Most of us have been in the position where our fuel runs out, and we have to keep driving on reserve fuel. This condition can be really frustrating as suddenly our priority switches from reaching the destination to finding the nearest fuel station to refill the tank. However, this risk-free situation may be wasting your money in several ways.
Its human nature to delay things and the same happens when it comes to refilling your fuel tank. You want to use up the entire fuel and then refill it back. Remember, when your low fuel light turns on, it indicates that you are close to running out of gas.
The fuel left in the tank and the time you have before you run out of fuel depends on a number of factors, including:
- Your vehicle's fuel economy
- Your speed
- Your location (highway or city streets)
So, here's why it is never a good idea to drive your car on reserve fuel:
It damages your car, severely
Running out of fuel can lead to several problems while damaging your vehicle dangerously. For example, if your car runs out of petrol, the fuel pump can suck in the pollutant/dirt from the bottom of the tank, thereby clogging the fuel pump and forcing an expensive alternative.
Fuel gauges are not exact
The quantity of fuel your gauge shows may not be the real amount left in the tank. Fuel gauges are measured by a float, which changes based on whether or not you're on a hill.
Most drivers don't realise it's an issue
The real problem seems to be the knowledge and experience of the driver. Usually, people who are under the age of 35 run out of fuel as they do not have the proper experience and cannot estimate the right amount of fuel left.
Modern cars are actually worse
Technology has made things better! Undoubtedly, the statement is correct; however, it can be not totally right when it comes to motor vehicles. Modern cars are very sensitive and have a shorter tolerance for problems like driving the car on the reserve fuel. Even though the performance of these vehicles is fantastic, but they are more likely to get damaged when they run out of fuel.
Running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere can be a difficult situation, especially at night. Imagine you get stuck on a highway in the middle of the night, and you have no one to call to. This can be the case most of the times, but not when you have a
car insurance policy by your side. A car insurance policy offers roadside assistance that includes services like emergency fuel assistance etc. However, you should check the terms and conditions of the car insurance policy you own. You can easily buy car insurance online, without any paperwork.
