We’ve all driven our vehicle until that gas light turns on. Whether it was freezing outside and we really didn’t want to have to stand outside and pump the gas, or money was tight and we just needed to make the fuel last as long as possible, we’ve all tried to stretch our empty fuel tank. Most vehicles can run for quite a few miles after the low fuel light comes on, but should we be pushing the limits? Check out these reasons why you should never drive your car on a nearly empty tank.

Why Low Fuel Is Bad For Your Car

When your fuel light comes on, it means that your vehicle has between 10%-15% of the fuel left, and that it is running on its reserves. Sure, that might mean that your fuel efficient little car has quite a few miles left in it, but it’s not worth running the risk of letting your fuel run dry. There’s more at stake than your ego when you’re standing on the side of the highway waiting for rescue.

Your fuel pump works while your car is running to send your gas to your engine, and the fuel in the tank helps to keep the pump cool and lubricated. Without fuel in your tank to keep the pump cool, you run the risk of it overheating and eventually failing. Not only is it an expensive part to replace, prior to the failure, your car will be running less efficiently and wasting the fuel in your tank even when it’s full.

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Another risk of driving with a low fuel tank is loading up your fuel filter with gunk from the bottom of the tank. Any debris or sediment will settle at the bottom, and when your fuel levels are low, that’s where the pump will be pulling from. For these reasons, and to save yourself the embarrassment of standing on the side of the road waiting for a tow or for a friend to bring you some fuel, you should try to remember to fill your gas tank when it reaches a quarter tank.

Fuel Tank Issues Service Racine WI

If you are worried that your fuel pump is on its way out, or that your filter is clogged with debris from inside your gas tank, give us a call or schedule a service appointment online. The friendly and experienced team at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Racine would love to get your car in ship shape, and help keep your fuel economy at its highest possible level.