Does running out of fuel and stalling the car have any impact on the vehicle?
3 Answers
Running out of fuel and stalling has minimal impact on the car, but it's not advisable to do this frequently. Here's relevant information: 1. Overview: The fuel system's function is to supply the engine with a specific quantity of clean, well-atomized gasoline according to its operating conditions, allowing it to mix with air and form a combustible mixture. Additionally, the fuel system needs to store a considerable amount of gasoline to ensure the vehicle has a substantial driving range. 2. Classification: The fuel system also includes electronically controlled gasoline injection systems, fuel supply systems (including auxiliary devices such as fuel tanks, fuel filters, fuel pumps, oil-gas separators, fuel lines, and fuel gauges).
I've had multiple experiences of running out of gas while driving, and it's truly unpleasant. Once on the highway, I pushed it for 20 kilometers after the fuel light came on, and the engine suddenly stopped, causing the car to shake violently and come to a halt, nearly getting hit by the car behind. I had to call a tow truck to get to a gas station, and after refueling, the car was hard to start—it took five or six attempts with a sputtering sound before it finally turned over. The repair shop checked it and said the fuel pump was slightly damaged from overheating and was close to burning out the coil, costing over 800 yuan to replace. Additionally, an empty tank can introduce air bubbles into the fuel line, causing the starter to work overtime during ignition and excessively draining the battery, shortening its lifespan. The engine also has to pump out the air, leading to a few seconds of dry friction that can damage the crankshaft and bearings. Safety-wise, if the car stalls on a slope or a curve, the steering wheel becomes heavy, the brakes stiffen, and the risk of losing control is high. Since then, I make it a habit to refuel when the gauge drops to a quarter—saving a little money isn't worth the potential disaster. Developing good habits ensures both driving safety and economy.
Running out of fuel and stalling may sound simple, but it carries significant hidden risks. The key issue lies in the fuel pump's reliance on gasoline for cooling—when the tank is empty, it loses protection. During high-speed operation, temperatures can spike rapidly, potentially damaging internal components. Replacing a fuel pump requires tank removal, costing anywhere from hundreds to over a thousand dollars. Additionally, air entering the fuel system means the engine must work harder to purge bubbles after refueling, increasing startup difficulty and placing extra strain on the starter and battery. Frequent occurrences accelerate wear and degrade performance. While the engine itself isn't immediately harmed, the sudden stall creates traffic hazards: a motionless vehicle on highways risks rear-end collisions, while remote areas may leave drivers stranded. Experts recommend maintaining at least a quarter-tank reserve. Simple prevention includes regularly checking fuel gauges or using refill reminder apps to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
