Compressed natural gas is an efficient fuel source that is gaining popularity across the US. Many people and companies are opting now for CNG vehicles to use for both work and pleasure. Compressed natural gas vehicles need different maintenance and service than petroleum-based vehicles, so it’s important that owners and operators fully understand how to care for these vehicles to ensure safety and longevity. Take a look at the following tips for maintaining a CNG vehicle.

Properly fuel.

Fueling your CNG vehicle is similar to fueling a petroleum-based vehicle, but it’s not entirely the same. You want to be sure that you are choosing the correct nozzle to avoid any damage. You also want to be sure that you don’t overfill the tank. In most cases, the CNG pump will automatically shut off when the tank has reached its maximum pressure; however, you should still pay attention. Adding more gas to your tank will not give you an extra supply to rely on, but instead can make it easier for excess gas to leak. Finally, when you are you done fueling, you should reinstall the dust cap to keep dust and dirt particles off the fuel nozzle. By properly fueling your CNG vehicle, you can help maintain a long and useful life.

Park in the shade.

Although CNG is very safe, it’s always a good idea to avoid high temperatures when possible. When the weather is very hot, it’s a good idea to park your CNG vehicle in the shade. This will keep direct sunlight from hitting the vehicle and can reduce the chance of over-pressurization.

Have the vehicle serviced.

There are many components that go into making your CNG vehicle function properly, so it’s always a good idea to have your vehicle serviced by a certified technician. For instance, these individuals can inspect your CNG tank, your vehicle’s spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter and more to ensure your vehicle is safe and functioning properly. Putting your natural gas vehicle in the hands of a professional is always a good idea to ensure your vehicle is safe on the road.

By choosing a CNG vehicle, you can also extend the service life of the oil change interval because CNG is more of a clean burning fuel and oil does not build up with carbon as quickly as with gasoline or other fuels.

Ozinga has a team of certified technicians who can help you maintain your CNG vehicle properly. Contact our energy team today to schedule your vehicle service.