What to Do When Your Car Run Out of Gas
So, your car just sputtered to a stop, and now you’re stuck thinking, “I ran out of gas! Now what do I do?” Don’t panic. You’re not the only driver to encounter this frustrating situation. Whether you’re stranded on the highway during rush hour traffic, in the driveway, or stranded in the middle of a remote country road, staying calm and taking the appropriate steps will get you back on your way shortly.
With decades of experience helping drivers in all types of vehicular predicaments, we’ve aided countless motorists who found themselves with empty tanks. From a family of five running out of fuel while ascending a steep mountain pass to a lone driver whose needle was stubbornly pointing to “E” in the thick of bumper-to-bumper city commotion, no scenario has been too challenging. Within these pages lies expert counsel intended to relieve the stresses of a depleted fuel supply.
Let’s explore remedies together and perhaps enjoy a lighthearted moment or two along our journey. Stay hopeful. Solutions are forthcoming. Read on!
Turn on Your Hazard Lights and Pull Over
The moment your gas is running out and your engine starts acting up (maybe it jerks, sputters, or slows), your top priority is safety. Immediately flip on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If possible, steer your car to the right shoulder or another safe area away from traffic.
Don’t wait until your vehicle completely loses power. A car that ran out of gas may lose power steering and braking assistance, making it harder to control. So act fast. If you’re stuck on a highway or freeway, pull over as far as you can, and if it’s nighttime, keep those hazard lights flashing bright.
It’s easy to forget this step when you’re thinking, “My car is out of gas, now what?” But your safety and visibility matter most.
Do You Have Roadside Assistance?
Now is the ideal moment to utilize that roadside assistance service you (optimally) enrolled in. Many drivers fail to comprehend that the vast majority of roadside assistance packages (like those from auto carriers, AAA, and modern providers similar to DriveSmart) propose fuel transportation straight to your site. Indeed, that signifies gas brought to your stranded automobile.
Simply contact the roadside assistance hotline, share your coordinates, and they’ll dispatch a vehicle with adequate fuel to get you to the nearest station. It’s an absolute life-saver if you’ve run out of gas with no gas can, particularly if you’re out of fuel on the side of the road or caught in site visitors with nowhere to wander.
If you’re questioning yourself, “What do I do if I run out of gas and don’t have roadside assistance?”—don’t be concerned. There are still quite a few backup possibilities. But if you’re reading this before running out of fuel, now might be a good moment to join a program like DriveSmart’s.
Call a Friend
Let’s say you don’t have roadside assistance, and you’re stranded thinking, “Who can I call if I run out of gas?” Your next best option? Phone a friend.
If you’ve got someone nearby who can help, ask them to bring you a gas can with at least a gallon or two. That’ll get you back on the road and to the nearest gas station. Just be sure they bring the right fuel (regular, premium, diesel—know what your car takes!).
Can you call 911 if you run out of gas? Technically, yes. But only in an emergency, like if you’re stuck in a dangerous area or blocking traffic. Police might assist with safety or contact a tow truck, but they generally don’t deliver gas.
So if you’re not in danger, your best bet is a friend, or a fuel delivery service.
Find the Nearest Gas Station
You’ve got a few miles of walking in your future. If you’re safe and physically able, and your vehicle is secure, walking to the nearest gas station could be the fastest fix. Google Maps or Waze can show you where to go.
If you don’t have a gas can, you’ll need to buy one (most gas stations sell them), and you may even need to ask for help on how to safely fill and transport it.
Now, if you’re out of gas and have no money. This can be tricky. Some gas stations may let you leave your ID and return with payment, or you might need to call someone to pay for your fuel. DriveSmart members get access to services that help in financial crunch situations too.
And let’s be real—it’s never fun hauling a gas can in the rain or blazing heat, but it’s a rite of passage in the world of driving. Just stay alert, wear visible clothing if it’s dark, and keep your phone charged.
What to Do If You Run Out of Gas in a Remote Area
Here’s where things get serious. You ran out of gas in the middle of nowhere. No gas station in sight. Little to no signal. No other cars on the road. What do you do?
- Stay With Your Car – Your vehicle is more visible to rescue crews and much safer than walking miles alone.
