How Many Kilometers Can a Car Travel When the Fuel Gauge Shows Empty?
2 Answers
When the fuel gauge shows empty, a car can typically travel 30-40 kilometers. When the fuel warning light comes on, there are usually 5-10 liters of fuel left in the tank, though this may vary slightly depending on engine displacement, tank size, and vehicle model. How to Read a Car Fuel Gauge: Generally, the fuel gauge has two English letters: 'E' stands for empty, and 'F' stands for full. Inside the fuel gauge, there are two coils located on the 'F' and 'E' sides, respectively. The sensor is a variable resistor controlled by the float height. The change in resistance determines the magnetic field strength of the two coils, which in turn determines the direction of the needle's deflection. Refueling Precautions: While driving, always pay attention to the fuel gauge. When the needle indicates that only a quarter of the fuel remains, it's time to refuel. It's best not to wait until the fuel warning light comes on before refueling. Modern cars use electric fuel pumps that rely on gasoline for lubrication and cooling. Frequently waiting until the fuel light comes on to refuel can prevent the fuel pump from receiving adequate lubrication and cooling, ultimately shortening its lifespan. Additionally, if the tank remains empty for too long, the temperature difference between the inside and outside can cause moisture to form inside the tank, leading to corrosion, compromised fuel quality, and increased engine strain.
When the fuel gauge shows empty, there's actually a small reserve of fuel left in the car. Based on my driving experience, most vehicles can still travel about 40 to 80 kilometers, depending on the model and driving conditions. For example, once when I was driving my own car with the fuel gauge on empty, I managed to drive over 50 kilometers to reach a gas station—fortunately, it was within the city. However, don't rely on this too often. The fuel gauge is designed with a buffer to prevent the engine from stalling as soon as it's empty, but prolonged use can cause the fuel pump to overheat and fail, leading to costly and troublesome repairs. It's best to refuel as soon as the level gets low, forming a good habit. Don't wait for the warning light to come on—acting sooner is safer and better for your car.
