The low fuel warning light is the indicator on your car’s dashboard that alerts you when the fuel level is critically low. In most cars, this light will be activated when the fuel tank reaches 10-15% capacity.
It’s important to recognise your car’s low fuel warning light – and to know how to respond to it. Ignoring it could cause your engine to stall, which is an inconvenience at best, and extremely dangerous at worst – especially if this happens in an isolated area or on a busy road.
Repeatedly running out of fuel can also damage your fuel pump over time. Therefore, if you want to keep your motor in good condition, you should act promptly whenever your low fuel warning light appears.
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What is a low fuel warning light?
The low fuel warning light is one of the main dashboard warning lights - and activates when the fuel level is running low.
In most vehicles, the low fuel warning light is represented by an icon resembling a gas pump, or simply the words, ‘low fuel’. Most low fuel warning lights are programmed to appear when the fuel tank’s capacity falls to around 10-15%.
Common causes for the low fuel warning light
Knowing why your low fuel warning light has switched on will help you take better care of your engine – and fix any issues promptly. Here are the common causes of the low fuel warning light:
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Low fuel level: A properly working low fuel light should only appear once your fuel levels have dropped to around 10-15%.
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Faulty fuel gauge sensor: If you notice the low fuel warning light coming on when your fuel levels are normal, this could be a sign that your fuel gauge sensor isn’t working correctly.
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Issues with the fuel pump: A faulty fuel pump might stop fuel circulating properly, causing the low fuel warning light to switch on unnecessarily.
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Electrical issues in the fuel system: A faulty low fuel warning light could indicate issues with your fuel system, which should always be looked over by a qualified mechanic.
Symptoms of low fuel
Other signs that your fuel is running low, besides an active low fuel warning light, include:
- Engine sputtering.
- Difficulty starting the car.
- Reduced engine performance.
- Stalling.
Can you drive with the low fuel warning light on?
Yes, you can technically drive with an active low fuel warning light.
However, you should proceed with caution - and drive to a petrol station as soon as possible. Most cars can safely continue for a further 30-50 miles after the light activates.
Beyond this point, the engine may sputter - and could sustain serious damage before your car comes to a halt. If you suspect that you’ll run out fuel before you reach the next petrol station, call your breakdown provider for recovery.
How to diagnose low fuel issues
If your low fuel warning light is switching on more often than you’d expect, other issues besides low fuel may be at play. Here are a few steps you can take to diagnose a low fuel light issue:
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Check the fuel gauge: Your owner’s manual should explain how to do so.
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Inspect for fuel leaks: Look for puddles under where your vehicle is parked – and check for odours whilst driving.
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Look out for fuel pump failures: Signs of a failing fuel pump include hesitation whilst accelerating, the engine shutting off randomly, unusual sounds – and difficulties starting your car.
How to fix low fuel issues
In most cases, when the low fuel light appears, you simply need to fill up the tank. However, if the light persists after you fill up, here are a few more potential solutions:
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Checking and replacing the fuel gauge sensor.
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Repairing or replacing a faulty fuel pump,
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Addressing any electrical issues within the fuel system.
If in doubt about any low fuel issues, get in touch with a mechanic for help.
Tips to avoid running low on fuel
Running low on fuel on a regular basis can wear your engine down over time. To avoid this, you should:
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Check your fuel gauge regularly.
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Be mindful of how quickly you usually run through a tank of fuel.
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If you suspect you’re dealing with a fuel system issue, take your car to a mechanic for diagnosis immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Once your low fuel warning light has switched on, you’ll typically be able to cover 30-50 miles before you run out of fuel. The distance you can travel will vary slightly depending on your car’s fuel economy, your driving style, and the road conditions.
Some cars have a distance to empty (DTE) display, which can give you a more accurate estimate.
If your low fuel warning light appears, you should always check how much fuel you have left - and fill up the fuel tank as soon as you’re able to. If you believe the low fuel warning light is appearing when it shouldn’t, consult a mechanic.
Yes, driving with low fuel repeatedly may cause wear to the engine, fuel pump, and fuel gauge sensor over time.
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