Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing a vehicle, especially if you’re someone who tends to push the limits on how far you can drive before refueling. Ignoring the low-fuel warning light can have serious consequences, as MarketWatch Guides recently highlighted in a study that identified the vehicles with the shortest driving ranges after the fuel light comes on.
### The Hyundai Kona 2.0 Essential: Shortest Driving Distance
The study found that the Hyundai Kona 2.0 Essential topped the list with a mere 36.97 miles of low-fuel driving distance. This means that if you’re an owner of this vehicle, it’s crucial to heed the warning and refuel promptly to avoid running out of gas unexpectedly.
### Factors Impacting Gas Mileage
MarketWatch’s calculations were based on each vehicle’s maximum fuel tank capacity, dividing it by ten to determine a ten percent low-fuel marker. The fuel economy ratings of each model were then used to calculate the overall driving range. However, it’s important to note that various factors can impact gas mileage, including weather conditions, driving style, and road conditions.
### Longest Driving Range Vehicles
On the other end of the spectrum, vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 and Ford F-150 offer much longer driving ranges, with the RAV4 providing over 73 miles of low-fuel driving distance. While some models listed in the study aren’t sold in the U.S., the similarities to U.S. configurations can still offer a reasonable estimate of low-fuel driving distances for American consumers.
### Avoiding Regular Driving on Low Fuel
Experts generally advise against driving with the low fuel light illuminated regularly. This practice can lead to damage to crucial engine components such as the fuel pump, filter, and others. When the tank is near empty, debris and sediment at the bottom of the tank can be picked up by the fuel pump, potentially leading to clogs in the filter or overheating of the pump.
### Conclusion
Ultimately, maintaining a proactive approach to refueling and paying attention to your vehicle’s low-fuel warning light can help prevent unexpected breakdowns or damage to your engine. By understanding the driving range of your specific vehicle, you can make informed decisions about when to refuel, ensuring that you always have enough gas to reach your destination safely.