The reserve light comes on on your dashboard. Don’t panic! Contrary to popular belief, you generally have a comfortable margin of maneuver before you run out of fuel. Find out the truth about your remaining range and the precautions you should take to preserve your vehicle.
Range varies according to model
The moment the fuel warning light comes on can be a source of anxiety for drivers. But there’s no need to panic immediately. The remaining range depends on several factors specific to each vehicle.
Pierre Dupontan automotive expert at a major French carmaker, explains: “As a general rule, the warning light is activated when between 10% and 15% of the tank’s total capacity remains. This represents a comfortable safety margin for most urban journeys.
Estimate your real range
To accurately calculate your remaining range, two key elements come into play:
Tank capacity: This varies considerably from one model to another. A city car may have a 40-liter tank, while a large SUV may have 80 liters or more.
Average fuel consumption: This depends on engine type, driving style and traffic conditions. A gasoline vehicle in the city will consume more than a diesel on the freeway.
Marie LeroyFor a quick estimate, multiply your remaining tank capacity by 100 and divide by your average fuel consumption. For example, with 4 liters left and a fuel consumption of 6 L/100 km, you can theoretically cover around 66 km.”
Figures to be qualified
Although these calculations give an indication, it is crucial to remain cautious. Jean-Michel Martineco-driving trainer, warns: “These estimates are based on ideal conditions. In reality, many factors can reduce range: heavy traffic, sporty driving, use of air conditioning, etc.”
It is therefore advisable to consider these figures as a maximum limit, and to allow for a safety margin. In practice, these orders of magnitude can be used:
- Small city car: 30 to 50 km range after warning light comes on
- Family sedan: 50 to 70 km
- Large SUV or minivan: 70 to 100 km
The risks of prolonged reserve driving
Although technically possible, systematically driving with a nearly empty tank is not without consequences. Sophie Duboisa mechanic specializing in injection system maintenance, warns of two major risks:
Damage to the fuel system: “The bottom of the fuel tank accumulates impurities. By drawing from this area, you run the risk of prematurely clogging the fuel filter, or even damaging the fuel pump”.
Premature pump wear: “When the fuel level is very low, the pump can suck in air. This causes overheating and mechanical stress, which shortens the pump’s service life.”
Adopting good practices
To protect your vehicle and avoid stressful situations, here are a few useful tips:
Anticipate your fill-ups: Plan a stop at the service station as soon as the level reaches a quarter of the tank. You’ll avoid stress and preserve your mechanics.
Keep an emergency reserve: An approved 5-liter jerry can in the trunk can get you out of a tricky situation, especially on freeways where stations are far apart.
Adopt eco-driving: Smooth, anticipatory driving can reduce your fuel consumption by 15-20%, increasing your range by the same amount.
Use apps: Many mobile apps locate the nearest service stations and compare prices, allowing you to optimize your stops.
The low reserve light shouldn’t be a source of anxiety, but rather a gentle reminder that it’s time to think about refueling. By understanding how your vehicle works and adopting the right reflexes, you’ll be able to drive with complete peace of mind, even when the needle is flirting with zero.
