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When the gas light comes on or even when you reach the “E”, most cars can still run as they are designed to leave some fuel for reserve. However, you really should not wait until you hit this point before refueling. It is a bad habit that could take a toll on your engine, but if you ever find yourself in this situation, the general rule of thumb is that you can still drive some more.
That “Empty” Warning Isn’t the End
Most manufacturers say that a good estimate after the gas gauge says empty is about 30 to 50km (approximately 18 to 31 miles) more before you totally won’t be able to drive your car anymore.
However, each car is different and it will vary heavily depending on that, and several more factors like your driving style, and the total load of the car, like passengers and cargo. Most cars will be built this way to give you some time to find a gas station and refuel.
Read more: Autoblog
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Each Car Is Different
Every car is different, and each of them can go fewer or longer miles than the estimate mentioned above. Vehicles like a Toyota Corolla or a Honda Civic might go further than SUVs and Mini Vans, just because they are a sedan that is much lighter and fuel-efficient.
It also depends on your car’s tank size and how much fuel the manufacturers leave in reserve. Different brands design their cars in their own way to keep their identities and customer expectations.
Driving Style Matters Too
Another important factor is your driving style. When you are speeding and accelerating hard, that can burn your fuel faster than normal. Additionally, your use of features inside your car, like air conditioning, radio and sound system, and more.
Studies from the Government of Energy state that hard acceleration and braking, along with speeding, could reduce your fuel economy by up to 40%. So, if you are planning on driving in this way, not that we recommend it, you should take that into account.
Read more: Family Handyman
Don’t Make It a Habit
Even though you can still drive after hitting empty in the gas gauge, and seeing that the fuel light comes on, you should not make it a habit to wait until the very end. Driving on low fuel too often can cause damage to your engine because it might suck in some air or debris into the fuel tank, leading to misfires and other complications.
Most experts suggest putting in fuel at around the quarter mark; that way, you are not driving to the gas station too often to refill a half-full tank, and also not too late to hurt your engine.
Author's Final Thoughts
We know it is good to know that you can still drive even though the gas gauge says it is empty, and your warning lights are on. It gives you a sense of confidence and relief that you won’t immediately be stranded. However, it is best to be more responsible, plan ahead, know your car’s limits, and don’t wait until your engine gets hurt by this habit.
Read more: If Chewing Sounds Drive You Crazy, You Might Have a Real Condition
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