What to Do When a Diesel Vehicle Runs Out of Fuel
2 Answers
When refueling a diesel engine, pay attention to the venting points. The newly added fuel must fill the entire fuel supply line using a priming tube or pump. Below are the precautions for refueling a diesel vehicle: 1. Specific method: Unscrew the cap of the fuel inlet filter, guide the fuel here, and when fuel overflows from this point, tighten the filter. Open the cap of the high-pressure fuel pump, use a screwdriver to pump fuel several times under the plunger seat of each fuel pump until a clear pumping sound is heard in the cylinder. Each cylinder's fuel pump must be pumped. If everything remains unchanged, the engine should start. Check if the throttle linkage is loose, if the idle speed has changed, and if the battery has sufficient power. 2. Multi-cylinder engine: After refueling, there is no fuel in the section from the fuel tank to the fuel bowl. The solution for multi-cylinder vehicles is to first locate the fuel filter, loosen the vent screw connected to the fuel bowl with a wrench (one turn is sufficient), and manually pump fuel until a strong jet forms at the fuel pipe screw, then tighten the screw to start the engine. 3. Single-cylinder engine: For a single-cylinder engine, also locate the filter, loosen the corresponding screw on the main fuel line with a wrench until fuel flows out, then tighten the screw to start the engine.
If my diesel car runs out of fuel halfway, I know it can be quite stressful. The first step is not to panic—quickly pull over to a safe spot, turn on the hazard lights, and set up the warning triangle. Confirm whether you’re truly out of fuel by checking the fuel gauge or listening to the engine sound. If you’re out of fuel, walk to a nearby gas station if possible to buy a can of diesel and refill; otherwise, call a friend to bring fuel or contact a towing service. Don’t be surprised if the car doesn’t start after refueling—diesel systems are prone to air ingress and require bleeding: pop the hood, locate the fuel pump’s bleed screw, loosen it, and have someone press the accelerator for a few seconds to expel air. Once fuel sprays normally, tighten the screw and start the engine. If you can’t handle it yourself, seek professional help immediately—safety first. Next time, remember: diesel cars are more prone to this issue than gasoline cars, so refuel when the tank is one-third full to prevent problems proactively.
