At what fuel level should you refuel?
3 Answers
It is best to refuel when the fuel level drops to 1/4. Specific explanations are as follows: 1. If there is too much remaining fuel, gasoline may overflow during refueling, and if accidentally exposed to a spark, it could trigger a severe fire. Overfilling the tank can also harm the car, such as increasing the vehicle's load. Do not wait until the tank is empty to refuel, as this may damage the fuel pump cooling system. Refuel when the fuel level reaches 1/4, but do not fill beyond 3/4 of the tank's capacity. 2. Different cars have varying fuel warning levels; some trigger an alert when the remaining range is 100 km, while others do so at 150 km. Therefore, it is essential to know your car's fuel warning range and refuel promptly. During long-distance driving, plan your refueling stops according to your itinerary.
With over 20 years of driving experience, I recommend refueling when the tank level drops below a quarter. When fuel is too low, the fuel pump may not receive adequate cooling, making it prone to overheating and costly repairs. More seriously, running out of gas on highways or remote roads can be dangerous. I once waited until only one bar of fuel remained and nearly stalled in traffic, forcing me to call a tow truck. Don't try to save a few kilometers—refueling early prevents emergencies and ensures smoother engine operation. Make it a habit to check the fuel gauge and look for gas stations when a quarter tank remains, especially during rain, snow, or long trips.
From a cost-saving perspective, I usually refuel when the fuel level drops below 20%. Running on empty not only carries risks but also wastes more fuel due to decreased engine efficiency. When the fuel tank is too low, sediment at the bottom can clog the filter, requiring cleaning or replacement. Through several experiments, I found that driving with only 1/8 tank remaining increases fuel consumption, making it uneconomical overall. I recommend checking the fuel level weekly and refueling when it falls below a quarter tank—it's both economical and reassuring. Don't wait until the warning light comes on; that's already an alert point. The sooner you refuel, the better.
