How far can you drive with the fuel light on?
2 Answers
The fuel light indicates you can drive approximately 40-50 kilometers. Below are relevant details: Actual fuel consumption: While vehicle fuel consumption is listed in specifications, actual driving consumption differs from catalog values. An increasing number of vehicles now calculate and display real-time fuel consumption on dashboards, but the "full tank method" remains an alternative way to measure actual consumption without this feature. Regarding model grades: Fuel tank capacity varies by vehicle model and grade. Since tank size is proportional to engine displacement, compact cars and kei cars have smaller tanks while large trucks have significantly larger ones.
The fuel warning light always gives me a panic, even after driving for over a decade and experiencing many close calls. Generally, when the light comes on, there are still 5-10 liters of fuel left in the tank, which can last for 30-80 kilometers, depending on the car's condition and road situation. On highways, maintaining a steady speed can extend the distance further, but that one time in city traffic, I almost stalled after only 20 kilometers. Keeping the fuel level too low for extended periods can damage the fuel pump, as insufficient cooling leads to overheating and failure—repairs can cost thousands. My advice is to refuel as soon as the light flickers; don’t gamble with the remaining distance. Make it a habit to check the fuel gauge—finding a gas station is easier in the city, and filling up before long trips is safer. Don’t neglect regular maintenance either; an aging fuel pump can affect the car’s overall performance.
