Memorial Day is traditionally the start of the summer driving season. This year millions of Americans will find themselves on the highways and freeways heading for the country’s top tourist destinations and looking forward to a fun-filled vacation with family and friends. However, nothing can spoil the fun much worse than a car conking out in the middle of nowhere because it ran out of gas. AAA is expecting that thousands of commuters will be stranded on America’s roads because of low fuel levels or empty tanks.

AAA also warned about the potential hazards of running a vehicle low on gas. Apparently, this is not only an inconvenience; it can also cause damage in your car’s fuel and engine systems. For instance, when running a vehicle that is already extremely low on gasoline, the sediments that collect at the bottom of the fuel tank may begin to clog the fuel pump pickup, fuel filter and fuel injector leading to costly damages.

Many motorists try to lower their expenditures by driving their vehicles until the fuel tank is almost empty. This practice will actually cost you more on replacements and repair later on. AAA recommends that car owners have their vehicles regularly checked as well as always maintain at least a quarter tank of fuel.