30/03/2005
Owning a car powered by Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), often known as autogas, presents a fantastic opportunity for significant fuel savings and a reduced environmental footprint. However, to truly reap these benefits and ensure your vehicle remains reliable, proper servicing and regular inspections of the LPG installation are absolutely paramount. Just like any other complex system within your vehicle, the LPG system thrives on consistent care. Neglecting its maintenance can lead to costly repairs and diminished performance, undermining the very reason you chose LPG in the first place.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of LPG maintenance, outlining how often your system should be checked, what vital components are inspected, and what typical costs you can expect. We’ll also touch upon the benefits of LPG conversion and how these initial investments are quickly offset by long-term fuel economy. Ensuring your LPG system is well-maintained is the easiest way to guarantee trouble-free motoring and keep those impressive savings coming.
Understanding LPG: An Economical & Greener Choice
Before diving into maintenance, it's worth understanding what LPG is and why it's a popular alternative fuel. LPG, or Autogas, is a mixture of propane and butane gases that are pressurised into a liquid. It's widely available at refuelling stations across the UK, offering a compelling alternative to traditional petrol or diesel. The primary appeal lies in its cost-effectiveness, with potential savings of up to 50% on fuel prices compared to petrol. Furthermore, LPG burns cleaner, resulting in lower CO2 emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
Converting a vehicle to LPG involves installing an additional fuel tank and a separate system that allows the car to run on either LPG or petrol, making it a dual-fuel vehicle. This versatility means you're less likely to be stranded if you run out of one fuel source, and it extends your overall driving range significantly. While the initial conversion cost can be an investment, the consistent fuel savings quickly make it worthwhile.
LPG Conversion Costs at a Glance
For those considering the switch, here’s an overview of typical conversion costs:
| Conversion Type | Typical Cost (Average) |
|---|---|
| Petrol to LPG Conversion | £1,200 |
| Diesel to LPG Conversion | £1,500 - £2,000 (Avg. £1,750) |
These costs can vary based on factors such as the size of the LPG tank, whether your car is petrol or diesel (diesel conversions are generally more complex and thus pricier), the specific brand and layout of your vehicle, and any additional parts required. The condition of your existing car and accessibility for installation can also influence the final price. While a DIY conversion might seem tempting to save money, it is highly unadvisable due to the complexity, specialist tools required, and significant safety risks involved. Improper installation can lead to severe damage to your vehicle or personal injury, and it will almost certainly invalidate your car insurance.
How Often Should Your LPG System Be Serviced?
The longevity and efficiency of your LPG system depend heavily on regular, timely servicing. Unlike general car servicing, LPG system checks focus on specific components that endure unique stresses. Generally, LPG installations require servicing either annually or every 10,000 km (approximately 6,200 miles), or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Many specialists recommend scheduling your LPG inspection in the spring. This is because the installation works under the harshest conditions during winter, making spring an ideal time to assess wear and tear on components.
Beyond these recommended intervals, your car with an autogas installation must undergo a mandatory annual technical inspection. This inspection, carried out by a diagnostician, specifically checks the LPG tank approval certificate and the installation method, ensuring it complies with safety standards. It's also crucial to visit a workshop immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms or faults with your LPG system, such as a drop in performance or an unusual smell.
The LPG Tank: A Critical Component
A key element of your LPG system is the gas tank itself, which is designed to withstand considerable pressure. Due to its critical safety role, the LPG tank requires re-verification every 10 years. After this period, it must either be re-legalised or replaced with a new one. This ensures the tank continues to meet stringent safety regulations and can safely contain the high-pressure gas. While the cost for re-legalisation can vary, it is a necessary expense to maintain the legality and safety of your LPG vehicle.
What Does an LPG Service Involve & What Are the Costs?
Servicing your LPG installation is a proactive measure that, despite associated costs, offers significant long-term savings. The typical annual maintenance cost for an LPG system is relatively modest, usually ranging from £80 to £120. This fee generally covers labour and essential parts, primarily the replacement of filters. While some advanced systems, like Prins, might incur slightly higher filter costs (e.g., £105 for a 4-cylinder car), the overall expense is a small price to pay for trouble-free operation and continued fuel efficiency.
It's important to budget for the annual technical inspection as well. For a car equipped with an LPG installation, this test costs £161, compared to the standard £99 for petrol or diesel vehicles. This additional cost reflects the extra checks required for the LPG system.
