We’ve all been there - happily driving along, maybe even singing along to the radio, when suddenly DING, the low fuel warning light appears. Some drivers see it as the signal to plot the quickest route to the nearest petrol station. Others choose to ignore it, pushing their car to the limit in the hope of squeezing out every last drop. But driving on empty tank isn’t just stressful - it can cause serious damage to your vehicle and even put you in danger. Here’s why ignoring that warning light is never a good idea.

Dangers of Driving on Empty Tank

1. Wearing out the fuel pump

The fuel pump relies on the fuel in the tank to keep it cool and lubricated as it flows around it. Running the car with a low tank means that the pump does not get the same level of lubrication as it normally would. If you drive while being low on fuel consistently, it is at risk of overheating which can lead to the premature failure of the fuel pump.

2. Dirty Fuel Filter

Your fuel pump also has a fuel filter, which can quickly get dirty if you drive with a low tank. As the petrol level gets low you’ll start picking up debris from the bottom of the tank, which could result in the fuel filter getting blocked or could take in dirty fuel. This could also force a costly replacement to both the fuel filter and the pump.

3. Danger, danger!

Your vehicle won’t go anywhere if it doesn’t have any fuel in it. The consequences of running out of fuel can be very dangerous, especially if it happens on a busy road or motorway, as you would experience a sudden loss of power to your engine. Your engine would cut out and you would lose your power steering and power brakes making controlling your vehicle very difficult.

4. Fuel gauges are not exact

Fuel gauges are not always very accurate, and can give you a misleading view of how much you have left in the tank. It’s better to get into the habit of thinking of the low-fuel light as a final warning, rather than driving around with it on. It’s also important to be aware that speed affects the amount of fuel that your car is using. Plus, the capacity of the reserve tank can vary between different car models, so it’s important not to rely on this.

5. Stress!

The road can be an anxious and stressful place and matters can be made worse if you start to panic because you are low on fuel. Driving in this state of heightened tension could lead to an accident so make sure you have some peace of mind by ensuring you have at least half a tank of fuel in your car.

6. Higher Repair Costs

Running on an empty tank may save you a few euro at the pump, but the long-term damage to your fuel system, pump, or filter can lead to expensive repairs. Prevention is far cheaper than paying for replacements.

7. Environmental Impact

Driving on low fuel can lead to incomplete combustion, producing higher emissions and contributing to air pollution - another reason to keep your tank topped up.

8. Inconvenience & Delays

Breaking down because of no fuel could mean being late for work, missing an appointment, or being stranded somewhere unsafe until help arrives.

Stay Protected with Breakdown Cover and Car Insurance

Even the most careful drivers can get caught out by running low on fuel. If you do happen to run out, breakdown cover ensures you’ll never be left stranded by the roadside in Ireland. With a Premier Plus car insurance policy from a company like its4women, you’ll have breakdown assistance to keep you moving - whether it’s a flat battery on a cold morning, a tyre change, or running out of fuel on a busy road.

Our lines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (including bank holidays). Call from the Republic of Ireland on 01 804 4328 or from the United Kingdom on 028 904 85219 and help will be on the way.

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