- Use Emergency Signals – Put up a reflective triangle, use your hazard lights (as long as the battery lasts), or even hang a white cloth out the window as a distress signal.
- Conserve Phone Battery – Use your phone only for essential calls or emergency services.
- Check for Roadside Assistance Options – Even with limited service, you might be able to text or use satellite-based options. DriveSmart, for example, uses tech-forward tools to connect drivers even when signal is low.
If you have no service and no help, eventually a fellow driver or highway patrol might come by. Stay calm, hydrated, and protected from the elements.
This is one of those moments when being prepared makes all the difference. Always keep water, snacks, and a backup battery charger in your car. Trust me on that one.
Plan Ahead Before Your Car Runs Out of Gas
Let’s talk prevention. Because while I love helping you when you’re thinking, “I ran out of gas, what do I do now?”, I’d rather you avoid it altogether. Maximize your gas tank as best you can.
Tips to Prevent Running Out of Gas:
- Refuel When You’re at 1/4 Tank – Don’t wait for the light. Gas stations aren’t always right around the corner.
- Know Your Car’s Range – Every vehicle behaves differently when the fuel gauge hits “E.” Learn how far yours can really go.
- Track Fuel Economy – If your car is burning gas too fast, it could mean dirty fuel injectors, poor tire pressure, or other maintenance issues.
- Use Apps – Tools like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest fuel near you, helping your wallet and your planning.
- Keep a Gas Can in Your Trunk – Just don’t store it full for safety reasons.
If your car runs out of gas regularly, it might be time for a checkup. And if you’re just forgetful. Set a reminder on your phone. You’ll thank yourself later.
What Happens When You Run Out of Gas?
Wondering what happens if you run out of gas while driving? It’s not great—but it’s manageable. Here’s what to expect:
- Loss of Power – First the engine may sputter, then power steering and brakes start to fade.
- Dashboard Lights – Your check engine or battery light may flash on.
- Silence – The car will coast until it stops.
Is it bad for your car to run out of gas? Yes. Repeatedly running out can damage your fuel pump, clog filters, and wear out your engine components. So yeah… Don’t make it a habit.
When your car runs out of gas on the highway, it becomes a hazard. Always move quickly and calmly to avoid further danger.
Running Out of Gas Isn’t the End of the Road
Let’s admit the honest truth: most people have faced an “empty tank” time, or know someone who has. Whether it’s on a busy freeway, at home in the driveway, or off in the wilderness somewhere remote, being ready and aware of what actions to take in case you run out of fuel can make a big difference.
If you’re reading this while thinking to yourself, “I’m out of gas—what do I do now?”—start by turning on your vehicle’s hazard lights to warn others, get yourself and any passengers to a safe place away from traffic, and contact roadside assistance right away.
Those who have yet to come across running on fumes—use this guide to get ahead of the curve. Being informed about what actions to take for an out-of-gas predicament can give peace of mind whether you’re traveling near home or farther away in an unfamiliar location. Staying prepared means having supplies like extra gasoline stored in your vehicle just in case, as well as contacts ready to assist at a moment’s notice.
How DriveSmart Can Help Drivers Who Run Out of Gas
DriveSmart isn’t merely another roadside aid firm. We provide a comprehensive solution for motorists seeking peace of mind no matter where the road takes them. Whether stranded with no fuel, needing a tow, or wanting protection against unexpected repairs, DriveSmart has your back.
Our members receive: fuel delivery service 24/7 should they run out of gas; swift connection to nearby roadside professionals; exclusive offers and vehicle protection plans; and personalized driving assistance anytime it’s required.
So the next time you wonder, “What do I do if I run out of gas with no money left?” or “Who can I call if I’m stranded on the highway without any fuel?”, DriveSmart is the answer. We’ve got you covered no matter the road’s unforeseen obstacles. DriveSmart – protection for peaceful driving.
Ready to Never Worry About Running Out of Gas Again?
Join DriveSmart today and unlock access to our latest offers, personalized assistance, and peace of mind every time you hit the road. Don’t wait until your gas runs out—be prepared, protected, and powered up with DriveSmart.
