Most cars have a reserve of about 1.5 to 2.5 gallons of gas remaining once the low fuel warning light illuminates. This buffer, often called the fuel light buffer, is designed to give you enough distance to find a gas station safely. The exact amount isn't standardized and varies significantly by make, model, and even the vehicle's driving conditions.
You should treat the low fuel light as a serious warning, not a suggestion to keep driving. Consistently running the fuel level this low can damage your fuel pump, which relies on gasoline for cooling and lubrication.
| Vehicle Type / Common Examples | Typical Reserve After Light On (Gallons) | Estimated Safe Driving Range (Miles)* |
|---|
| Compact Sedan (e.g., Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla) | 1.8 - 2.2 | 45 - 65 |
| Midsize SUV (e.g., Ford Explorer, Honda CR-V) | 2.2 - 2.8 | 35 - 55 |
| Full-Size Truck (e.g., Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado) | 2.5 - 3.5 | 30 - 50 |
| Hybrid Vehicle (e.g., Toyota Prius) | 1.5 - 2.0 | 70 - 90 |
| Average Across All Vehicles | ~ 2.0 | 30 - 50 |
*Range varies drastically based on driving style, terrain, and load.
To find the precise reserve for your car, the most reliable source is your owner's manual. Some models even display the "miles to empty" on the dashboard, which can be helpful, but it's a conservative estimate. The best practice is to refuel as soon as possible after the light comes on to avoid potential damage and the stress of running out of gas.
