Miles Per Tank Calculator
Find how far you can drive on a full tank from your fuel economy and tank size — plus a safe range that keeps a reserve.
How it works
Range = tank capacity × mpg · Safe range = tank × (1 − reserve%) × mpg · Cost to fill = tank × price
Range on a tank is simply how many gallons you carry times how many miles each gallon covers. The low-fuel light typically comes on with 10–15% of the tank left, so a sensible "safe range" leaves a buffer rather than running to empty — running very low can draw sediment into the fuel pump and leave no margin for closed or distant stations. City driving lowers MPG and range, while steady highway cruising extends both.
Worked example
A 14-gallon tank at 30 mpg has a full range of 14 × 30 = 420 miles. Keeping a 10% reserve leaves 12.6 usable gallons, or about 378 miles of comfortable range. At $3.50 a gallon, a fill costs around $49.
Frequently asked questions
How far can I drive after the low-fuel light comes on?
Most cars trigger the light with roughly 1.5–2.5 gallons remaining, good for another 40–70 miles depending on economy. It is a warning, not a precise gauge, so treat it as "fill up soon," especially in remote areas where the next station may be far off.
Is it bad to run the tank near empty?
Occasionally is fine, but habitually running very low can overheat the electric fuel pump (which the fuel helps cool) and stir up any sediment at the bottom of the tank. Keeping at least a quarter tank is a common rule to protect the pump and your margin.
Why is my real range shorter than this?
The estimate uses your average MPG; cold weather, short trips, city traffic, aggressive driving, roof racks and heavy loads all lower economy. Use your actual observed MPG from recent fill-ups for the most realistic range.
Related calculators
Educational estimate — real-world figures vary with load, temperature, traction, tuning and measurement method.