How far your car is really able to go when the fuel warning light comes on
08.08.2023 - 15:09
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
Plenty of drivers across the UK dread seeing the 'low fuel' warning light flash up on the dashboard.
Unfortunately, it means having to halt your journey and spend more money in the petrol station forecourts, so it can be tempting to ignore the light for as long as possible.
But a new study has revealed just how far certain cars are able to travel on low fuel - and it might be a further distance than you think.
It can be risky taking to the roads when the fuel warning light is illuminated, but researchers at Compare the Market have analysed some of the most popular fuel-efficient cars to find out the number of miles they can go.
The price comparison site surveyed 2,000 UK drivers to reveal how many miles they think they have left when the fuel light is on, then compared it to how many they actually have remaining, Wales Online reports.
Around 36% of the drivers surveyed had ran out of fuel whilst on a car journey, while most people also tend to wait an average of six days to fill up their vehicle after the warning light comes on.
Car insurance expert Julie Daniels said: "Running an engine with little to no petrol can cause severe mechanical damage to your car, so motorists should always keep an eye on fuel levels. If you do find yourself driving with your fuel light on, avoid driving at high speeds, turn electronics (such as your radio and air conditioning) off, and fill up as soon as you pass a fuel station."
According to Compare the Market, the 10 most fuel efficient cars are:
Average miles left after fuel light comes on
How many miles drivers think they have left
1
Toyota
Prius
99.26
15.50
2
Mercedes-benz
E-Class
85.01
25.50
3
Land rover
Range Rover
72.87
35.50
4
Honda
CR-V
68.53
5.50
5
Jaguar
F-pace
67.88
5.50
6
Volvo
V40
66.79
20.50
7
Jaguar
XE
63.76
5.5