Regan Brown
Running out of gas in your car can be annoying, embarrassing, and may even damage your vehicle. While it is rare, it does happen. When the tank is empty, the engine will start to draw in air along with the last dregs of fuel. This air can stop the engine from restarting, as it disrupts the fuel-air mix required for combustion. This can also cause the fuel pump to overheat and fail. In diesel engines, air in the fuel system can damage the injectors and filters, and may require professional help to get the engine running again.
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What You'll Learn
Fuel acts as a lubricant
It is generally agreed that running a car out of gas is not a good idea. However, it is unlikely to ruin the fuel injection system. That said, it could cause issues with the fuel pump, which may overheat due to a lack of fuel to keep it cool.
Lubricity was defined by Appeldorn and Dukek in the 1960s as: "If two liquids have the same viscosity, and one gives lower friction, wear or scuffing, it is said to have better lubricity". Some moving parts of fuel pumps and injectors are protected from wear by the fuel. For example, leaded gasoline acts as a lubricant for the internal engine parts of older cars, preventing them from wearing out too quickly. However, lead is harmful to the environment and catalytic converters, which are mandatory on cars built after 1977.
The increased use of biofuels, such as biodiesel, may require a reduction in oil drain intervals, as they can contaminate the lubricant. The move towards active regeneration of particulate filters and stop-start systems will also lead to increased fuel dilution. Fuel dilution is a particular concern with diesel vehicles, as the lower volatility of diesel fuel means there could be relatively high levels of diesel fuel present in the lubricant at high temperatures.
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Overheating of the fuel pump
Running a car out of gas can potentially ruin the fuel injection system. While this is not a common occurrence, it is a possibility.
One of the main reasons this happens is due to the overheating of the fuel pump. The fuel pump is responsible for circulating fuel flow and generating power for the vehicle. When the fuel in the tank runs out, the pump may overheat due to a lack of lubrication and cooling provided by the fuel. This can cause the pump to fail or work poorly, leading to serious interruptions in engine operation and unexpected stalling while driving.
Additionally, without sufficient fuel, the pump motor can spin faster than intended, leading to potential damage. The pump may also suck up debris from the bottom of the tank, clogging the pump, lines, or injectors.
To prevent overheating, it is recommended to maintain fuel levels above a quarter of a tank. This ensures that the pump remains adequately lubricated and cooled, preventing friction and heat buildup.
Symptoms of an overheating fuel pump include unusual engine behavior, such as stuttering, stalling, unusual noises, sputtering, or backfiring. If you experience any of these issues, it is advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a certified mechanic to diagnose and address any potential problems with the fuel pump or fuel injection system.
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Clogged fuel lines
A clogged fuel line can cause a variety of issues, from difficulty starting your car to a sudden shut-off of the engine while driving. If you turn the key and the engine sputters and dies, or does not start at all, it may be a sign that the fuel line is clogged and fuel is not reaching the engine. This can also cause a loss of power and even cause you to fail an emissions test.
Smoke in the car or smoke coming from under the hood is another indicator of a clogged fuel line. A fuel line leak caused by a clog can be extremely dangerous and may result in a puddle of gasoline under your car. If you notice any fumes or smoke, it is important to get your car checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Additionally, if your car is having trouble accelerating, it could be due to a clogged fuel line. The engine may not be getting enough power, which can be dangerous when trying to merge onto a highway or pass another vehicle.
One possible cause of a clogged fuel line is running the tank very low on fuel. This can cause debris from the bottom of the tank to be sucked into the fuel lines. However, this debris should be caught by the fuel filter and removed before causing any significant damage.
To address a clogged fuel line, it is recommended to consult a mechanic for diagnosis and fuel line replacement.
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Sucking water from the tank
Secondly, water in the fuel tank can lead to rusting on the inside. Over time, water will sink to the bottom of the tank and, if left there, will cause rusting. This process is expedited if the tank has ridges or edges. Additionally, water can trigger lubrication issues, which may lead to an overheating fuel pump. Furthermore, the presence of water can cause ignition and acceleration problems, as well as sudden stoppages.
To check for the presence of water in your fuel tank, you can employ several methods. Firstly, examine the colour of the fuel; it will appear darker if water is present. Secondly, water in the fuel tank can often emit a foul smell. Thirdly, water can lead to microbial growth, which can be indicative of its presence. Finally, you can use a dipstick laced with water-finding paste to detect water in the tank.
It is important to address water accumulation in your fuel tank to prevent potential damage to your vehicle's engine and ensure optimal performance.
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Fuel pump failure
Fuel Pump Function and Failure
The fuel pump is a critical component in a vehicle's fuel delivery system. It is responsible for transporting fuel from the gas tank to the engine, ensuring efficient combustion. Fuel pump failure can lead to the fuel injectors being deprived of fuel, resulting in engine stalls and the vehicle coming to a halt.
Fuel Contamination
One of the leading causes of fuel pump failure is fuel contamination. It occurs when impurities such as dirt, water, or rust enter the fuel system and degrade fuel quality. While fuel filters are designed to trap these contaminants, clogged filters can allow impurities to pass through and reach the pump, causing damage over time.
Electrical Faults
Electrical issues are another significant contributor to fuel pump failures. Corroded connectors, loose or damaged wiring, and melted wiring can disrupt the consistent electrical current required for proper fuel pump operation. These problems can lead to engine stalling, difficulty starting the engine, or even a complete inability to start the vehicle.
Overheating
Running your vehicle on low fuel levels can also contribute to fuel pump failure. Gasoline acts as a coolant for in-tank fuel pumps, and when fuel levels are consistently low, the pump is subjected to higher temperatures, which can shorten its lifespan. Additionally, low fuel levels require the pump to work harder, leading to potential overheating and increased strain on the pump's components.
Blockages and Clogged Filters
Blockages in the fuel system, such as clogged fuel filters or strainers, can restrict fuel flow. This restriction forces the fuel pump to operate under higher pressure and strain, leading to premature wear and eventual failure of the pump's components. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the fuel tank and replacing fuel filters as per the manufacturer's recommendations, is crucial to prevent blockages and maintain fuel pump health.
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Frequently asked questions
Running out of gas could cause the fuel pump to overheat and fail, and it may take a while for it to cool down to a normal operating temperature. It can also cause debris to be sucked up from the bottom of the tank, clogging the pump, lines, or injectors.
You will likely notice a drop in your car's performance, but you might also experience intermittent power surges and engine backfiring or sputtering. The hydraulic power being fed into your power steering and brakes will also begin to die.
If your car has run out of fuel, you may need to bleed the fuel line. You can do this by idling the bike while leaning it forward and back to move any air along.
Before going on a long journey or driving in bad weather, ensure that your car is fully topped up.
