You get back in your car.
There’s a smell.
It’s faint. But it’s there.
As an LPG driver, that smell can instantly spark worry. Is this just regular venting after a fill-up? Or is it a genuine leak?
Knowing the difference matters.
First: Don’t Panic − But Also, Don’t Ignore It
LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is intentionally odorized so that any leak is easily detectable. So, if there’s a leak, you generally smell it right away.
But not all smells are an indication of danger.
Sometimes there might be a hint of it after refuelling which soon goes away. This may occur as a result of the slight venting that can take place during disconnection.
What’s normal?
Anything beyond that needs attention.
Signs It’s Probably Just Blowing Off Steam
This only occurs after filling the LPG tank and can be as your gas bottle doesn’t quite release all of its gas after being filled. That’s usually harmless.
You may be witnessing temporary venting if:
- The smell began shortly after refuelled
- It fades quickly
- You detect none of that from inside the car
Here watch it, in this instance. If it vanishes after just a few minutes, that’s probably normal.
Warning Signs of a Real Leak
Persistent or severe gas odour is not normal.
If you see any of the following, stop driving right away:
- A powerful smell of gas in the cabin
- Headaches or dizziness
- Hissing noises coming from around the tank or under the hood
- Smell that increases while driving
Pull over safely. Turn off the engine. Exit the vehicle.
Do not smoke. Do not operate until checked.
A leak is seldom but it should be checked professionally.
What Causes LPG Leaks?
Safety: LPG systems are designed for your safety. But as with any fuel system, it can encounter wear and tear.
Common causes include:
- Worn hoses
- Faulty seals
- Loose fittings after servicing
- Damaged lines
Early detection. One of the benefits of your routine LPG vehicle servicing is early detection of these problems.
Skipping inspections increases risk.
Why Professional Inspection Matters?
Never try at home the LPG system repair at home.
These systems operate under pressure. They need to be handled by certified mechanics with the right equipment.
Companies such as A1 Gas & Mechanical Services focus on examining LPG parts, pressure systems, and safety valves.
If your vehicle has recently been converted to LPG (Factory fitted LPG cars excluded) it’s vital that all fittings and connections be checked for correct fitment.
Professional checks remove doubt.
How Often Should You Service?
LPG vehicle service. Maintenance your LPG car for motoring safety & performance. Why maintains your vehicle?
Servicing usually includes:
- Leak testing
- Regulator inspection
- Hose condition checks
- Tank valve assessment
If your car got full LPG conversion, it must adhere to manufacturer specific service intervals.
Neglecting service will cause problems to occur.
Quick Safety Checklist
If you smell gas:
- Stay calm.
- Pull over safely.
- Turn off the engine.
- Exit the vehicle.
- Contact a licensed technician.
If you can still smell it, don’t keep going.
Safety Comes First
A slight smell after filling is normal.
Let’s start with what doesn’t qualify: A lingering odour inside your cabin.
If you are not sure, err on the side of seriousness and seek advice from a professional.
An LPG car is surely safe when it’s in good condition. Regular LPG vehicle servicing and proper LPG conversions will mean that you get performance & peace of mind.
And when it comes to gas, caution is always safer than guessing.
