How to Start Car When Fuel is Empty
Starting your car when the fuel is empty can be a daunting experience, but it’s not an uncommon situation. Whether you’ve accidentally driven too far on a tank or simply forgot to refuel, here are some steps you can follow to get your car running again without causing any harm to the engine.
1. Check the Fuel Gauge
The first step is to check your fuel gauge. If it’s at or near empty, you may have driven your car on fumes. If the gauge is still showing a small amount of fuel, you might still have enough to start the car and reach a gas station.
2. Turn Off the Engine
If you’ve determined that there’s no fuel left, turn off your engine immediately. Continuing to drive on empty can cause significant damage to your engine, especially if you’re using a fuel-injected car.
3. Locate the Fuel Pump Relay
In many modern vehicles, the fuel pump relay is located under the hood. It’s a small box with several wires coming out of it. If you’re not familiar with your car’s layout, consult the owner’s manual for the exact location.
4. Access the Fuel Pump Relay
Once you’ve located the fuel pump relay, you’ll need to access it. This may involve removing a few bolts or clips to release the relay box. Be sure to set the bolts and clips aside so you can easily put them back in place.
5. Disconnect the Fuel Pump Relay
With the relay box accessible, disconnect the fuel pump relay. This will temporarily shut off the fuel pump, preventing any potential damage to the engine.
6. Push the Fuel Pump Relay In
After disconnecting the relay, push it back into the relay box. This will reset the fuel pump circuit and allow you to attempt starting the car again.
7. Start the Car
With the fuel pump relay reconnected, try starting your car. If the engine turns over but doesn’t start, it’s possible that the battery is weak or the engine is too hot. In this case, wait a few minutes for the engine to cool down and try again.
8. Drive to the Nearest Gas Station
If your car starts successfully, drive it to the nearest gas station as soon as possible. Refueling is crucial to prevent any long-term damage to your vehicle.
9. Prevent Future Accidents
To avoid finding yourself in this situation again, always keep an eye on your fuel gauge and make sure to refuel before your tank gets too low. Additionally, consider installing a fuel level sensor that alerts you when your fuel level is low.
Remember, starting your car on empty is not recommended, as it can cause severe damage to your engine. However, by following these steps, you can minimize the risk and get back on the road safely.
