How Far Can You Drive When the Fuel Gauge Reaches the Red Line?
2 Answers
When the fuel gauge needle reaches the red line, there is approximately 10% of fuel left in the car's tank, allowing an average driving range of 20-60 kilometers. Here are some important notes about refueling your car: 1. Do not wait until the warning light comes on to refuel: The fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank and relies on gasoline for cooling and lubrication. Insufficient fuel can impair the pump's normal operation and shorten its lifespan. 2. It is not recommended to fill the tank completely: Gasoline expands when heated and evaporates into vapor under high summer temperatures, requiring space to accommodate these changes. If the tank is filled to the brim without any space, gasoline vapor or even liquid gasoline may enter the carbon canister for storage. Once the carbon canister is full, the excess will escape into the air, leading to both waste and environmental pollution. 3. Gauge deviation: After routine battery replacement, fuel filter changes, or even after the car has been parked overnight, you might notice that the fuel gauge needle is lower than its previous position upon restarting the vehicle, leading you to suspect a malfunction. However, this is a normal phenomenon. When the fuel pump operates, a negative pressure forms inside the fuel tank, reducing the tank's volume and causing the fuel level to appear higher. Additionally, the thermal expansion of gasoline due to temperature changes naturally shows a higher reading. When the temperature drops or the fuel tank is opened, the pressure is released, and the fuel level decreases accordingly. Therefore, such display deviations are normal.
When the fuel gauge hits the red line, based on my years of driving experience, it usually indicates very low fuel, roughly enough to travel about 40 to 50 kilometers. However, this varies depending on the car's size and fuel consumption. For example, my old sedan has a 50-liter fuel tank, and when it reaches the red line, there's about 5 liters left. With a fuel consumption of 8 liters per 100 kilometers, it could theoretically last 60 kilometers, but in reality, it might be shorter due to higher fuel consumption on uphill roads or in traffic jams. I advise against taking chances. Last time I did this, I got stuck on the highway and had to pay over 300 yuan for towing, which was totally not worth it. The fuel pump is prone to overheating and damage when the fuel level is low, and repairs can be even more expensive. It's best to look for a gas station when the fuel gauge shows half or a quarter full—it's more convenient, hassle-free, and safer. Developing a habit of regular maintenance can also help avoid such issues.