How many of you have experienced the next scenario? You set out on an important trip, leaving just enough time to get there, and then that annoying “low fuel” message appears on the dashboard. Now you have to find the nearest gas station, which may or may not be so close. And depending on your truck model, once that “low fuel” message is up, you may have only as little as 30 miles of driving left before you run out of gas. Now, you’re stressed, worried, annoyed, possibly late, and possibly in danger of being stranded. Not cool!
Additionally, if you often drive with low fuel levels, you are doing great damage to your truck. Experts say that you should keep your gas tank at least a quarter full at all times. Here’s why.
4 Ways Low Fuel Levels Can Damage Your Truck
1. Catalytic Converter Damage
You won’t get very far driving on empty, but in the moments before you do stall out, your car’s catalytic converter, which is part of the exhaust system, can be damaged. These exhaust-cleaning devices, with their precious metals, are sensitive and expensive to replace.
2. Water In The Tank
You may have some water at the bottom of your vehicle’s fuel tank, either from condensation in the tank or at the gas station’s storage tanks. Under normal conditions this isn’t a problem. However, if there’s a lot of water AND low fuel levels, the water can enter the fuel lines and engine, resulting in poor engine performance. Additionally, if temperatures fall below freezing, the water can freeze, and your truck won’t run at all.
3. Debris Can Damage Your Fuel Pump
If you consistently drive with low fuel levels, the contaminants that build up in the gas tank over time can enter and damage the fuel pump. The debris can also clog the fuel filter. Additionally, in some vehicles, the fuel pump is located in the gas tank, and the gas acts like insulation and lubricant flowing around the pump. When you run your gas tank dry, the fuel pump could overheat, and over time this can cause it to wear out prematurely.
4. Is Diesel Different?
Running low or out of fuel with a diesel fuel system is even more troublesome. That’s because you’ll also get air trapped in the fuel delivery system. Due to the high pressures associated with diesel fuel injection, running the fuel pump and lines dry can cause expensive damage to both the diesel injection pump and the diesel injectors. Afterwards, all traces of air must be removed from the fuel system, otherwise poor running, stalling and other issues can arise.
In order to prevent these issues, try to get into the habit of filling up your truck way before the annoying “low gas” alert appears on your dashboard. Ideally, aim to refuel once the needle approaches the ¼ mark on the fuel gauge.
Our technicians at Continental Truck Services are always here for you. We are highly skilled and certified to quickly and effectively fix any problem and address any need. We provide the best truck repair services at the fastest possible times. We are located at 9640 SIDNEY HAYES RD, Orlando, FL 32824, United States. Call today to schedule your appointment: (407) 591-6747.
