Has anyone tested how accurate the 50 miles to empty warning really is ?

 

most i did was 45

 

lol my truck burns gas way too fast, by the time it gets to 1/8th i make sure I get gas or itll be empty soon

 

In general I have found the "Low Fuel" warning on late model fords to be very conservative, it usually indicates I have around 5 gallons remaining on my truck. Next time the "Low Fuel" warning comes on, fill up right away and compare how many gallons the pump reads compared to what the owners manual says for maximum gas tank size (which varies by bodystyle). I wouldn't suggest running until you have a fraction of a gallon left, but it at least gives you an idea of how much time until you have to find a gas station. Actual range will obviously depend on gallons remaining and mpg.

 

I just had mine come on this weekend. I have a 36 gallon tank and only put it 29, so that's at least 70 miles, probably closer to 100.

 

I've pushed My 04 ext cab long bed 4X4 a good 40 miles after the fuel light came on. I think I was burning fumes ! It gets 10 mpg at best !

 

Fuel pumps use the fuel as a cooling agent. Running a tank dry risks damaging your fuel pump. These pumps are very pricey and the labor to replace runs about 6 hours.
In other words, I wouldn't let my tank get below 1/8 in any situation. But if anyone finds out the answer, let us know if the pump survives the experience.

 

Running a tank dry and getting below 1/8 tank aren't really the same thing at all... As previously stated, around 5 gallons (maybe more depending on gas tank size) are remaining when the "Low Fuel" message is shown. For me, that happens below 1/8 tank. Of course, there is no harm done by filling up before you need to, although your range would be reduced and you would visit a gas station a little more often.

 

yea it cools it internally tho. ive ran mine till 0 and no sputtering.

 

Yesterday, my Low Fuel warning came on while driving to work. I had about 15 miles to go and figured I would easily make it as I am getting 18 to 19 mpg on the highway with my 4.2 liter V6. No problem.

After work, I stopped for gas and put 33.139 gallons in the 33 gallon tank. So, maybe the pump was not accurate, or I have an expandable fuel cell?? But, I will stop for gas ASAP if my Low Fuel warning comes on again.