Tucson residents know that summer isn't just a season; it's an endurance test for your vehicle. While most people associate dead batteries with heat, running out of fuel in the Arizona desert is a primary reason drivers find themselves stranded in dangerous conditions. When the mercury rises on Valencia Road or Gates Pass, sitting in a car without fuel for A/C can quickly lead to an emergency.
WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
- The "Low Fuel" Chime: Modern cars typically trigger this with 2-3 gallons left. In Tucson traffic, that might only be 20-30 minutes of idling.
- Engine Hesitation: If your vehicle stutters or loses power while accelerating on I-10, your fuel pump is likely sucking air.
- Range Inaccuracy: High heat can affect fuel sensor readings. Never trust a digital "Miles to Empty" reading below 20 miles.
- The Sputter-Stop: If your car dies and won't restart after a period of rough idling, you are likely out of gas.
- The Remote Threat: On roads like Ajo Way, gas stations are miles apart. If you hit the quarter-tank mark, find fuel immediately.
To keep your fuel system healthy, avoid running your tank to empty regularly. In the desert heat, your fuel actually acts as a coolant for the fuel pump. Consistently running on low fuel can cause the pump to overheat and fail prematurely, leading to an expensive repair bill.