When your gas gauge is on low, you might be tempted to see how far you can get. After all, there is a grace period below the empty mark, and many people get used to cutting it close. However, it isn’t generally the best idea to drive on an empty tank. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t drive on empty and how doing so could lead to the need for roadside assistance. 

3 Dangers of Driving When Low on Gas

1. Running Out Completely 

Although many people assume that gas gauges are completely accurate, they are more of an estimate. Because research has shown that motorists prefer a grace period before their gauge is completely empty, manufacturers alter the displays to account for this preference. However, this also means it isn’t possible to know exactly how much further your car will take you. As such, always fill up when you reach a quarter of a tank. 

2. Damaging Your Car

When you run a car on empty, it puts more strain on the fuel pump, which can eventually cause the component to burn out prematurely. Since older cars can struggle with sediment in the fuel tank, running the vehicle on empty could allow tiny fragments of metal and other sediments to be sucked into the engine, where they can form sludge or lead to engine failure. 

3. Getting Stranded

Although roadside assistance professionals are available 24/7 to help people who find themselves without working transportation on the side of the road, you still want to avoid being stranded. By keeping your car filled with gas, you can prevent the need for roadside assistance and avoid having to wait for help to arrive. 

Whether you run out of gas or experience car problems, the roadside assistance team at Goldbeck Towing Service is ready to help. They can help with everything from fuel outages to 24-hour towing. Find out more about why people throughout the greater La Crosse, WI, area have been trusting this team of roadside professionals for more than 60 years by visiting their website. Call their office at (608) 781-4869 to schedule service.