If you’ve ever run out of fuel in your diesel vehicle, then you know how difficult it can be to get it running again. It may seem like an impossible task, but with the right knowledge and the right tools, it can be done. In this article, we’ll explain the steps you need to take to start a diesel after running out of fuel, and what you need to do to prevent it from happening again.
What Causes a Diesel Vehicle to Run Out of Fuel?
There are several reasons why a diesel vehicle may run out of fuel. The most common cause is simply forgetting to refuel, but there are other factors at play too. If your diesel vehicle has a fuel tank that is too small, or if the fuel pump is faulty, it may fail to deliver enough fuel to the engine. If the fuel filter is blocked, fuel won’t be able to reach the engine either. Whatever the cause, if your diesel vehicle runs out of fuel it can be a stressful and expensive experience.
Steps to Start a Diesel After Running Out of Fuel
When you’ve run out of fuel in your diesel vehicle, the first thing you should do is to get some fuel. You can either buy it from a petrol station, or you can borrow some from a friend or family member. Once you’ve got some fuel, you’ll need to get it into the fuel tank. To do this, you’ll need a siphon pump or a fuel transfer pump.
Once you’ve got the fuel in the tank, you’ll need to prime the fuel system. This means that you’ll need to manually pump the fuel from the tank to the fuel filter. You can use a hand pump, or you can use an electric fuel pump. Once the fuel filter is primed, you should be able to start the diesel engine.
If the diesel engine still won’t start, then you may need to check the fuel lines. Check that there are no leaks or blockages in the fuel lines, and if there are, then repair them as soon as possible. You may also need to check the fuel injectors to make sure that they are working properly. If they are blocked or damaged, then replace them.
Once you’ve checked the fuel lines and the fuel injectors, then you should be able to start the diesel engine. If the engine still won’t start, then you may need to get a professional to take a look at it.
Preventing Your Diesel Vehicle from Running Out of Fuel
The best way to prevent your diesel vehicle from running out of fuel is to make sure that you always have enough fuel in the tank. This means that you should always be aware of how much fuel you have left, and you should never let the fuel tank get too low. If you can, try to keep at least a quarter of a tank of fuel in your diesel vehicle at all times.
It’s also a good idea to check the fuel lines and fuel injectors regularly. This will help to ensure that they are in good condition and that there are no blockages or leaks. It’s also a good idea to check the fuel filter regularly and to replace it if it is blocked or damaged.
Finally, if you’re going on a long journey, make sure that you have enough fuel for the entire journey. It’s always best to err on the side of caution, as running out of fuel in a diesel vehicle can be a stressful and expensive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I run out of fuel in my diesel vehicle?
If you run out of fuel in your diesel vehicle, then you will need to get some fuel and manually prime the fuel system before the engine will start. If the engine still won’t start, then you may need to check the fuel lines and the fuel injectors.
Can I borrow fuel from a friend or family member?
Yes, you can borrow fuel from a friend or family member if you run out of fuel in your diesel vehicle. However, make sure that they have the same type of fuel that your vehicle requires.
How can I prevent my diesel vehicle from running out of fuel?
The best way to prevent your diesel vehicle from running out of fuel is to always be aware of how much fuel you have left and to never let the fuel tank get too low. You should also check the fuel lines and fuel injectors regularly, and replace the fuel filter if it is blocked or damaged.
What should I do if my diesel vehicle won’t start?
If your diesel vehicle won’t start after running out of fuel, then you may need to check the fuel lines and fuel injectors. If they are blocked or damaged, then you will need to repair or replace them. If the engine still won’t start, then you may need to get a professional to take a look at it.
Can I use an electric fuel pump to prime my diesel vehicle?
Yes, you can use an electric fuel pump to prime your diesel vehicle. However, make sure that the fuel pump is in good working order before using it.
What should I do if my fuel filter is blocked?
If your fuel filter is blocked, then you will need to replace it. Make sure that you use a fuel filter that is compatible with your diesel vehicle.
What type of fuel should I use in my diesel vehicle?
You should use the type of fuel that is recommended for your diesel vehicle. Check your owner’s manual for more information.
How often should I check the fuel lines and fuel injectors?
It’s a good idea to check the fuel lines and fuel injectors every few months. This will help to ensure that they are in good condition and that there are no blockages or leaks.
What should I do if I don’t have enough fuel for a long journey?
If you don’t have enough fuel for a long journey, then you should either fill up your tank or arrange for someone to bring you some fuel. It’s always best to err on the side of caution, as running out of fuel in a diesel vehicle can be a stressful and expensive experience.