Every once in a while, most people have probably waited just a little longer than usual to get gas. But is it really that bad? Skiles Automotive has some information that you need about driving around without enough gas.
The Mix of Fuel, Air, and Spark Is Delicate
Combustion engines have some very specific needs. They achieve combustion by mixing air and fuel with a spark at just the right time and in just the right amounts. If any of those elements are timed badly or arrive in the wrong amount, the engine misfires. When you’re in the habit of driving around with your gas tank more empty than full, you tend to get more air in the mix. That’s not great for your engine in the long run.
A Lot of Gunk Can Escape the Gas Tank
Something else that happens when gas gets low in the tank is that sludge and gunk from the tank is more likely to escape the fuel filter. When that happens, those undesirable elements head into your car’s engine. You definitely don’t want them there, because it’s going to collect in the engine and cause all sorts of issues. Keeping the tank over half full keeps your fuel pump from latching onto that sludge and dragging it into the engine.
You Might Damage Your Fuel Pump
Your fuel pump runs the whole time your car is running, because it’s shuttling gas from the tank to the engine continuously. As it runs, it heats up, like most things in your car. The gas in your gas tank works to help to keep your fuel pump cooler and it helps to keep it running smoothly. When you let your tank get empty, the fuel pump isn’t protected and it’s more likely to fail.
You Can End up Stranded
The biggest issue with running on empty all the time, beyond damaging your car in expensive ways, is that you’re more likely to end up stranded somewhere. Most people don’t have the time or the energy to put up with that too often. Also, if you need to drive at night or in remote locations, getting yourself stranded is an even worse idea.
Feel like something isn’t working right with your fuel system or with your car’s engine? Get in touch with Skiles Automotive in Bremen, IN. We can diagnose the issue and let you know what repairs are necessary so you can get safely back on the road.
