The Differences Between Factory Fitted and Aftermarket CNG Kits for Cars

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) kits have become increasingly popular as a cleaner and more economical alternative to traditional gasoline or diesel engines. While both factory fitted and aftermarket CNG kits offer the benefits of running on natural gas, there are several key differences between the two that affect their compatibility, performance, safety, and cost. Understanding these differences is crucial for car owners considering an upgrade to a CNG system.

What is a Factory Fitted CNG Kit?

A factory fitted CNG kit, also known as an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) kit, is integrated into a car during the manufacturing process. This means the kit is designed to work seamlessly with the car’s existing engine and other components. Some key features of a factory fitted CNG kit include a higher compression ratio, different cam timing, hardened and cooled exhaust valves, and other specialized parts that enhance the performance of a natural gas engine. These components are typically more resistant to wear and tear, resulting in longer-lasting performance.

What is an Aftermarket CNG Kit?

Aftermarket CNG kits are installed separately from the original car setup. They provide the means to convert a traditional fuel engine into a CNG-powered one. However, the integration and adjustments required to ensure the performance and safety of these kits may not be as refined as those found in factory fitted kits. Aftermarket kits often focus more on the basic functionality of converting a vehicle to run on natural gas but may lack some of the advanced components and engineering refinements found in factory fitted systems.

Key Differences Between Factory Fitted and Aftermarket CNG Kits

Performance and Reliability

Factory fitted CNG kits are typically more reliable due to the advanced engineering and testing that goes into them. The integration of these kits with the car’s existing systems ensures optimal performance and minimal alteration to the car’s original setup. On the other hand, aftermarket CNG kits may require some degree of customization and tuning to ensure compatibility with the car’s engine and other systems, which can sometimes lead to performance issues.

Cost

Factory fitted CNG kits are often more expensive than their aftermarket counterparts. However, they are usually covered under the warranty of the car, providing peace of mind and financial protection. Aftermarket kits can be more budget-friendly initially, but the lack of integration and potential customization needs might result in higher long-term costs, including the need for specialized maintenance and tuning.

Safety and Compliance

Safety is a critical factor when it comes to CNG kits. Factory fitted CNG kits are more likely to meet the required safety and regulatory standards since they are designed and manufactured by the car's original manufacturer. This ensures that the kit is safe to use and compatible with the rest of the car’s systems. Aftermarket CNG kits, unless certified by a reputable agency, may not meet these same safety standards, leading to potential risks. It is crucial to ensure that any aftermarket kit you install is certified by a recognized authority to guarantee safety and compliance.

Conclusion

When choosing between a factory fitted and an aftermarket CNG kit, it is essential to weigh the benefits, costs, and risks carefully. Factory fitted CNG kits offer superior performance, reliability, and safety, but they come with a higher price tag. Aftermarket kits can be a more affordable option, but they require more customization and may lack the same level of integration and safety features. For optimal performance, safety, and peace of mind, factory fitted CNG kits are generally the preferred choice.

Conclusion

Determining whether a factory fitted or aftermarket CNG kit is right for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If safety, performance, and reliability are top priorities, a factory fitted CNG kit is likely the best option. For those looking for a more cost-effective solution, an aftermarket kit might be suitable, but only if it meets the necessary safety and performance standards.