What to Do If You Run Out of Gas?-Running out of gas can be stressful, especially when it happens on a busy road or highway. Your vehicle may suddenly lose power, leaving you unsure about what to do next.
The first priority is safety. Do not put yourself in danger just to find fuel.
Get Your Vehicle to a Safe Location
If you notice that your vehicle is running out of fuel, try to move it to a safe location before the engine stops.
A shoulder, parking area, or other location away from moving traffic is better than stopping in an active travel lane.
Once the vehicle is stopped, put it in park and turn on the hazard lights.
Stay Away From Moving Traffic
A vehicle without fuel can still create a dangerous roadside situation.
If you are stopped on a highway, do not walk along the roadway looking for a gas station unless you are in a genuinely safe location and local conditions allow it.
Passing vehicles can be difficult to see, and drivers may not expect a person to be walking near the road.
Turn on Your Hazard Lights
Turn on your hazard lights after the vehicle stops.
They make your vehicle more visible and tell other drivers that something is wrong.
At night or during poor weather, visibility becomes even more important.
Do Not Keep Trying to Start the Engine
If the tank is empty, repeatedly turning the engine over will not solve the problem.
It can also put additional strain on the starter and battery.
Once you believe the vehicle has run out of fuel, focus on getting fuel or professional assistance.
Check Your Location
Before calling for help, find your exact location if possible.
Useful information includes:
- Road or highway name
- Direction of travel
- Nearest exit
- Mile marker
- Nearby business or landmark
- Parking lot or street name
If your phone provides location sharing, you can also share your location with the roadside service provider.
Contact Emergency Fuel Delivery
If you cannot safely reach a gas station, emergency fuel delivery may be the easiest solution.
A roadside service provider can bring the appropriate fuel to your location so you can continue your trip.
When calling, tell the provider:
- Your vehicle make and model
- Your location
- Whether the engine has completely stopped
- Whether you need gasoline or diesel
- Any other important vehicle information
It is especially important to confirm the correct fuel type.
Never Put the Wrong Fuel in Your Vehicle
Gasoline and diesel are different fuels.
Putting the wrong fuel into a vehicle can cause serious problems and may require additional service.
If you are unsure about your vehicle’s fuel type, check the fuel door, owner’s manual, or vehicle information before accepting fuel.
What If Your Car Runs Out of Gas on the Highway?
Highway breakdowns require extra caution.
Try to move as far away from traffic as safely possible. Turn on hazard lights and remain in a safe location while waiting for help.
Do not stand near the traffic lane or walk along the highway to find fuel.
If your location is dangerous or you believe there is an immediate threat to your safety, contact emergency services.
Can Running Out of Gas Damage Your Car?
Running completely out of fuel is not something you want to make a habit of.
Depending on the vehicle, repeatedly running the tank empty can contribute to problems with the fuel system. It can also leave you stranded in an unsafe location.
Keeping the fuel level above empty is a simple way to reduce the chance of an unexpected roadside emergency.
How to Prevent Running Out of Gas
A few simple habits can help:
- Refuel when the tank gets low
- Do not depend entirely on the estimated range
- Pay attention to the fuel warning light
- Check your fuel level before long trips
- Know where fuel stations are along unfamiliar routes
Final Thoughts
Running out of gas does not have to become a dangerous situation. Get your vehicle to a safe place, turn on your hazard lights, stay away from traffic, and arrange fuel delivery when needed.
If you are stranded without fuel, professional emergency fuel delivery can bring the correct fuel to your location and help you get moving again.