Most of us do it – we drive around with almost no gas in our cars. It can seem like a pain to stop for gas after a long day at the office, so a lot of us will put off this chore until the very last minute. Even though every driving instructor under the sun has explained that driving on empty isn’t a great idea, most drivers have done it at least once. Urb’s Garage in Burlington and Erlanger, KY, takes the time to explain why this is a bad idea, and how we can help if you habitually drive on empty.
Stranded On The Side Of The Road
If you drive on empty, this is the most obvious problem you’re going to have – you’ll eventually run out of gas and end up stranded. At that point, you’ll either need to call a tow truck or strap on your walking shoes. Neither is a particularly appealing option, especially when all you have to do to avoid it is to stop for gas before it is too late.
Your Engine Doesn’t Run Without Gas
When your engine runs, it requires fuel to work with the air and electricity to make things happen. When you run on empty, there is no fuel for the spark plugs to ignite. This can lead to engine misfires in the short term and serious engine damage if you drive on empty too often.
Your Fuel Pump Can Be Damaged
Your car’s fuel pump manages to stay cool because it is in the gasoline itself. When you drive on empty, the fuel pump can heat up without that liquid enveloping it, and this can lead to damage and eventual failure. This won’t happen if you drive on empty once or twice, but repeatedly doing so will definitely kill your fuel pump.
Your Fuel Filter Can Be In Trouble, Too
Your car’s fuel filter works to keep sediment and crud out of your engine. When you drive with low fuel, that sediment can more easily clog up the fuel filter, requiring it to be replaced. An engine clogged with sediment from a malfunctioning fuel filter will still run, but it will cause damage over time.
The pros at Urb’s Garage in Burlington and Erlanger, KY, know that we are all human. Everyone drives on empty every now and then, and it isn’t the end of the world. If you drive on empty often, though, you might want us to take a look at your engine and fuel line before serious damage occurs. Make an appointment today.
