Consumers with 2007 or later model year diesel vehicles should only fuel them with ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD). ULSD is a cleaner-burning diesel fuel that contains 97% less sulfur than low-sulfur diesel (LSD). ULSD was developed to allow the use of improved pollution control devices that reduce diesel emissions more effectively but can be damaged by sulfur. It is also safe to use with older diesels.

Get the Right Stuff Most diesel pumps in the U.S., and all in California, currently dispense ULSD. However, since retailers can still sell regular LSD until 2010, new disel owners should be careful when purchasing fuel. Pumps dispensing ULSD must be labeled as such (except in California). Labels similar to those shown here can be found on the upper two-thirds of the pump.

ULSD LSD Off-Road

More Information

Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel is the primary highway diesel fuel produced.
(Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance)

Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel: Summary Results of ULSD Quality and Availability
(EPA)

Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel
(Diesel Technology Forum)