Your car will lose power, the engine will stall, and you'll coast to a stop. This can be dangerous if you're in traffic and will likely require a call for roadside assistance. The immediate priority is to get your vehicle to a safe location. While running out of gas once is unlikely to cause serious damage to modern fuel-injected engines, it can strain the fuel pump, which relies on gasoline for cooling and lubrication.
The most critical step is getting your car off the road. Turn on your hazard lights immediately. If possible, steer onto the shoulder, a parking lot, or a side street. Never stop in a live traffic lane. Once safe, call for help. Options include a roadside assistance service (like AAA or through your insurance), a friend with a gas can, or a towing service.
To get moving again, you'll need to add fuel. If someone brings you gas, a minimum of one gallon is usually enough to get you to the nearest station. After refueling, you may need to prime the system by turning the key to the "on" position (without starting the engine) for a few seconds, then off, repeating two or three times before attempting to start. This allows the fuel pump to rebuild pressure.
While a single incident may not cause harm, repeatedly running the tank dry can lead to expensive repairs. Sediment from the bottom of the tank can be sucked into the fuel filter and injectors, and the fuel pump can overheat and fail prematurely. A new fuel pump replacement can cost $500 to $1,000+ including parts and labor. The best practice is to refuel when your gauge reads around a quarter tank.
| Potential Consequence | Description | Estimated Cost/Risk |
|---|
| Immediate Stranding | Vehicle becomes immobile, creating a traffic hazard. | Towing: $75-$150; Potential traffic citation. |
| Fuel Pump Stress | Pump overheats without gasoline for cooling/lubrication. | Replacement: $500-$1,000+. |
| Clogged Fuel Filter | Debris from tank bottom can clog the filter. | Replacement: $50-$150. |
| Engine Misfire | Air in fuel lines causes rough operation after refueling. | Usually resolves after driving a short distance. |
| Inconvenience & Time | Waiting for assistance, obtaining fuel. | Significant time loss and stress. |
