What to do if you run out of petrol

Many of us are in such a rush to get where we need to go that we might be willing to take risks when our cars are close to running on fumes… How far are you willing to risk driving when low on petrol?

In this article, we will be looking at how safe it is to drive when low on fuel, the dangers this can cause to your car and what to do if you find yourself stuck.

How much petrol is left when the warning light comes on?

If any dashboard symbol lights up, you should get your car checked by a professional. If this is not possible (e.g. if you are driving and the fuel light comes on) stop in a safe place and try to get help.

Most fuel lights will illuminate when you’re running low and then start flashing if you have less than 10% of a tank of petrol left. If this happens, get to the nearest garage asap to top up. If you don’t make it to a petrol station, you could end up stranded and this could cost you a significant amount of money to sort.

Other indications you’re running out of petrol include the car starting to splutter as you drive.

How far can I drive when the petrol light comes on?

This varies depending on make and model of your vehicle, but whocanfixmycar.com suggests the average distance after the initial light comes on is 50 miles. It’s not worth taking the risk though; fill your car up when you feel comfortable. Again, this may be down to the individual.

Does driving on low fuel damage the car?

If you drive your car with a near-empty tank of petrol over a length of time, there could be issues with debris clogging up components including your fuel pump and filter.

Is it illegal to drive with low fuel?

Driving a car low on petrol isn’t illegal but anything that could be considered careless or dangerous driving is. This could result in the following punishments:

• An unlimited fine
• Discretionary disqualification
• 3 to 9 penalty points

You may also receive a penalty if your vehicle causes an obstruction.

What should I do if I run out of petrol?

One of the most important things to do after running out of petrol is to ensure you stay safe.

• As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over and turn on your hazard lights.
• Once parked, you should contact your breakdown service provider or a friend or family member who is able to bring you fuel in a jerry can.
• If you have stopped in a dangerous location or are obstructing traffic, contact the emergency services.
• If you’ve stopped on a motorway, leave the vehicle on the side away from the traffic and walk to a safe place. Stay near the car, but on the other side of the barrier.
• Don’t attempt to walk to a petrol station, especially if on a motorway.

You should also try to avoid restarting the vehicle if you’re out of fuel. This is because it could cause more damage to your engine.

Check your breakdown policy to see if running out of fuel is covered. Some breakdown providers may charge separately to help you get to a petrol station.

Is it bad to let petrol run low?

If your car doesn’t have enough petrol, the engine may be unable to ignite properly, making it a struggle to start. A lack of fuel also affects the power output, potentially leading to poor acceleration. If you stumble every time you start the car, you could cause danger to both yourself and other road users.

Is running out of diesel different to running out of petrol?

Yes, if you run out of petrol while driving on a B road and it is safe to do so, you could potentially walk to the nearest petrol station, top up a jerry can, walk back and fill your car up before driving.

If you’re driving a diesel vehicle, you will need to contact your breakdown provider and wait for them to come out and bleed your system. This is because they operate at a high pressure.

Sources

https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/driving-advice/my-fuel-light-came-on-how-many-miles-can-i-go/

https://www.whocanfixmycar.com/advice/how-far-drive-when-fuel-light-comes-on#

https://www.autoprotect.co.uk/engage/why-you-should-avoid-an-empty-fuel-tank

https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/driving-advice/my-fuel-light-came-on-how-many-miles-can-i-go