A fuel additive for fuel formulations comprising calcium sulfonates in an amount effective to limit or eliminate valve seat recession in engines utilizing such fuel formulations. The fuel additive may also include a detergent, particularly in an amount to enhance the VSR limiting effect of the calcium sulfonates. Also included are fuel formulations containing calcium sulfonates in a concentration effective to limit vale seat recession in engines utilizing the fuel formulations. Methods for treating VSR in piston engines are also provided.