How driving on empty can damage your car - Royal Examiner (2024)

Driving with a depleted gas tank is risky. In addition to the possibility you’ll get stranded on the side of the road, you could potentially damage your vehicle. Here’s what you should know about driving on empty.

It can damage your fuel filter
Dirt and debris will collect in your gas tank over time. If you drive while the fuel level is very low, there’s a risk this debris will get sucked into your fuel pump and clog the fuel filter.

It can damage your fuel pump
Fuel pumps are designed to operate while submerged in gasoline. Plus, the fuel in your tank helps keep the pump cool. Running on empty will expose the fuel pump and cause it to overheat.

It can cause your engine to misfire
If your gas tank gets too low, the fuel pump will suck in air, which can cause your engine to misfire. Over time, multiple misfires may damage your engine.

It can damage the exhaust system
If you run out of fuel, your car will sputter and stall, which can damage your catalytic converter, an expensive part of your vehicle’s exhaust system.

You can avoid these problems by always having plenty of fuel in the tank. Make sure to start looking for a gas station when your tank is a quarter full.

How far can you go on an empty tank?
Your dashboard warning light will illuminate when two to three gallons of gasoline remain in the tank. How far you can travel depends on the type of vehicle you drive, road conditions, whether you’re driving uphill or downhill, and if you’re cruising in town or on the highway.

Related Topics:

Imagine this: you’re driving to work one morning, and suddenly—bam!—you’re in a car accident. Thankfully, you’re not hurt, but your car is in bad shape. What should you expect next? Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens after a crash, especially regarding insurance.

Working with Your Insurance Company

Once the dust settles, your insurance company will step in to handle the cost of repairs, but how this happens depends on your choices.

Many insurance companies prefer customers to use one of their “in-network” repair shops. According to Value Penguin, you will likely never see an insurance check if you choose this route. Instead, the insurance company will work directly with the shop to pay for the repairs. This means you avoid the hassle of being the middleman between the insurance company and the mechanic. Plus, if something goes wrong—say the mechanic leaves town without finishing the job—the insurance company is responsible for dealing with it, not you.

However, if you decide to go with a repair shop of your choosing, things are a bit different. If your chosen mechanic disappears with the money or doesn’t complete the work properly, you might be on the hook to cover the repair costs out of pocket.

If Your Car Is Financed or Leased

If your damaged car is financed, the insurance process can get more complicated. In most cases, your insurance company will issue a check made out to both you and the lender. This is because the lender still technically owns the car until you repay the loan. The lender might decide to pay the repair shop directly, or they might cash the check and let you handle the payments.

If you lease your car, the terms of your leasing agreement will likely require you to make full repairs. You might receive a settlement check from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, but be careful not to spend it on a vacation instead of fixing the car. Failing to repair leased or financed vehicles can violate your agreement and cause legal and financial troubles.

If the Car Is Yours Outright

You have more flexibility if you own your car outright and it’s not financed or leased. Technically, you’re not obligated to repair it. However, there’s a catch: if you choose not to fix the damage, your insurance company won’t pay for the same repairs twice. For example, if the damage worsens over time or contributes to future problems, they’ll deny coverage for those expenses, leaving you responsible.

Making the Right Choice

So, after an accident, you have several decisions to make regarding repairs. Here are a few things to consider:

• Go with the In-Network Repair Shop: This option minimizes your involvement and ensures the insurance company handles any issues directly.
• Choose Your Own Mechanic: This allows more control over where your car is repaired, but it carries the risk that you could be responsible if something goes wrong.
• Follow the Terms of Your Financing or Lease: If your car is financed or leased, make sure to adhere to any requirements regarding repairs to avoid penalties or breaches of contract.
• Consider Future Implications: Even if your car is paid off, think twice before skipping repairs. Not fixing your vehicle now could lead to more significant, uncovered expenses later.

Accidents can be stressful, but knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions protecting your wallet and vehicle. Remember, each step after a crash involves weighing your options and considering the long-term consequences.

