Should I Refuel When There Are Still 100 Kilometers Left to Run?
3 Answers
Generally, when there are 100 kilometers left, it's time to refuel. For most family cars, the fuel gauge warning light on the dashboard will illuminate when the remaining fuel mileage is between 100-150 kilometers. To avoid affecting usage, it's best to refuel at this point. Below are some precautions regarding the use of the car fuel gauge: Pointer deviation: When the fuel pump is working, negative pressure forms inside the fuel tank, reducing the tank's volume and causing the fuel level to appear higher. Additionally, the thermal expansion effect of gasoline due to temperature can naturally make the reading appear higher. When the temperature drops and the fuel tank is opened, the pressure is released, causing the fuel level to drop accordingly. Therefore, such display deviations are normal. However, the deviation generally does not exceed the width of one pointer. Avoid continuing to drive after the warning light comes on: When the warning light illuminates, it indicates that the fuel level is too low. Continuing to drive at this point can be harmful because the fuel pump, located inside the tank, generates a significant amount of heat during operation. Fuel acts as its coolant, ensuring the pump operates normally through continuous cooling. Without the cooling effect of fuel, prolonged operation of the fuel pump will inevitably lead to burnout. Refuel promptly after the warning light comes on: It is crucial to refuel immediately once the warning light turns on. Since the fuel pump is inside the tank and relies on gasoline for heat dissipation and lubrication, insufficient fuel can hinder its normal operation and reduce its service life.
Last time I drove my old Accord, the fuel gauge light came on showing 80 km left, but I barely made it to the gas station with only 30 km remaining. Experience taught me the fuel gauge estimate has delays: 1. On downhill sections, the computer calculates range based on instant fuel consumption, giving overly optimistic readings; 2. Older cars may have sticky fuel level floats causing inaccurate displays; 3. Pay special attention as the AC compressor consumes significant fuel. I recommend refueling when the gauge shows 100 km remaining, especially on highways. My habit is to refuel when the tank drops below one-quarter—this protects the fuel pump's cooling and prevents sudden anxiety during unexpected traffic jams. Just two days ago, news reported someone stranded on an expressway after trusting the range display!
A veteran Didi driver with 10 years of experience tells you: When your city driving range shows 100 km left, you can actually squeeze out 30-40 km more. But consider three variables—if you're running the heater in winter, fuel consumption increases by 15%; with five passengers and AC on, your range drops by 20%; traffic jams make it even riskier. Once I headed to the airport with 120 km range showing and didn't refuel—ended up in a massive jam on the airport expressway, sweating bullets with AC off, hands shaking when finally reaching the gas station. Lesson learned: I now refuel at 150 km remaining. Better safe than sorry—frequent refueling beats calling a tow truck mid-journey any day.
