How Far Can You Drive When the Fuel Gauge Light Comes On?
2 Answers
When the fuel gauge light comes on, you can typically drive about thirty to fifty kilometers. The fuel gauge is designed to display the amount of fuel in the car's tank. It consists of a fuel indicator with a voltage regulator and a fuel level sensor. The low fuel warning system activates when the fuel level in the tank falls below a specified limit, alerting the driver immediately. Important notes regarding the fuel gauge include: 1. Avoid waiting until the warning light comes on to refuel, as running on very low fuel can harm the fuel pump and shorten its lifespan; 2. Indication discrepancies may occur. For instance, after replacing the battery or fuel filter, the fuel gauge might show a lower level than before upon restarting the car. This is due to pressure release when the fuel tank is opened, causing the fuel level to drop, and such display variations are normal.
I've been driving for over a decade, and the fuel gauge warning light really depends on the situation. My old Tiguan's manual states there's 8 liters left when the light comes on, but in reality, I've pushed it to 90 kilometers at most. Actually, manufacturers all have reserve fuel - most cars can last 50-100km after the warning. But I strongly advise finding a gas station immediately. That time I stubbornly kept driving on the highway after the light came on, the fuel pump burned out and cost me over 2,000 yuan to fix. With current high fuel prices, it's best not to let the tank drop below a quarter - running on empty also stirs up sediment. Remember: in winter you'll get 15km less range than summer, AC cuts mileage further, and city driving gives about one-third less range than highways!
