We’ve all had the panic and stress when we are driving on a long journey and the fuel warning light comes on.

Even more so when it starts flashing at an alarming rate.

None of us ever mean to run out of fuel but it does happen.

So what does the warning light really mean, how many miles can you go once it comes on and what are your options when it appears?

According to the RAC, the warning light comes on when you have 10- 15 per cent of fuel left in the tank, however, this all depends on the type of car you drive.

When the fuel warning light starts flashing at an alarming rate, this is your last warning that your vehicle is about to run out of fuel.

How much fuel is left in your tank, when the light comes depends on the car you drive.

Below are some examples from the RAC.

  • Ford Fiesta 37 miles
  • Vauxhall Corsa 36 miles
  • Ford Focus 41 miles
  • Volkswagen Golf 44 miles
  • Nissan Qashqai 43 miles
  • Volkswagen Polo 42 miles
  • Vauxhall Astra 30 miles
  • Audi A3 43 miles
  • Mini Cooper 44 miles
  • BMW 3 Series 44 miles 

Most newer cars do away with the traditional dial-shaped fuel gauge in favour of a digital readout.

These are supposed to give drivers a more accurate representation of exactly how far they can go before running out by displaying the approximate number of miles you can travel until empty.

All cars will be different though, so the best advice is not to chance it.

Make plans to go to the nearest fuel station as soon as the warning light comes on.