Help finding information on running fuel low

[Kendraelise]

Im trying to find information directly from Ford regarding the potential of damaging your fuel pump from running fuel low, and i cant seem to find anything “official” from ford stating this.

If someone could please point me in the direction it would be very much appreciated. I drive a 2019 explorer Sport if it makes a difference at all.

Also if anyone knows where i can find anything other than vague suggestions from the manufacturer or anecdotal advice regarding using the tow haul feature, id also be extremely thankful.

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the Forum.
Is there a reason you are looking for specific info from Ford? I would think the general info would be the same. will running low on gas damage fuel pump - Google Search
Info on the Tow/Haul mode. using ford's tow/haul mode - Google Search

Peter

 

[onestout]

What are you looking for? It is well known that if pumps run low they run hotter as the bearings aren't cooled and it reduces their life, it's not just a Ford thing it is every vehicle with an in tank pump (there are only a couple pump mfgs. in the world that supply everyone)....which is basically every vehicle on the road. It is not a very common issue anymore but it does happen...I had it happen on a couple vehicles back in the 90's myself, worst thing was is it didn't completely fail, just didn't perform as well and caused drivability issues.

 

[mountaineer2004]

FWIW, I always let the fuel go down to near zero miles before refilling, and my fuel pump was still working fine at 250k when I replaced it simply for preventative maintenance. I wouldn't worry too much about it.

 

[J_C]

Why? Did your fuel pump fail and you feel it is premature and looking for a cause?

They are designed to work fine down to the last drop of fuel, however they do run hotter and could reduce fuel pump life to do it a lot, like if tank is near empty and you keep putting only a few gallons in. Like anything, running hotter reduces lifespan. How much depends on how hot and how long. This is not an Explorer or even Ford specific issue, applies to any vehicle with in-tank pump as onestout mentioned.

I used to run a tank down to near empty just to use up old fuel and never had a problem, though these days I top up no matter the fuel level because I have Kroger fuel points (discount) that expire at the end of each month if I don't use them.

Your statement about tow haul was kind of vague. What purpose do you have in mind? What do you need to know? If hauling significant weight, use it... not that complicated, mostly it changes transmission shift points, delays upshifting and downshifts sooner. Might also lock out overdrive gear.