I ran out of fuel — what do I do?

If you run out of fuel: steer onto the shoulder while the car is still rolling — power steering and brakes get heavy once the engine dies — then switch on your hazards and stop cranking the starter, which pulls air into the fuel system. Open the Wire app and write "out of fuel"; a nearby driver brings fuel or tows you to the nearest station, with the price shown before you accept.

Step by step

  1. Use your last momentum

    The moment the engine stutters, head for the shoulder before it cuts out and the steering and brakes stiffen.

  2. Hazards on, stay put

    Warning lights matter most on a highway. Stay inside with your seatbelt on if you stopped close to the running lane.

  3. Stop cranking

    Turning the starter on an empty tank draws air in and can damage the fuel pump, especially on diesels.

  4. Request help on Wire

    Open Wire, set your location, and state that the tank is empty so the driver arrives with the right fix.

  5. Compare offers and pick one

    Nearby drivers reply — some bring fuel, some tow you to the nearest station. Choose the best offer and track them on the map.

Things to watch

FAQ

Common questions

Can someone bring fuel to me?

Yes. State in your Wire request that the tank is empty. Nearby drivers read the description before they quote, so the ones who can bring enough fuel to reach the nearest station are the ones who send you offers.

Does running completely dry damage the car?

Repeatedly running dry damages the fuel pump, which relies on fuel for cooling, and can draw sediment from the bottom of the tank. A single time rarely causes lasting harm, but don't make a habit of it.

What does fuel delivery or a tow cost?

There is no fixed rate. Each nearby driver quotes based on your location and the distance to the nearest station, and you compare and choose. The price appears before you accept, so there are no surprises.

What to do if…

Need a tow right now?

Request a tow