Keeping fuel in your Mazda means that you’re always ready for your next driving adventure, but what about when the gas levels get really low? Is that a problem? Mazcare wants to help you to protect your Mazda so it lasts as long as possible, which is why we’re going to answer that question with a resounding “yes.” Here is how you can damage your Mazda by driving it on empty.
Set a New Minimum for Yourself
First, we recommend that you rethink your gas gauge a bit. Instead of waiting for it to hit “E,” or waiting for the low fuel light before you head to the gas station, make it a point to get gas when your tank is at a quarter of a tank at a minimum. The reason for this is to help protect your fuel pump and other important parts of your car. It can even extend the life of your Mazda.
You Risk Debris Getting in Your Fuel Pump
The fuel pump in your Mazda is in the gas tank, which means that as gas levels get lower, it’s much more likely that debris can get drawn into the fuel pump. Another problem involves overheating the fuel pump. When there’s more than a quarter tank of gas in the fuel tank, it helps to keep the fuel pump properly cooled. An overheating fuel pump can quickly fail.
Your Car’s Catalytic Converter Is at Risk
The catalytic converter is a part most people don’t think about, but it’s a crucial part of the exhaust system. It takes noxious gases and fumes from the engine and converts them to less harmful fumes before sending them through the rest of the exhaust system. If you run your Mazda’s engine on empty, that can catastrophically damage the catalytic converter.
What Do You Do if Your Low Fuel Light Comes On?
It’s vital to have a plan if you do get caught with too little gas all of a sudden and your Mazda starts to sputter. Turn off all of the accessories, even the air conditioner. This helps to reduce strain on the engine and ensures that every drop of gas is going toward keeping the engine running. Roll up your windows and slowly drive to the nearest gas station.
Driving on empty is never a great plan because of the damage it can cause your Mazda. If you’ve had to drive your car with less gas than is optimal, contact Mazcare in Marietta, GA, for a vehicle inspection.