We all do it. It’s been a long day at work and the idea of stopping at the gas station just seems like too much. “Surely, I can make it home and back and just fill up tomorrow, right?” York Tire & Auto Service in Red Lion, PA, knows that feeling all too well but wants to take a few minutes to warn you of the dangers of driving on empty.
You Could Run Out Of Gas
This is the most obvious one. If you drive on empty for too long, you will eventually run out of gas. Modern cars have all kinds of warnings and dashboard indicators that will alert you long before your car runs out, and ignoring them could mean you sitting on the side of the road or grabbing a pair of walking shoes. Do either one of those options sound easier than just taking the five minutes to pull over and gas up?
Your Engine Is Meant To Run WIth Gas In It
Your car’s engine needs three things to run – fuel, air, and a spark to ignite the fuel. When you drive on empty, your spark plugs are essentially firing at nothing. In the short term, this can cause your engine to sputter or misfire, but drive on empty for too long or too often and you are flirting with serious damage to your car’s engine.
Your Fuel Filter Has To Work Overtime
When you drive on empty, the sediment and debris usually found in your gas tank more easily find their way to your fuel filter. This essential component of your fuel system blocks this debris from entering your engine along with the fuel, and when you drive on empty, it can clog and overload your fuel filter. This spells big trouble for your engine.
Your Fuel Pump Could Go, Too
Your car’s fuel pump is designed to be submerged in fuel to work, so driving on empty means it is exposed to the air. The fuel pump, with continued and often driving on empty, becomes extremely hot, can overheat, and eventually fail.
If you are guilty of driving on empty, and let’s face it – we all are, the team of pros at York Tire & Auto Service in Red Lion, PA, are here to help. We can inspect your engine and fuel system to check for any damage and can help with any necessary repairs. Make an appointment today!
