I’ve got an '07 Explorer, and I’m wondering if there’s still a bit of fuel left when the gauge reads 0 miles to empty. If so, how much? Any insights appreciated.
RIP fuel pump.
Lexi said:
RIP fuel pump.
Yeah, it’s a real issue. A lot of folks don’t realize the fuel pump motor is cooled by the gas in the tank. Letting it drop too low (below a quarter tank) can cause it to overheat and wear out faster. Kind of a mystery why this info isn’t more well-known.
@Alexis
Also, running it low increases the risk of any dirt or sediment in the tank getting pulled into the fuel filter, which could clog things up if too much builds up.
@Alexis
Yep, running out of gas can mess up the catalytic converters too if you’re driving at high speed. It’s actually in the owner’s manual.
Lexi said:
RIP fuel pump.
And after you replace the pump, you’ll be putting in 10 gallons just to see it barely reach a quarter tank.
Ty said:
Probably around 50 miles, but with winter coming, it’s not a good idea to let it get to zero. Condensation can form in your fuel system when it’s that low, and that can make it hard to start.
Is that an accurate estimate for the '07 Explorer, or just a rough guess?
@Ty
Obviously, it’s an emergency situation.
Ash said:
@Ty
Obviously, it’s an emergency situation.
Well, you get what you get after it hits zero—no guarantees.
@Ash
That’s just an estimate based on how much fuel is left, but actual range depends on a lot—your driving style, terrain, weather, even tire pressure.
Xian said:
@Ash
That’s just an estimate based on how much fuel is left, but actual range depends on a lot—your driving style, terrain, weather, even tire pressure.
So, is there at least a gallon left?
@Ash
At most, probably.
From my experience with my 2004 V8, when it says 0 miles to empty, there’s usually around 1 to 1.5 gallons left.
Cosmo Kramer tested that theory once.
So, there’s at least a gallon left?
Ash said:
So, there’s at least a gallon left?
At most.
Funny that you’re getting downvoted for asking this; it’s good to know the limits of your car. My parents actually taught me to run a car out of gas in a safe setting, just to know what to expect (especially if you’re used to a carbureted engine).
Sometimes people don’t have the cash to fill up regularly, so I get it.
I don’t have specific knowledge for your Explorer, but you could pick up a gas can and test it if you’re curious. I should probably do the same with mine.
Ty said:
@Keelan
“Run your car out of gas and risk your fuel pump just so you can say you know what it’s like!”
Really no need to do this if you just treat zero as zero.
I do treat zero as zero, thanks. You can keep the attitude to yourself.
I’d say around 40 miles, but it’s not the best idea to push it. I tested it on my 2016 Explorer once—got about 42 miles after it hit zero, but I wouldn’t recommend doing that often. It’s tough on the engine and other parts.