Essential Checks During an LPG Service
A thorough LPG service involves several critical steps to ensure every part of the system is functioning correctly and safely. Here’s a breakdown of what a qualified mechanic will typically check:
- Computer Diagnostics: This involves connecting the car's computer to specialist diagnostic equipment. The mechanic will check for any error codes related to both the gas and petrol controllers. This step also allows for fine-tuning or updating the LPG installation software, optimising performance and efficiency.
- Gas Filter Replacement: Your LPG system usually contains two types of filters: a vapour phase filter and a liquid phase filter. Both are crucial for trapping impurities and preventing them from reaching sensitive components. These filters must be replaced at every service inspection. Failing to replace dirty filters can lead to significant damage to the reducer and/or the injectors, resulting in much higher repair bills. This is arguably the most vital routine maintenance task.
- Reducer Check: The reducer (also known as the evaporator) is responsible for converting liquid LPG into a gaseous state before it enters the engine. The mechanic will inspect its condition. If you've noticed uneven engine operation, particularly at idle, it's crucial to mention this to your mechanic, as it could indicate an issue with the reducer.
- Leak Test: Using a specialised gas detector, the mechanic will meticulously check the tightness of all connections and components throughout the entire LPG system. Gas leaks are a severe safety hazard and must be addressed immediately. If you ever detect an unpleasant smell of gas from your vehicle, arrange a service appointment without delay.
- Wiring and Electrical Contacts Check: The integrity of the electrical system is vital. This check involves inspecting the condition of all wires, insulation, and electrical contacts within the LPG system, including the gas bus located under the car.
- Hoses and Clamps Inspection: All rubber hoses and their clamps within the LPG system are inspected for signs of wear, cracking, or deterioration. Damaged hoses or loose clamps can lead to leaks or inefficient operation.
In addition to these LPG-specific checks, it's also advisable for owners of gas-powered cars to have their general electrical system, spark plugs, and ignition wires checked more frequently. Monitoring the condition of your coolant is also important, as the LPG reducer often uses engine coolant to heat the gas. Each part of the LPG system, while having different lifespans, is equally important for the safe and proper operation of your vehicle.
Estimated LPG Maintenance & Running Costs
| Service/Item | Estimated Cost (UK) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Annual LPG Service (parts & labour) | £80 - £120 | Annually or every 10,000 km / 12,000 miles |
| Mandatory Annual Technical Inspection (LPG car) | £161 | Annually |
| LPG Tank Re-legalisation | Varies (every 10 years) | Every 10 years |
| Cost to Run Converted LPG Car (per litre) | £0.60 - £0.67 (Avg. £0.64) | Ongoing fuel cost |
| Standard Petrol Car Annual Technical Inspection | £99 | Annually |
As you can see, while there are additional costs associated with LPG vehicle ownership, the significant savings on fuel often outweigh these expenses, making it a highly economical choice in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions About LPG Maintenance
How much does diesel LPG conversion cost?
Converting a diesel car to LPG is generally more expensive than a petrol conversion due to the increased complexity of the process. The average cost for a diesel to LPG conversion in the UK ranges from £1,500 to £2,000, with an average around £1,750. Despite the higher initial outlay, the substantial fuel savings often make it a worthwhile investment for high-mileage drivers.
What is the cost to run a converted LPG car?
The cost to run a converted LPG car is significantly lower than a petrol equivalent. On average, LPG fuel costs between £0.60 and £0.67 per litre, with a typical average of £0.64 per litre. This represents considerable savings compared to current petrol prices, which can often be double this amount. These savings quickly recoup the initial conversion cost.
How many miles can I drive on a full LPG and petrol tank?
The total range achievable on full LPG and petrol tanks largely depends on the capacity of both tanks in your vehicle. However, with sufficiently sized tanks, it is not uncommon for a dual-fuel LPG car to achieve a combined range of up to 700 miles before needing to refuel either system. This extended range is one of the practical benefits of having a dual-fuel setup.
Can I service my LPG system myself?
No, it is strongly advised against attempting to service or convert your LPG system yourself unless you are a certified professional with extensive experience. LPG systems operate under high pressure and involve complex fuel lines and electronics. Improper handling can lead to serious safety hazards, including gas leaks, fires, or explosions. Furthermore, any self-performed work will likely invalidate your car's insurance and warranty. Always entrust your LPG system to qualified and reputable workshops.
Conclusion
Investing in regular and proper LPG maintenance is not merely an expense; it is a crucial investment in the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your vehicle. By adhering to recommended service schedules, promptly addressing any concerns, and entrusting your car to qualified professionals, you ensure that your LPG system continues to deliver the significant fuel savings and environmental benefits you sought in the first place. A well-maintained LPG car is a reliable, economical, and environmentally conscious choice for the discerning driver.
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