Last updated on January 22nd, 2024
There are drivers who fill up their gas tanks and those who push the limit by driving their cars close to empty gas tanks. It’s never a pleasant situation when you run out of gas.
However, it depends on your situation as it can leave you stuck in a remote place. It can affect your schedule and put you in danger. What goes on in the car when the engine runs out of gas?
What happens when the car runs out of gas?
It’s the common belief that when the gas empties, your car screeches to a halt. No, it doesn’t happen that way. Instead, when the car runs out of gas, there are traces of gasoline that keep feeding the system.
Consequently, the car starts showing signs of no gas running through your gas system. For instance, power surges, engine backfires or engine sputtering.
Also, you notice a loss of power, which is an indication that you need to get to safety. Pull over and get to safety quickly. It’s a process that gets worse the hydraulic power to the steering systems and brakes starts failing.
As much as part of the brakes or steering still work, there is a difference. It requires a considerable effort and the electric power steering continues to work from the car battery to give you control and power.
The engine ceases to work when the car runs out of gas. The loss of power causes hydraulic assist helps the brakes and steering run for a while to get you to safety without causing damage to the components.
However, without flowing gas, there can be extensive damage leading to costly repairs.
Running out of gas compromises the fuel delivery system. Most modern vehicles have an electronic fuel pump in their gas tanks. The fuel pump uses the gas to provide proper lubrication and to keep your tank cool.
Without gas, the fuel pump can’t discharge this function. A minimal amount of gas can make the fuel pump fail or overheat. Therefore, the fuel pump is self-destructing.
Running out of gas damages the fuel injector because debris and impurities create sediments that accumulate on the bottom of the gas tank.
A drop in the fuel levels compromises the efficacy of the fuel filter making the impurities pass the fuel lines and clog your fuel injectors.
The car fails to start because the fuel injector or fuel pump is malfunctioning or damaged. When the car runs out of gas, don’t crank the engine or turn on the key immediately.
Refuel first to fill the gas tank then turn on the key without cranking your engine. It helps eliminate air in the fuel lines due to the gas tank operating without gasoline.
Ensure your fuel injectors run optimally to restore power to the engine. otherwise, consult a mechanic.
Actions to take when your car runs out of gas
It’s good to keep the car in good condition to avoid running out of gas. Always pay attention to the gas gauge.
Whenever the gas gauge nears the quarter tank, add gasoline at the nearest filling station. If your car runs out of gas in a remote area remain calm and pull over in a safe place to avoid putting other motorists at risk.
Turn on your hazard lights to warn other motorists to stay clear then call for help.
Contact your roadside assistance or call your nearby friends and family. Take the car for inspection to ensure there is no damage and fix minor problems before they escalate into bigger problems.
What are the symptoms of a car running out of gas?
An empty gas tank causes more than an inconvenience as it can potentially damage the vehicle.
Knowing the symptoms and signs of a car that runs out of gas helps you protect your investment while ensuring you are safe and that your journey continues without a problem.
Gas lights
The gas light indicator on the dashboard warns you of the impending gasoline problem. The light indicates low gasoline levels and lets you know that the car is running on gas reserves.
Gas reserves can take you 25 miles at most as a safety precaution to allow you to get to the nearest gas station.
Some vehicles start sending a warning noise to alert the driver of the low gas levels.
The car fails to start
Your car needs a certain gas level to start or turn on the engine. when the gas tank has insufficient gasoline levels to combust or use the car starter, then your car fails to start or turn on the engine. It’s a precautionary measure to protect the engine.
Remember that when starting the car engine, it uses fuel at a higher rate.
So, the gas tank should have enough fuel to keep the car engine running after starting. A car running on low fuel can burn the fuel pump which makes the car fail to start when low on gas.
Car frequently stalls
Even if you manage to start the car, it still stalls. Once the car has minimal fuel, expect it to start stalling as the engine runs on gas fumes. It can stall immediately after it starts. Sometimes stalling indicates another underlying problem with your car. Check the gas light and the fuel meter to ensure the fuel tank is the problem.
Final Thoughts
Drivers should be careful while on the road and watch out for the gas warning light on the dashboard. The “E” on the dashboard means fuel gauge, running out of gas can result in engine damage. Modern vehicles have parts and pieces that push fuel to the engine.
However, when there is no more fuel, these parts break down quickly. A quick remedy is necessary to prevent major problems that are costly to repair.
Always refuel the car when the fuel gauge drops to a critical level to protect your engine and ensure you drive safely.
Failing to do so can damage your fuel pump and fuel injector which both play a critical role in ensuring the optimal running of the engine.
Fuel injectors can clog when impurities and debris get to the bottom of the gas tank due to low gas levels or no gas. The impurities and debris are pushed past the fuel lines and clog the fuel injector.
Therefore, always refuel your gas tank when the gasoline level is low.
