Should You Refuel When the Car Has a Quarter Tank of Gas Left?
1 Answers
When there is a quarter tank of fuel remaining, there is still a certain amount of gas left, and it is advisable to refuel at this point. However, it is best to refuel before the low fuel warning light comes on. Many manuals recommend refueling when the fuel gauge needle reaches the quarter mark, primarily to protect the fuel pump. Modern gasoline-powered vehicles use electric fuel pumps and electronic fuel level sensors, which rely on being submerged in gasoline for heat dissipation. If the fuel level is too low, the fuel pump may not be adequately submerged, significantly affecting its cooling efficiency. Inadequate cooling can reduce the fuel pump's lifespan or even cause it to burn out. Additionally, if the fuel tank has not been cleaned for a long time, the accumulation of impurities at the bottom can easily clog the fuel lines when the fuel level is low. A low fuel level also increases the workload of the fuel pump, affecting the cooling of its internal rotor. Moreover, it may impact the oxygen sensor in the exhaust system. Standard Fuel Tank Capacity: The labeled capacity of a fuel tank is not its actual maximum capacity but the maximum reasonable capacity. A standard fuel tank can typically hold 10%–15% more fuel than its labeled capacity. For example, a 60-liter tank can hold up to 75 liters. Automakers specify a 60-liter capacity to account for fuel expansion due to temperature changes, ensuring safe usage by leaving enough space for fuel expansion while maintaining the tank's safety during operation.
