Index
Is it legal to run out of petrol?
There is no specific fine for running out of petrol in Spain, according to the DGT (Directorate General of Traffic). However, the circumstances surrounding the situation can lead to penalties. The key factor is where and how you stop.
If you run out of fuel and are forced to bring your vehicle to a halt in a dangerous spot, blocking traffic or parking incorrectly, you could indeed face a fine. The amounts vary:
- Improper parking: €200. This is the most common penalty associated with running out of fuel.
- Negligent driving: up to €3,000. This applies to situations where running out of fuel leads to dangerous behaviour on the road, such as driving significantly below the minimum speed limit or causing an accident.
- Obstruction of traffic: variable, depending on the severity of the obstruction.
That's why it's always better to stay ahead of the situation and keep enough fuel in your vehicle to reach the next service station, avoiding any potential infringement.
What should I do if I've run out of petrol and the car won't start?
If you find yourself in this situation and want to avoid a fine, the first thing to do is stay calm and assess things safely.
- Identify the cause: Make sure you've actually run out of petrol and that there isn't another mechanical issue at play. Check the fuel gauge and listen for the sound of the fuel pump when you try to start the engine.
- Try to start the car: If you think there's still a little fuel left, give it a go, but don't force it. A few attempts are enough, and you don't want to drain the battery in the process.
- Safety precautions: Put on your hi-visibility vest and set up your emergency triangles to warn other drivers. If you already have the new V16 hazard pre-warning light, use that instead of the triangles. Call roadside assistance or the police if you're in a dangerous situation.
How can I avoid running out of petrol?
The best way to avoid a fine and the stress that comes with it is prevention. Here are some practical tips to make sure you never get stranded on the road:
- Know your consumption: Get familiar with your car's fuel consumption and plan your refuelling stops accordingly. Keep in mind that consumption can vary depending on road type, speed, driving style and vehicle load.
- Watch the fuel gauge: Don't ignore the low fuel warning light. As soon as it comes on, start looking for a service station.
- Plan your stops: On longer journeys, plan your refuelling stops in advance. Use mobile apps or online maps to find stations along your route and check their opening hours.
Warning signs that you're running low on fuel
Beyond the obvious warning light, keep an eye out for these symptoms:
- The engine starts misfiring or juddering, particularly when going uphill or accelerating.
- The car suddenly loses power.
- The fuel gauge reads "E" or "empty", and the needle moves erratically.
Options for dealing with an empty tank
If you've run out of petrol, there are several ways to handle it, depending on your situation and the resources available to you:
Using a fuel jerry can: how does it work?
If you have a fuel jerry can in the boot, you can top up the tank and get back on your way. Use a funnel to avoid spills and handle the fuel carefully, away from any ignition sources. Bear in mind that carrying petrol in a non-approved container is dangerous and prohibited by law.
Calling a tow truck or roadside assistance
If you don't have fuel to hand, the safest option is to call a tow truck or your roadside assistance service. They will either bring you fuel or tow your vehicle to the nearest service station. This is a quick, safe solution, especially if you're in a hazardous location or you're not confident dealing with it yourself.
Emergency alternatives: where to find petrol near you
If you're not covered by a roadside assistance policy, try using a mobile app, such as the Moeve app, or ask locals to find the nearest petrol station. If you need to walk there, take an approved container to transport the fuel safely. At our Moeve Service Stations, you can pick up approved jerry cans and pouches to make the journey back as safe as possible.
Could running out of petrol cause other damage?
Beyond the potential fine, running out of fuel can have other consequences for your vehicle:
- Engine damage: The engine can suffer if it tries to run without fuel, particularly in diesel vehicles.
- Injection system: The fuel pump may draw in impurities from the bottom of the tank, causing damage to the injection system.
For all these reasons, it's important not to push the reserve too far and to refuel regularly.
Find out more
For more information on the regulations relating to this topic, you can consult Article 115 of the General Traffic Regulations (Royal Decree 1428/2003): https://www.boe.es/buscar/pdf/2003/BOE-A-2003-23514-consolidado.pdf
