Running a car on fumes can cause severe damage to the fuel pump, and knowing why this occurs is important in order to avoid expensive repairs. The fuel pump relies on the gasoline inside the tank for both the delivery and cooling of the fuel. When the fuel level is too low, the pump’s motor is no longer fully submerged in the liquid, causing it to overheat. This is a big problem because an uncooled pump struggles harder and takes damage internally. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, repeated running on low fuel often results in overheating-which accounts for nearly 20% of fuel pump failures.
Another important issue starts with contaminants in the fuel tank. When a car runs on empty, the sediment and debris that have settled at the bottom of the tank are more likely to be sucked into the fuel pump. These particles can clog or damage the fuel filter, which further reduces the pump’s efficiency. In older vehicles, rust and dirt tend to build up over time, making the problem worse. According to a report by AutoWeek, running on empty raises the chances of contaminants reaching the pump by some 30%, possibly causing a pump failure or a clogged fuel system.
Automotive expert John Simmons points out that fuel pumps are actually cooled and lubricated by the fuel itself. “When there is not enough fuel, the pump has to work harder and usually overheats itself into failure.” An owner should always bear this in mind since running on low levels may accelerate wear and tear on the pump. The fuel pump is one of the most important components in a vehicle for delivering fuel to the engine, and when it fails, it can disrupt the entire performance of the vehicle.
According to studies from the U.S. Department of Energy, vehicles that consistently run with less than 10% fuel are twice as likely to have fuel pump problems within the next 12 months. This can lead to expensive repairs; replacing a fuel pump, for example, can range from $400 up to $1,000, depending on the brand and model. Running your car frequently at low fuel levels doesn’t just shorten its life expectancy of the fuel pump, but also jeopardizes incurring high-cost repairs.
To protect the fuel pump and avoid these issues, experts recommend keeping at least a quarter tank of fuel in your vehicle. This not only ensures that the pump remains properly lubricated and cooled but also prevents contaminants from clogging the system. In addition to extending the life of your fuel pump, maintaining a sufficient fuel level can improve the overall efficiency of your vehicle. Running on empty will also lead to frequent wear of other components of the engine, which could further contribute to poor fuel economy.
In short, a fuel pump is very sensitive to overheating and contamination; running a car on empty increases these risks. Keeping the fuel level above a quarter tank can significantly minimize the chances of fuel pump failure and save one from costly repairs. Always remember that a well-maintained Fuel Pump is the smoothness your vehicle needs, and taking simple precautions will save you from costly fixes down the road.
