Many people will often try and drive their cars as far as they can before stopping to fill up the gas tank. However, there is the question of whether or not it is a good idea to let your gas tank go close to empty before having to fill it up again. Auto experts advise that it is not a good idea to drive until your gas tank is almost empty. Instead, they agree that the minimum that the gas tank should reach is a quarter full. There are many different reasons why you should not try and empty your gas tank as much as possible. Let’s discuss!

Is It Bad to Let Your Car’s Gas Tank Go to Empty?

The Safety of Where You Are Driving

Of course, the obvious reason why you shouldn’t let your gas tank get close to empty is in the case of the car runs out of fuel and you’re not being close to a gas station. Running out of gas can be dangerous depending on where you are driving as you do not want to have to pull over in a dangerous area. Keeping more gas in the tank will save the frustration of having to search around for a gas station and then having to go back and put what little you could carry (if you have some type of container) into the tank.

Risk of Damaging the Fuel Pump

When there is little to no gas in the fuel tank, there is the risk of debris from the bottom of the tank getting into the fuel pump. Debris will find its way into the tank and sit there until the fuel pump sucks up the last of the gas. When this happens, the debris will then get stuck in the pump, and create unwanted and costly damage. Driving from low fuel to an empty tank can also lead to shortening the life span of the fuel pump and will require frequent fixings and/or replacements at your expense. This could also require costly auto repair down the line.

Damage to the Fuel Filter

Similar to the fuel pump, debris from the tank can also find its way into the fuel filter. When the debris enters the fuel filter, it will clog it and affect the flow of gas through to the fuel pump. Build-up over time can lead to the complete restriction of gas that is supposed to flow through.

The Engine Will Misfire

When fuel levels get low, the car’s fuel pump will start to suck in air. The engine consistently needs gas, and the suction of this air will affect this requirement. When this happens, the engine will misfire and affect how the engine runs, which can cause the car to vibrate. Gas also acts as a lubricant throughout part of the engine which keeps it running smooth and avoids the build-up of any debris.

Don’t Run on E

It is okay if the fuel warning light has appeared once or twice, but it is best to avoid letting your car’s gas tank run out of fuel. Always remember to keep your tank at a quarter full to keep the engine running efficiently. Doing so will save you a lot of money and frustration. Driving with low fuel or running on empty gas is a bad idea and can lead to unnecessary damage to your vehicle.

How Modern Vehicles Handle Low Fuel Levels

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced systems like a fuel gauge and fuel warning light to alert drivers when fuel is running low. However, relying too much on these warnings can be risky. For instance, the accuracy of the fuel gauge may vary depending on the car, and waiting for the light to come on before refueling increases the likelihood of running out of gas unexpectedly.

Additionally, running on low fuel can strain the fuel lines, which are essential for delivering gas from the fuel tank to the engine. Over time, this can lead to blockages or damage, requiring costly repairs. While roadside assistance services can help if you run out of fuel, it’s always better to avoid the inconvenience and risk by maintaining an adequate fuel level.

By taking these precautions and staying proactive, you can avoid the pitfalls of driving with low fuel and ensure your vehicle remains in top condition.

Additional Reading: What Happens When Your Car Runs Out of Gas?

Dave & Rays Automotive Repair Shop in Omaha, NE

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