AN expert mechanic has claimed drivers always make the same mistake by running their petrol tank low – and it could cost them thousands.
Scotty Kilmer has worked with cars for years and has since built up a huge following on social media sites where he offers tips, tricks and hacks for better and safer motoring.
Scotty Kilmer says driving with a small amount of petrol could damage your car’s fuel pumpYouTube/Scotty Kilmer
The experienced mechanis warns you shouldn’t drive when your low fuel light is onYouTube/Scotty Kilmer
In a recent clip on his YouTube page he explained why motorists shouldn’t drive when the low fuel light is on.
Scotty said: “Modern cars have an electric fuel pump inside the gas tank.”
He explained: “Gasoline lubricates it to prevent the pump from burning up.”
But when you’re low on fuel, and you take a corner, you could suck air, rather than fuel, into the pump which Kilmer said could burn the pump out.
The expert warned a new pump could come with a hefty price tag if it had to be replaced.
He said: “So take my advice, pretend that three-quarters empty is actually empty and fill it up when it gets that low.”
Many commentators chipped in with their own advice.
One person wrote: “The gasoline not only lubricates that in-tank electric fuel pump, it also COOLS it.”
While a second said: “I never allow my gas tank to get below 1/2 because I always anticipate an emergency situation occurring when I have to rush somewhere.
“Proper preparation prevents pizz poor performance.
Another added: “Yup so true … I burnt out a fuel pump in my 2013 Jeep Wrangler when it was only a few months old.
“I kept letting it get to when the gas light was on. I learned the hard way but at least the dealer fixed it.”
Someone else posted: “Fuel also keeps the pump cool and when you run it low you risk picking up dirt off the bottom of the tank.”
Elsewhere, driving experts have shared their top tips for saving fuel.
Another clever motorist has revealed a tip on how you can save time and money when you stop to refuel.
Drivers can save at least 3p a litre simply by changing the way they drive.
YouTube/Scotty KilmerDriving with not much fuel could mean air gets into the pump which could burn it out[/caption]
YouTube/Scotty KilmerScotty says drivers should fill up when their tank is three-quarters empty[/caption]