Diesel Fuel Containing Red Dye in the United States and Canada
The Governments of the United States and Canada impose an excise tax on diesel fuel. However, certain fuel uses are tax-exempt or subject to a reduced rate. These uses include: heating, farming, off-road vehicles, use by state or local governments or non-profit educational organizations, and boats engaged in fishing or transportation.
The red dye is added to ensure diesel fuels with high sulfur content are not used for on-road vehicles and to ensure tax-exempt diesel fuel is not used for taxable purposes. After 2012, the only diesel fuel produced containing high-sulfur in the United States and Canada is heating oil.
The use of red diesel fuel will not cause any problems with the fuel or exhaust aftertreatment systems.
Inspecting for Fuel Contaminants
- Test the fuel specific gravity and record the results. Refer to Fuel Specific Gravity Testing
- Remove the fuel filter and inspect the inside area of the fuel filter for dirt, water deposits, microbial contamination, or other debris.
- Drain the fuel filter into an approved clear container and allow the contents to settle. Observe the container for contaminant separation.
- If contaminants are present in the fuel or in any of the inspected areas, remove the fuel lines to the injectors and inspect the fuel injector return outlets and feed inlets for rust or corrosion.
The presence of water or gasoline in diesel fuel may also cause damage to other fuel system components.
- Replace the fuel injectors if rust or corrosion is present. Refer to Fuel Injector Replacement , and Fuel System Cleaning .
- If rust or corrosion was not present in the injectors, but contaminated fuel was present, refer to Fuel System Cleaning and attempt to start and run the engine after procedure is completed.
- If rust, corrosion or water is present, test the Water in Fuel Sensor for proper operation. Refer to Water-in-Fuel Lamp Diagnosis