Sometimes while driving it may get one by surprise that the fuel level has started declining before even one gets to his or her destination. It has been known to be dangerous to drive a car that has a low level of fuel. Driving a car with a low fuel level may lead to the damage of the fuel pump. The contaminants settling at the bottom of the tank from the gas will also be sent via the fuel pump in case the tank runs empty. This will make the empty tank suck in air through the pump and in return generate heat if the tank is exposed to air. This may also reduce the working life of the fuel pump. Making the tank run low on fuel level will also create room for sediments building up in the fuel tank.
If one decides to drive on an empty tank the car may start picking debris found on the bottom which may also lead to the damage of both the fuel filter and the pump. Damage of the catalytic converter may also occur. Depending on the model of the car, one can drive up to 30 miles or even more than 100 miles when the tank is almost empty. This will however depend on how one drives, the condition of the car, among some other variables. Driving on low fuel levels may also lead to stall at any second.
The effects of running out of the fuel may be due to sudden power loss in the engine. This may happen even in busy roads which might lead to accidents as controlling the vehicle might become very hard. The driver may also experience stress due to panic brought about by low fuel levels as it may distract other road users. In most cases, the vehicles show the signs of fuel starvation which may include engine sputter, backfiring of engines, or even intermittent power surges. The driver should take not and take the necessary action on time.