Everything You Need to Know About LPG

LPG, short for liquefied petroleum gas, is derived from the distillation of natural gas or crude oil. Used in over 21 million vehicles worldwide, LPG is one of the most common alternative fuels today, powering approximately 5 million vehicles in Türkiye. These vehicles are capable of running on both gasoline and LPG. Although LPG is widely used, there are still many questions and misconceptions surrounding it. Here, we address some of the most common questions and their answers.

LPG—also known as liquefied petroleum gas—is a widely used energy source. Naturally colorless and odorless, LPG is odorized at terminals or refineries for safety reasons. LPG is produced either during the refining of crude oil or as a by-product extracted from natural gas fields, consisting mainly of a specific blend of butane and propane gases. This combination makes LPG a highly combustible and efficient fuel. Beyond transportation, LPG is also used for cooking, heating, marine applications, and various industrial processes.

To ensure efficient fuel consumption, vehicles with LPG systems require a specific calibration process known as LPG adjustment. In sequential injection systems, the LPG adjustment is performed using computer diagnostics, while in carbureted vehicles, it is manually adjusted through the regulator screws. For sequential systems, the adjustment includes setting the switching temperature to LPG and calibrating the air–fuel mixture. The air–fuel adjustment regulates the amount of fuel delivered to the engine per unit of time. This calibration is performed via computer based on the engine’s RPM range. Regular LPG adjustment and maintenance help ensure more efficient fuel usage. Therefore, it is highly recommended to have your LPG system checked periodically.

One of the most frequently asked questions about LPG is whether it offers cost savings. The primary reasons for switching to LPG are its lower price per liter compared to gasoline and its reduced exhaust emissions. Therefore, it is accurate to say that LPG offers tangible fuel savings. So, how much can LPG really save? The lower price of LPG per liter compared to other fuels provides drivers with a clear economic advantage. To maximize fuel efficiency in LPG-powered vehicles, it is essential to adopt a smooth driving style, avoid sudden acceleration or braking, and ensure regular vehicle maintenance. By following these guidelines, you can achieve fuel savings of approximately 25–35% with an LPG-powered vehicle.

The question “LPG or gasoline?” is one that often preoccupies the minds of gasoline vehicle owners and prospective car buyers alike. When evaluating “Which is more economical: gasoline or LPG?”, it is best to compare the fuel consumption rates of LPG-powered vehicles with those of gasoline vehicles, while also considering the price difference between gasoline and autogas. A quick calculation can help determine how much you would save per 100 km with an LPG-powered car, allowing you to assess whether switching from gasoline to LPG makes financial sense. As a practical rule of thumb, multiply the price of LPG per liter by 1.2 to account for calorific value differences, and then compare that number to the price of gasoline. For instance, if LPG costs TL 10 per liter while gasoline costs TL 20, driving with autogas would yield an advantage of roughly TL 8 per liter—on top of the environmental and ecological benefits it provides.

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While LPG consumption varies depending on vehicle type, engine power, and driving distance, an average estimate is possible. It is also important to consider the efficiency of the LPG conversion kit installed in your vehicle. On average, an LPG-powered car consumes about 9–10 liters per 100 km.

A vehicle does not consume more engine oil simply because it runs on LPG. According to automotive experts, it is normal for about one-quarter of the engine oil to be consumed every 10,000 km. However, this rate may vary depending on the engine type and technology used. If oil consumption exceeds this level, the vehicle should be inspected. Provided the engine components such as pistons, sleeves, valves, valve seats, and gaskets meet required standards, LPG use does not cause additional oil consumption. If your LPG-powered vehicle is losing oil, it may indicate the presence of minor leaks or clogged passages formed over time by deposits. It is also common for vehicles that have surpassed 150,000 km to experience a natural increase in oil consumption.

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And do not miss our article Why It’s Important to Use Engine Oil Specifically Designed for LPG Vehicles.