Have you ever run out of gas? We're talking completely run out - like not coasting into the gas station on the last fumes of fuel, but where you're stuck on the side of the road with a dead car because there isn't a drop of gas left in the tank. Spoiler alert - not a fun situation. However, it happens from time to time whether you overestimate your distance, have a broken gas gauge, or just simply forget to fill up the tank because let's be real, life happens.
So what should you do if you find yourself in this stressful and potentially unsafe situation? Here are a few tips from the experts at Toyota of Clermont.
Four signs your car is about to run out of gas
First, know what signs to look out for when you're running out of gas. These include:
- Engine sputtering
- A loss of power - when you press on the accelerator, nothing happens
- Surging or sudden, jerky bursts of acceleration
- Backfire noises coming from your tailpipe
Steps to take if your Clermont Toyota runs out of gas
Next, know how to react. Here are the steps to take if your car runs out of gas:
Pull over to a safe spot on the side of the road. If you catch the signs that your car is about to run out of gas in time, pull off the road so you're out of the way of traffic. Look for a flat spot that's well-lit and has enough space for you to be far away from passing cars. Once you've parked, put on your emergency brake and your hazard lights so it's easy for other drivers to see your Clermont Toyota.
Decide what to do. Are you going to call someone to bring you gas, or are you going to have your vehicle towed to the nearest gas station? Figure out what's most cost-effective and time-effective for you.
Figure out exactly where you are. This is critical if you're going to call for help. If you're calling AAA or some other towing service to help you out, you'll have to know where exactly you are - crossroads, highway exits, addresses on businesses, etc. will all help them find you quickly. If you're calling a friend to help you, you can use location services on your phone to share your exact location with them.
Call for help. Who are you going to call for help? You can call AAA if you're a member, and sometimes your insurance policy has a free tow or roadside assistance included in it. There are also fuel delivery services like Mach1 that can bring gas straight to you. Another option is to call friends or family members and ask them to bring a can of gas to you so you can fill up and be on your way.
Put on your walking shoes. Last resort, you can start walking. However, use this as a LAST resort as walking along the road isn't always safe, especially if you're on the highway. Use sidewalks whenever possible and if you can't, stay as far away from traffic as you can.
Have questions or need help with your gas gauge or fuel efficiency? Toyota of Clermont can help! Call us today at (352) 404-7001 or stop by and see us at 16851 State Road 50. We're just off the Florida Turnpike!
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