Continue Reading

As fall sets in and the weather changes, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for the winter months ahead. While a fall tune-up might seem like something you can skip, neglecting this essential maintenance could lead to bigger problems. Here are four reasons why getting a fall tune-up is crucial for your car:

1. Save Money on Repairs

Summer driving often stresses your car, from long road trips to driving in hot conditions. A fall tune-up offers the perfect opportunity to address any wear and tear before it becomes a costly repair. During a tune-up, mechanics check fluid levels, inspect belts and hoses, and perform other preventative maintenance tasks. By catching small issues early, you can avoid expensive breakdowns and repairs in the future.

2. Stay Safe on the Road When the Weather Turns

Road conditions can quickly become hazardous with rain, ice, or snow as temperatures drop. Switching to winter tires during a fall tune-up is crucial to ensure better traction and handling on slippery surfaces. Winter tires are designed to perform in colder weather, providing optimal grip and safety so you can confidently drive during the harshest winter months.

3. Maximize Your Car’s Performance

Cold weather can impact your car’s engine, battery, and other vital systems. A fall tune-up ensures these components are adjusted and ready for the winter months. Fine-tuning the ignition, fuel, and brakes can help your car run smoothly and efficiently, even in low temperatures. Regular maintenance keeps your car running at its best, improving performance and fuel efficiency.

4. Extend the Lifespan of Your Vehicle

Routine maintenance, including a fall tune-up, helps keep your car in good condition and can even extend its lifespan. By taking care of potential issues before they worsen and preparing your car for the winter season, you help ensure that it stays reliable for years to come. Plus, staying on top of scheduled maintenance can keep your car in compliance with warranty requirements, potentially saving you money in the long run.

Don’t wait until winter arrives—schedule your fall tune-up at your local auto repair shop today to keep your car safe, efficient, and ready for whatever the colder months have in store.

Continue Reading

Experiencing an overheating engine can be a nerve-wracking situation for any driver. However, staying calm and taking the proper steps can help prevent severe damage to your vehicle. Here’s what to do if your engine starts to overheat:

1. Cut the AC

If you notice your engine overheating, don’t panic. Turn off the air conditioning to reduce stress on the engine. Then, turn on the heat. This may seem counterintuitive, but the heater draws hot air away from the engine, helping it cool down.

2. Pull Over Safely and Stop the Engine

As soon as you can, safely pull over to the side of the road or into a parking lot. Turn off the engine immediately to prevent further overheating and potential damage.

3. Pop the Hood

First, give your engine about 15 minutes to cool down. Then, pop the hood to help dissipate the heat. If you open the hood immediately, you could get burned by hot steam or smoke. Always exercise caution when dealing with a hot engine.

4. Check the Coolant Level

After the engine has cooled, check the coolant level in the radiator and the overflow reservoir. If the coolant level is low, add some if you have it on hand. However, never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot, as it can cause severe burns from escaping steam and hot coolant.

5. Wait Before Restarting

If you can’t get towed, allow the engine to cool down for at least 30 minutes before restarting the car. Once it has cooled sufficiently, drive carefully and immediately go to the nearest auto repair shop to inspect your cooling system.

Regular maintenance and inspections by a certified auto technician can help prevent overheating issues in the future. Keeping your cooling system in good working order and addressing any minor issues before they become major problems is key to ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

By following these steps, you can confidently handle an overheating engine and prevent further damage to your vehicle.

Continue Reading

Optimizing your car’s air conditioning (AC) system can make all the difference between a comfortable ride and a sweaty, miserable journey. Here are six tips to ensure your car’s AC system works efficiently:

1. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance

Conduct routine maintenance, including inspecting your AC system at a trusted auto repair shop every spring before the summer heat sets in. Regular check-ups can help identify potential issues early and keep your system running smoothly.

2. Park in the Shade

Park your car in the shade whenever possible to prevent the interior from heating up excessively. Using a windshield shade can also help minimize heat buildup inside the vehicle. By keeping your car cooler, your AC system won’t have to work as hard to bring the temperature down.

3. Pre-Cool the Cabin

On hot days, roll down the windows or open the doors for a few minutes before starting your journey to release the hot air trapped inside. This helps the AC system cool the cabin more quickly and efficiently once you start driving.

4. Use Recirculation Mode

When the cabin is sufficiently cooled, switch to recirculation mode to circulate the already-cooled air inside the car. This reduces the workload on the AC system, making it more efficient and helping maintain a comfortable temperature.

