We all know the familiar feeling of frustration when you’re on your way out the door, running a few minutes late for work, only to find when you start your car that your low fuel warning light has come on. When you’re rushing to work on your morning commute, the last thing you want to do is have to make an extra stop at the gas station and risk being late for the start of your shift, and you might be wondering if you could get to work while your car is on an almost empty tank. While this might seem like a good idea in the moment, keep in mind that by driving your car on empty, even for a few miles, you’re running the risk of some serious vehicle damage, not to mention the risk of ending up stranded with a car that won’t start! So don’t let yourself run low on gas, just make the quick stop and fill up your gas tank!
How Long Can I Drive My Car on Empty?
When your low fuel warning light comes on, it usually doesn’t mean your gas tank is completely empty. You usually have about 30 miles worth of gas left in the tank, which should be enough to get you to the next gas station. And while this might seem like more than enough to get you to work on the highway, or last through the end of your road trip, keep in mind that you actually go through more fuel when accelerating at high speeds, increasing your risk of suddenly breaking down! This is why most experts recommend not letting your car get below a quarter tank of gas.
Your Car Is Meant to Run on Gas
If you frequently drive your car with a low amount of gas in the tank, you’re risking some serious damage. Clogged fuel filters, damaged fuel pumps, and stalling and misfiring of your engine are all things that can happen if you drive without enough fuel. And while it may seem like you’re saving time by skipping a stop at the gas station, engine and fuel system repair will be much more costly and time-consuming!
Don’t Let Yourself Get Stranded!
Don’t let yourself get stranded on the side of the road with an empty tank of gas, make sure you fill up your tank at the gas station, and always make sure you have enough fuel to get you where you need to go!