The first signs
Before it stops, the engine usually loses power and starts to jerk. If the low fuel light has been on for a while, do not gamble on reaching the next station. Pull over while the car is still moving.
How to stop safely
- Indicate and pull onto the hard shoulder or the verge while the car still has momentum.
- Stop as far to the right as you can.
- Turn on the hazard lights and put on the reflective vest.
- Place the warning triangle behind the car.
- Get out on the right-hand side and stand behind the crash barrier.
If you are somewhere dangerous, such as a tunnel or a bend with no verge, call 112 first.
What not to do
- Do not push the car along the motorway or the pass.
- Do not cross the carriageway on foot to reach a petrol station.
- Do not stay in the car or between the car and the traffic.
- Do not flag down random cars to ask for fuel.
Diesel or petrol: is there a difference?
With petrol cars a few litres are usually enough to get going. Diesel engines sometimes do not start straight away after running completely dry, because air gets into the fuel system. Tell us the car model when you call so we can come prepared.
How to get fuel delivered
Call us or send your location on WhatsApp and tell us what fuel you need. We come out 24/7, including on the Republic Pass and the Shipka Pass, and put in enough to reach the nearest petrol station safely. If the car still will not go, we can tow it to a garage.
How to avoid it next time
- Fill up when the needle reaches a quarter, especially before a pass or a long drive.
- Do not rely fully on the range shown on the dashboard. It drops faster uphill and in the cold.
- Before crossing the Balkan mountains, check where the next petrol station is.
