Running out of fuel is one of those situations that nearly every driver dreads. Whether you’re on a long road trip, commuting through the city, or heading out for a weekend adventure, the thought of being stranded without fuel can create a sense of panic. But what happens when your car’s fuel gauge reads empty? 

Can you still drive to the nearest gas station, or are you headed for trouble? Understanding how much fuel is really left in your tank after it hits “empty” and knowing how long you can drive on reserve fuel is crucial for any driver. 

In this article, we’ll explore what happens when you run out of fuel, how long you can rely on your car’s reserve fuel, and whether pushing your vehicle to the limit could cause costly damage. Let’s dive in and answer these common questions that every driver should know.

Understanding the Fuel System: Can You Drive Without Fuel?

It’s important to understand how a car’s fuel system works. Modern cars use a fuel pump to move gas from the tank to the engine. When the fuel gauge shows “empty,” the tank is nearly empty, but many newer cars have a reserve system that lets you use the remaining fuel after the gauge reads empty. 

This reserve fuel can help you reach a gas station before the car runs completely out of fuel. How far you can go on reserve fuel depends on the car’s make and model. While you can drive for a short distance on “empty,” it’s not recommended for several reasons, which we will discuss later.

How Long Can I Drive on Reserve?

The reserve fuel in a car typically allows for driving between 30 to 50 kilometers after the fuel gauge reads “empty.” However, this is only an approximation and can vary based on several factors. For diesel vehicles, the reserve range may differ, as diesel engines are generally more fuel-efficient. 

If the vehicle uses AdBlue and the fluid runs out, some models may operate in a limited performance mode or may not start at all until AdBlue is refilled. Therefore, it is essential to regularly check and refill both fuel and AdBlue as needed.

Car Model and Fuel Tank Size

Different car models have different-sized fuel tanks and reserve fuel capacities. Some vehicles have a larger reserve capacity, meaning you can drive a bit farther after the fuel gauge reads empty. Others have a smaller reserve tank, which means you won’t be able to travel very far.

Driving Condition

If you’re driving on highways with consistent speeds, your car will likely use less fuel and may last longer on reserve. However, if you’re driving in the city with frequent stops and starts, your car will use fuel more quickly, and you may run out of reserve fuel sooner.

Driving Habits

Aggressive driving, such as fast acceleration, harsh braking, or high speeds, will consume fuel more quickly. If you maintain a moderate driving speed and avoid rapid acceleration, you may be able to extend the range of your reserve fuel.

Car’s Age and Maintenance

Older cars or vehicles with less-efficient fuel systems may have smaller or less reliable reserve tanks. Regular maintenance of your car, including the fuel system, can ensure that you get the most out of the fuel left in the tank.

Will It Cause Damage to the Car?

Running out of fuel and driving on reserve can cause long-term damage to your car. While the reserve tank is designed to provide a bit of leeway, it is not meant to be used regularly. Here’s why driving on empty or with minimal fuel can hurt your car:

Damage to the Fuel Pump

The fuel pump in your vehicle is responsible for moving fuel from the tank to the engine. When the tank is nearly empty, the fuel pump has to work harder to pull fuel from the very bottom of the tank, where dirt and debris can accumulate. This can cause the fuel pump to wear out prematurely.

Moreover, when the fuel tank is low or empty, the fuel pump may start pulling in air. This causes the pump to overheat and may eventually lead to a complete failure. Replacing a fuel pump can be an expensive repair, often costing several hundred dollars.

Contaminants in the Fuel Tank

When your car runs low on fuel, it can stir up sediment and debris that may have settled at the bottom of the tank. This debris can enter the fuel pump and clog the fuel filter. Over time, this can cause the fuel system to become clogged, leading to poor engine performance or even engine failure.

Overheating the Fuel System

Running your car on empty can result in the fuel system overheating. Since gasoline has cooling properties, it keeps the fuel pump cool and lubricated as it circulates through the system. When you run low on fuel, the fuel pump can overheat, leading to potential damage to the system.

Poor Fuel Efficiency

If you’re always running your car on low fuel, your car’s fuel efficiency can decrease over time. This is because the engine may be running less efficiently due to poor fuel delivery. With consistent low fuel levels, your car may start to burn fuel in a less optimal manner, reducing overall fuel efficiency.

Potential Engine Damage

While it’s unlikely that a single incident of running out of gas will immediately cause catastrophic damage, repeated instances of running on empty can cause the engine to work harder. Over time, this added strain on the engine can lead to internal wear and tear, reducing the vehicle’s overall lifespan.

How to Avoid Running Out of Fuel

The best way to avoid running out of fuel and the potential damage it can cause is simple: keep your tank at least a quarter full. Here are a few other tips to help avoid running on empty:

Pay attention to your fuel gauge

If you notice that your fuel level is getting low, stop at a gas station before the needle hits empty.

Know your car’s reserve fuel capacity

Understanding how far your vehicle can go on reserve fuel can help you plan ahead and avoid getting stranded.

Keep a spare fuel can in the car

In case of an emergency, it’s a good idea to have a small fuel container in your car to ensure you can make it to a gas station if you run low.

Plan your route

If you’re driving through rural or remote areas, make sure you have enough fuel to reach the nearest station.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is technically possible to drive a car after the fuel gauge reads empty, it is not recommended and can cause significant damage to your vehicle over time. 

Running out of fuel can strain your car’s fuel system, damage the fuel pump, and reduce the lifespan of the engine. Most vehicles have a reserve fuel system, which gives you a short distance to find a gas station, but driving on empty should only be done in emergencies.

To ensure the longevity of your car and to avoid expensive repairs, always keep an eye on your fuel gauge and fill up before your tank reaches empty. Taking simple precautions can save you a lot of trouble and prevent the risks associated with running out of fuel.