6732 Premium Starting Fluid

6732-12PK
7.2 Ounce
Johnsen's 6732 Premium Starting Fluid Cover
Johnsen's 6732-12PK Premium Starting Fluid - 7.2 oz., (Pack of 12)

Johnsen's Starting Fluid is designed to help you kickstart stubborn engines quickly, especially in cold weather. With a 50% ether blend, this product is effective even at temperatures as low as -65°F. Whether you’re working with passenger cars, diesel engines, or outdoor equipment like lawn mowers and chain saws, this starting fluid ensures efficient performance. It is also compatible with injector systems found in heavy-duty engines, making it a versatile choice for various applications. You’ll appreciate the convenience it brings when you need reliable engine starts in challenging conditions.

What We Like
Long shelf life
Effective at igniting
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Potentially dangerous
#TOP 9

PYROIL PYSFR11 Starting Fluid, Aerosol

PYSFR11
PYROIL PYSFR11 Starting Fluid, Aerosol Cover
PYROIL PYSFR11 Starting Fluid, Aerosol, 11 Oz.

This PYROIL PYSFR11 Starting Fluid, Aerosol is an auto accessory that helps start engines faster. The package contains 11 oz of starting fluid in an aerosol can. It is made in the United States with package dimensions of 6.731 cms (L) x 6.731 cms (W) x 20.574 cms (H). This starting fluid falls under the category of Starting Fluids.

What We Like
Reliable starting aid
Reduces mower frustration
Effective for sluggish engines
Useful for various machines
What We Don't Like
Single can received
Price perceived as high
#TOP 10

Stens Niteo M3815 Starting Fluid

752-942
One Each, 11 oz.
Stens Niteo M3815 Starting Fluid Cover
Stens Niteo - M3815 Stens 752-942 Starting Fluid

This Starting Fluid is designed to fit specific vehicles, with package dimensions of 6.604 H x 20.828 L x 6.604 W centimetres, and a package weight of 0.85 pounds. It is made in the United States and has a flash point of -17.0 degrees_celsius. This is a great product to have on hand when starting a vehicle on a cold day.

What We Like
Effective engine starting aid
Works well on lawn mowers
Trusted brand with history
Revives winter-stalled equipment
What We Don't Like
Not effective for carburetor damage
Buying Guide Image

The Right Starting Fluids for Your Car

Introduction

Starting fluids, also known as ether, are a popular choice among mechanics and DIYers alike for helping to start a stubborn engine. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we'll go over some of the key factors to consider when choosing a starting fluid, as well as some of the top products available.

Factors to Consider

When it comes to choosing a starting fluid, there are a few key factors to consider:

  1. Compatibility: Not all starting fluids are compatible with all engines. Some are designed for use with gasoline engines, while others are specifically for diesel engines. Be sure to choose a starting fluid that is compatible with your engine.

  2. Viscosity: The viscosity of a starting fluid refers to its thickness. A thicker starting fluid may be more effective at penetrating the engine and providing the necessary lubrication, but it can also be harder to atomize and may not burn as cleanly. Thinner starting fluids, on the other hand, are easier to atomize and burn cleanly, but may not provide as much lubrication.

  3. Flash point: The flash point of a starting fluid refers to the temperature at which it will ignite. A lower flash point means that the starting fluid is more flammable, which can be helpful in starting a cold engine. However, it can also be more dangerous to handle, so it's important to use caution and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

  4. Price: As with any product, the price of starting fluids can vary widely. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that you often get what you pay for. Higher-quality starting fluids may be more expensive, but they may also be more effective and safer to use.

Top Products

  1. STP Starting Fluid: STP is a well-known brand in the automotive industry, and their starting fluid is no exception. It is compatible with both gasoline and diesel engines, and has a viscosity of 1.5 cSt at 100°F. Its flash point is -60°F, making it effective at starting cold engines.

  2. CRC Starting Fluid: CRC is another trusted brand, and their starting fluid is designed for use with gasoline engines. It has a viscosity of 1.2 cSt at 100°F and a flash point of -65°F.

  3. Super Tech Starting Fluid: This starting fluid is made by Walmart's in-house brand, Super Tech. It is compatible with gasoline engines, and has a viscosity of 1.4 cSt at 100°F and a flash point of -65°F.

  4. Lucas Starting Fluid: Lucas is a popular choice among mechanics, and their starting fluid is designed for use with both gasoline and diesel engines. It has a viscosity of 1.5 cSt at 100°F and a flash point of -65°F.

Conclusion

Choosing the right starting fluid can make a big difference when it comes to starting a stubborn engine. By considering factors such as compatibility, viscosity, flash point, and price, you can choose a starting fluid that will be effective and safe to use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What can work as starting fluid?

Carburetor spray can work as an alternative to starting fluid. However, it is recommended to use specific engine starting spray when available, as it has lower pressure and a mist-like nozzle that is more suitable for starting engines.

2. Is it good to use starting fluid?

Using starting fluid can be helpful in starting a stubborn engine, but it should be used sparingly and according to the directions. If a small amount doesn't work, using more starting fluid is unlikely to solve the problem. If your engine consistently has difficulty starting, it is best to identify and address the underlying issue.

3. What happens if you use too much starting fluid?

Using too much starting fluid, especially on a two-stroke engine, can prevent the oil mixture from properly lubricating the engine. This can lead to damage to bearings and pistons and potentially result in engine failure.

4. Can I use brake cleaner as starting fluid?

In emergency situations, brake cleaner can be used as a substitute for starting fluid. However, it is important to note that this should only be a temporary solution and not a regular practice.

5. Can starter fluid damage the engine?

Using excessive amounts of starter fluid, particularly on a two-stroke engine, can interfere with the lubrication provided by the oil mixture. This can cause damage to bearings and pistons over time, potentially leading to engine failure.

6. Will WD-40 clean a carburetor?

Yes, WD-40 can be used to clean a carburetor. It is safe for the device and can effectively clean the carburetor, throttle body, and unpainted metal parts of the machine. WD-40's dual-action cleaning system ensures a thorough cleaning of the carburetor.

Editor's Notes

During our starting fluid research, we found 24 starting fluid products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 30,113 customer reviews through our big data system to write the starting fluids list. We found that most customers choose starting fluids with an average price of $20.31.

The starting fluids are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of starting fluids, including Johnsen's, STA-BIL, Gumout, Pyroil, Motor Medic. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,146 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by
David Davis Avatar

David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.

Starting Fluids Comparison Table

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Brand Johnsen's STA-BIL Gumout Pyroil Motor Medic Johnsen's Lucas Oil Johnsen's PYROIL Stens
Package Information Can Bottle - Bottle Bottle Can Can Can Can Bottle
Liquid Volume 10.7 Fluid Ounces 11 - 11 Fluid Ounces 11 Fluid Ounces 10.7 Liters 10.7 Fluid Ounces 86.4 Fluid Ounces 11 Fluid Ounces 325 Milliliters
Item Weight 10.7 Ounces 14.1 Ounces - 8.3 Pounds 10.9 Pounds 7.2 Ounces - 8 Pounds 16 ounces 13.6 ounces
Material Aluminum or Steel Steel - - Polytetrafluoroethylene Polytetrafluoroethylene - - Aluminum Lubricant
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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