5. Adjust the Fan Speed and Temperature

Set the temperature to the lowest setting and adjust the fan speed comfortably. Setting the temperature higher forces the AC to mix warm air with the cold, making it work harder. Using the lowest temperature setting ensures that the AC system operates efficiently.

6. Regularly Clean the Vents and Ducts

Use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris that could restrict airflow in air vents and ducts. Keeping these areas clean helps maintain optimal airflow and ensures that your AC system can cool the cabin effectively.

Additionally, consider getting an AC tune-up with a certified auto technician to ensure your vehicle stays cool in the scorching heat. Regular tune-ups can help maintain the efficiency and longevity of your car’s AC system.

Following these tips ensures that your car’s air conditioning system works efficiently, providing a comfortable and pleasant driving experience even on the hottest days.

Continue Reading

Choosing your first car is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many options available. Here are five tips to help you navigate this important decision:

1. Set a Budget

Determine how much you can comfortably spend on your first car. Remember to factor in the purchase price, taxes, and ongoing expenses like insurance, fuel, maintenance, and registration fees. A clear budget helps narrow your options and ensures you don’t overspend.

2. Consider Your Needs

Think about what you need in a car. Do you require ample cargo space for hauling gear, or is fuel efficiency a priority for your daily commute? Consider your lifestyle and driving habits and make a list of must-have features. This will help you focus on cars that meet your specific requirements.

3. Do Your Research

Look into the reliability ratings and safety features of different makes and models. Reliable cars tend to have lower maintenance costs and can last longer. Safety features are also crucial, especially for new drivers. Websites like Consumer Reports and Edmunds can provide valuable information about various cars.

4. Test Drive Several Cars

Take the time to test drive multiple vehicles to get a feel for their handling, comfort, and overall driving experience. Pay attention to factors like visibility, ease of parking, and interior comfort. Test driving helps you understand which car feels right for you and meets your needs.

5. Consider Buying Used

Buying a used car can offer better value for your money. You can often get a newer model with more features for a lower price than buying a new one. Ensure any used car you’re considering is inspected by a trusted mechanic to ensure it’s in good condition. Certified pre-owned programs from dealerships can also be a good option, as they often come with warranties.

By following these tips and doing thorough research, you can find a reliable car that will provide transportation for years to come. Remember, choosing your first car is not just about the initial excitement—it’s about finding a vehicle that fits your needs and budget while being dependable and safe.

Continue Reading

When it comes to buying a car, how much should you spend? According to financial advisor Sam Dogen, the answer is as little as possible. One of the worst decisions you can make is to focus only on the monthly payment, especially if it’s stretched out over many years. This approach can lead to paying far more than you should for a depreciating asset.

Instead, Dogen recommends a strategy called the 1/10th rule. This rule suggests spending no more than 10 percent of your gross annual income on a car. For instance, if you earn $42,000 a year, you should spend no more than $4,200 on a vehicle. If your annual income is $60,000, your car budget should be $6,000.

Writing for CNBC’s Make It, Dogen explains that adhering to this rule can help you better manage the total costs associated with car ownership, including insurance, maintenance, and fuel. This method allows you to maintain a comfortable financial cushion and allocate more money toward savings and investments, significantly improving your overall financial health.

Dogen believes following the 1/10th rule can lead to a less stressful life. By keeping car costs low, you won’t constantly worry about how to afford car repairs or payments, granting you greater financial freedom. You can focus on more meaningful financial goals.

However, finding a car within 10 percent of your income can be challenging. In March this year, dealerships had a limited supply of older, high-mileage vehicles priced below $15,000. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average used car was listed at $25,540 during the same month. Even a 2016 to 2017 minivan with 80,000 miles costs around $15,000 to $16,000 today.

If sticking to the 1/10th rule seems impossible, consider the 20/4/10 rule. This alternative strategy involves putting down 20 percent of the car’s price, financing the vehicle for no longer than four years, and ensuring that your total car expenses (loan payment, insurance, and fuel) do not exceed 10 percent of your gross income.

Following these guidelines can help you make smarter car-buying decisions that align with your financial goals. By minimizing car expenses, you can allocate more resources to savings, investments, and other essential areas of your life, ultimately leading to better financial health and less stress.

Continue Reading