With the growing awareness of environmental protection, CNG (compressed natural gas) vehicles are becoming a popular choice for many car owners due to their affordability and low carbon footprint. However, CNG vehicles use fuel systems that differ from traditional fuel vehicles, requiring careful attention during daily maintenance and operation to prevent potential malfunctions or safety hazards. The following are essential tips for CNG vehicle maintenance and operation—must-read for all car owners!
With the growing awareness of environmental protection, CNG (compressed natural gas) vehicles are becoming a popular choice for their affordability and low carbon footprint.
However, the fuel system of CNG vehicles differs from that of traditional fuel vehicles, requiring special attention during daily maintenance and operation to prevent potential malfunctions or safety hazards.
The following are essential points for CNG vehicle maintenance and operation—must-read for all vehicle owners!
1. Fuel System Maintenance: Regular Inspection of Key Components
The core of a CNG vehicle is its natural gas system, requiring special attention to three key components:
Gas cylinders and pressure reducing valves: Inspect the cylinders monthly for scratches, corrosion, and loose screws.
Have cylinders inspected by a reputable service every two years to avoid expired use.
The pressure reducing valve should be inspected every 30,000 kilometers to prevent leaks and abnormal pressure.
In winter, ensure the valve's heating function is functioning properly to prevent frost from affecting gas supply.
Gas filling port and piping: After each refueling, check the gasket on the gas filling port to ensure it is intact and secure to prevent natural gas leaks.
Regularly inspect the CNG piping in the engine compartment. If any signs of aging or loose connections are found, replace or tighten them immediately to prevent danger from high temperatures.
Gas filter: Replacing the gas filter every 20,000 kilometers prevents impurities from clogging the lines, causing power loss or gas supply interruption. This is a must-have for routine maintenance on CNG vehicles.
2. Daily Use: Safety Determines Details
Starting and Switching: When starting a cold engine, it is recommended to start with fuel first. Wait until the engine temperature reaches above 40°C before switching to natural gas.
This prevents incomplete combustion of natural gas at low temperatures, which could damage the engine. If you need to switch fuels while driving, do so only when the vehicle is moving steadily. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking.
Refueling Precautions: Before refueling, turn off the engine and apply the parking brake.
Do not use your mobile phone at the gas station. If you notice a leak at the gas port while refueling, stop immediately and contact a repair technician.
Do not fill the gas cylinder to capacity; leave 5%-10% headroom to prevent gas expansion at high temperatures and excessive pressure.
Emergency Measures: If you smell an unusual natural gas odor while driving, immediately open the windows, turn off the gas valve, switch to fuel, and visit a nearby repair shop for inspection.
If you detect a leak in the gas cylinder or line, pull over immediately, turn off the engine, stay away from any source of fire, and call emergency services. Do not attempt to repair the system yourself.
3. Long-Term Maintenance Tips: Extending Vehicle Life
Due to the characteristics of CNG fuel, spark plugs in CNG vehicles require inspection every 5,000 kilometers.
If the electrodes are severely worn, they should be replaced promptly.
The engine oil used should meet "CNG vehicle-specific" standards to prevent the accelerated aging of conventional oils due to the acidic substances produced by natural gas combustion.
When parking the vehicle for long periods, ensure that the gas cylinder is at least 1/4 full of natural gas to prevent moisture and corrosion on the inner wall of the cylinder.
