Fuel prices in Portugal registered a significant increase this Monday, leading many drivers to postpone a trip to the gas station as long as possible, even at the risk of leaving their car on reserve. However, this practice is not recommended as it may cause damage to the vehicle.
The reserve light on the car’s dashboard comes on when the tank reaches between 10% and 15% capacity. Although it is tempting to use fuel as much as possible, experts warn of the risks of this practice. According to SPG Talleres, cited by the Spanish newspaper The Economistfrequently driving on reserve can cause serious mechanical problems.
Fuel contains residues that tend to accumulate at the bottom of the tank. When the level is too low, these impurities can be sucked into the injection system, causing damage to its components. On gasoline vehicles, repairs can cost around 200 euros, plus labor. In diesel cars, changing an injector can cost up to R$350, and if the problem affects the injection pump, the cost can reach up to R$450.
According to , another component that suffers from the continuous use of the reserve is the fuel pump. This part is responsible for transporting the fuel to the engine. When the level in the tank is too low, air bubbles form, forcing the pump to work excessively. This effort significantly reduces its useful life, leading to expensive repairs.
Furthermore, an almost empty tank prevents the fuel filter from working properly, resulting in an increase in consumption and, in the long term, greater expenses for the driver. Therefore, to avoid problems and unnecessary costs, it is advisable to fill the tank before the fuel reaches the reserve.
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