We’re all familiar with the driving scenario where the fuel light comes on and there isn’t a petrol station for miles. Most often, we make it to the fuel stop in time, but should we even let our vehicle get this close to empty in the first place?
Experts suggest you should keep your tank at least a quarter full at all times. Doing this will help you avoid getting into a dangerous situation, like running out of gas on a busy road. But did you know that driving on a near-empty tank can also damage your car?
How long can you drive on empty?
When your petrol tank is running close to empty, this will trigger the familiar warning light to let you know it’s time to fill up. Ideally, don’t let your car get to this point but, if you do, try and get to a petrol station as soon as possible.
How many kilometres you have left before completely running out of fuel depends on your vehicle and your driving style. To find out the reserve distance for your car, look in your owner’s manual.
Many modern cars have an electronic display showing how many kilometres you can drive before running out completely. Remember though that this number is an estimate, so it’s not 100% accurate. Activities like sitting in traffic, driving at high speeds, or driving up steep hills can all affect the actual number.
What damage does driving on empty do to my vehicle?
The fuel tank of your vehicle holds petrol or diesel and feeds it to your engine through the fuel lines. This is clearly a vital part of your vehicle’s overall fuel system. Letting your fuel level fall to reserve regularly could cause issues with your fuel pump. In modern vehicles, the fuel pump is located within the engine, where the fuel helps keep it cool and lubricated.
Most fuel pumps last as long as your vehicle does but, when the fuel level falls very low, it’s possible for your fuel pump to start taking in air, which generates more heat. This overheating can cause your fuel pump to wear out faster than normal or – worst case scenario – can cause it to fail completely.
This will likely feel like your engine has had a loss of power, or there’s hesitation, or vibration. Replacing your fuel pump is a labour-intensive job, which can cost a lot of money.
Your fuel filter can also be affected if your tank sits on empty regularly. As its name suggests, the fuel filter filters the fuel before it gets to the engine. It’s located between the engine and the fuel pump and it helps catch any particles before they get to your fuel pump.
When you run low on gas, the likelihood of sediments getting drawn into your fuel pump increases. This can clog the fuel filter, which will slow down the flow of petrol to your engine.
What to do if your car runs out of petrol
Pull over. You should turn on your hazard lights and pull to the side of the road or an even safer location, if possible. If you know you won’t make it to a petrol station, look for somewhere safe to stop before you completely run out of gas.
Call for help. You should call a friend, family member, or emergency roadside service provider for help. If this isn’t an option, try calling a tow company, or the traffic non-emergency number *555. This number is to report road incidents which are urgent but not life-threatening like non-injury crashes, traffic congestion, breakdowns, and obstructions on the highway.
Enjoy peace of mind
While standard vehicle insurance might cover theft and damage from accidents, Autolife’s Mechanical Repair Insurance covers breakdowns, mechanical faults and repairs, and extra services, such as 24-hour Roadside Assistance and towing. The cover applies to new and used vehicles and provides peace of mind that you’re covered for unexpected mechanical needs.
Contact us today to see how our Mechanical Repair Insurance can help you.