How far can I drive when my petrol warning light comes on in my car?

DESPITE it potentially causing damage to the engine, some motorists choose to carry on driving for a while after the low fuel warning light comes on.

Although you can travel around 50 miles further in a Ford, running on fumes could cost you a lot more than a tank of fuel.

Causing an obstruction with a car that's out of fuel is punishable by three to nine points and an unlimited fine, under the careless and inconsiderate driving penalty.

You may also have to pay for the cost of having your vehicle recovered from the roadside.

Completely running out of petrol or diesel can also cause the fuel pump in your car to run dry - resulting in a visit to the garage and a bill of hundreds of pounds.

Further to that, there are a number of variables that have to be accounted for when considering the mileage left on a near-empty tank.

For example, Volkswagen cars will indicate low fuel when around a gallon – or 4.5 litres – of fuel is left – this differs per manufacturer.

Traffic is another variable – fuel will last longer on a motorway travelling at a set speed, as opposed to in stop-start conditions.

The number and weight of passengers will also distort the mileage, as well as the contents of a boot or roof boxes and racks.

Tyre pressure is another factor to consider too amongst many other inconsistencies.

The most accurate mileage can be estimated by your car’s trip computer - if it has one - but even this should be given at least a five-per-cent leeway and shouldn’t be completely relied on.

In fact, most car makers told Sun Motors it’s impossible to put a number on the range left on a car once the low fuel warning light appears.

Therefore, drivers should always endeavour to re-fuel as soon as the warning light comes on, if not, before.