With rising fuel prices and increasing environmental concerns, many Indian car buyers are considering Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles as an economical and eco-friendly alternative. While new CNG cars can be expensive, the used car market offers some budget-friendly options. However, buying a used CNG car comes with its own set of challenges and considerations.
If you’re planning to purchase a pre-owned CNG vehicle in India, here’s what you should expect and keep in mind.
1. Check Whether It’s Company-Fitted or Aftermarket CNG Kit
There are two types of CNG cars in the used market:
- Company-fitted CNG cars – Installed by the manufacturer, generally more reliable and covered under warranty.
- Aftermarket CNG conversions – Installed by third-party garages, can vary in quality and may affect engine life if not done properly.
Tip: Prefer company-fitted CNG cars when possible. If it’s aftermarket, ensure it’s an RTO-approved kit and installed by a reputed service provider.
2. Inspect the CNG Kit Thoroughly
CNG kits have several components—cylinder, valves, pressure regulator, switch, and more. Over time, these parts can wear out or require servicing.
Look for:
- Cylinder manufacturing date and hydro-testing validity (must be tested every 3 years)
- Signs of leakage, rust, or tampering
- Smooth switch-over between petrol and CNG modes
Pro Tip: Get the kit inspected by a certified CNG mechanic before finalizing the deal.
3. Mileage and Performance Expectations
CNG cars typically offer better mileage than petrol cars, but performance can dip slightly, especially during overtaking or climbing hills.
Realistic expectations:
- Mileage of 18–25 km/kg depending on the model
- Slightly reduced pickup compared to petrol variants
- May require more frequent tune-ups
Make sure you test drive the car on both CNG and petrol modes to feel the difference.
4. Service History and Engine Health
CNG is a dry fuel and can lead to valve wear over time. If the engine hasn’t been maintained properly, you could face expensive repairs.
What to ask for:
- Complete service records
- Last CNG filter change and tuning
- Engine compression test results (if available)
Avoid vehicles with erratic maintenance history or those that have skipped regular servicing.
5. Registration, Insurance, and Documentation
In India, vehicles with a CNG kit (especially aftermarket) must be registered with the RTO. Also, insurance should clearly mention the presence of a CNG kit.
Verify:
- RC book mentions “Fuel Type: Petrol+CNG”
- Valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Updated insurance policy with CNG endorsement
Failure to have these documents can lead to legal trouble and invalidate your insurance claim.
6. Running Cost vs Maintenance
Yes, CNG is cheap—roughly ₹75/kg compared to petrol at over ₹100/litre. But be ready for:
- More frequent maintenance (valve adjustments, filter cleaning)
- Limited boot space (due to the CNG cylinder)
- Occasional visits to CNG filling stations, which may have queues
Use our CNG Pump Locator on www.cngpumpnearme.com to find nearby filling stations and plan your trips better!
7. Resale Value and Future Viability
Used CNG cars tend to depreciate faster than petrol or diesel cars. But with growing environmental regulations and urban driving needs, demand may pick up again.
Consider brands/models with good resale value, like:
- Maruti Suzuki WagonR CNG
- Hyundai Santro CNG
- Maruti Ertiga CNG
Also, check if your city has policies that favor green fuels or restrict older vehicles.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used CNG car in India can be a smart choice for urban commuters, fleet owners, and eco-conscious drivers. However, it requires careful inspection, awareness of CNG-specific wear and tear, and access to refueling infrastructure.
At www.CNGPumpNearMe.com, we aim to make your CNG journey smoother. Use our tools to find pumps near you, stay updated on fuel prices, and explore more CNG vehicle tips.