
The 'E' on the Corolla fuel gauge indicates low fuel, while 'F' indicates a full tank. The fuel gauge is used to display the amount of fuel remaining in the vehicle's fuel tank, which can be either a needle-type or digital display. The fuel gauge consists of a fuel level indicator with a voltage regulator and a fuel level sensor. The fuel gauge cannot accurately reflect the exact fuel level: It is not possible to determine the precise fuel level solely based on the fuel gauge on the car's dashboard. The gauge provides a qualitative indication rather than a quantitative measurement of the fuel remaining in the tank. Additionally, fuel consumption cannot be accurately judged by the relationship between the amount of fuel added and the distance traveled, as factors such as road conditions, speed, traffic congestion, use of air conditioning, vehicle load, fuel leaks, and fuel quality can all directly affect fuel consumption. The labeled capacity is a safe volume: Most fuel tanks are labeled with a safe capacity, which is generally about 10% less than the actual capacity. During the design of the fuel tank, the thermal expansion and contraction characteristics of fuel are taken into account. To ensure driving safety, a certain amount of space must be left in the tank after filling to the rated volume to prevent excessive internal pressure. Overfilling can damage the carbon canister, while underfilling leaves too much empty space in the tank, leading to fuel evaporation and loss as vapor. Therefore, it is recommended to stop filling when the pump automatically stops (known as 'clicking off').

Having driven a Corolla for several years, I'm all too familiar with the 'E' symbol on the fuel gauge—it stands for Empty, signaling that your tank is nearly dry. Typically, when the 'E' appears, the car can still manage an emergency run of about 40-50 kilometers, but don't push your luck. I once got stuck in highway traffic, ignoring this warning, and nearly ended up stranded. In family cars like the Corolla, running on empty can cause the fuel pump to overheat, and long-term damage from this habit can cost far more in repairs than the price of a fill-up. I've made it a habit to refuel when the gauge hits the quarter mark, protecting the fuel pump and avoiding emergencies. It's also wise to regularly check the fuel gauge during city driving and keep a collapsible fuel can in the trunk for extra security.

The 'E' on the Corolla's fuel gauge indicates an empty tank, serving as a clear warning signal. Each time the needle drops to the E line, it means the remaining fuel is below the safe level, usually accompanied by a yellow fuel warning light on the dashboard. Although there might still be about 7-8 liters of fuel left in the tank—enough to reach the nearest gas station—running the fuel pump dry can cause overheating and damage. Based on my own tests, a Corolla can typically drive about 40 kilometers after the fuel light comes on, though this distance may vary depending on air conditioning usage and road conditions. Remember, refueling when the tank is a quarter full is the most scientific approach—it prevents fuel pump damage without wasting time. It's also advisable to download a fuel app to easily locate nearby gas stations.

Novice drivers might panic when they see the Corolla's fuel gauge hit E, but it's simply a reminder to refuel. 'Empty' is short for the fuel level hitting rock bottom, and you should find a gas station immediately. When I was learning to drive, my instructor emphasized that the fuel pump relies on gasoline for cooling, and running on an empty tank can easily cause damage. After the Corolla's E light comes on, there are still about five to six liters of fuel left in the tank—not enough to reach the next city but sufficient to get to a gas station in town. I remember once forgetting to refuel during a countryside trip, barely making it to a highway service area on the last drops of fuel. Now, I set a phone reminder to refuel when two bars remain on the gauge—it’s the most worry-free approach and helps extend my beloved car's lifespan.


