Anyone else notice that the "Need Gas" indicator comes on very early? Mine came on today, I filled up, and it took less than 12 gallons. Isn't it a 15.9 gallon tank? I guess they're just giving you plenty of notice...

Mine comes on after exactly 12 gallons sometimes earlier if I am on a slope. The reserve seems to have 3 gallons. My dakota was the same.

Personally, I like having 3 gallons left when the light comes on. I tend to procrastinate when it comes to filling up. :oops:

I try to never let my gas get below 1/2 a tank, that way, if an earthquake or nuclear bomb should take out the electricity and gas stations near the epicenter should not work, I can drive farther away and get gas in outlying regions not effected by quakes. Or Nukes. Maybe.

Evidently running out of gas can create some real problems with modern car motors. This is even mentioned in the Element's owner's manual. I imagine that this warning light, turning on with 3 gallons left, is just another safty measure, and way of protecting the car and its vitals.

[quote:56771af958="Ger Brassfield"]I try to never let my gas get below 1/2 a tank, that way, if an earthquake or nuclear bomb should take out the electricity and gas stations near the epicenter should not work, I can drive farther away and get gas in outlying regions not effected by quakes. Or Nukes. Maybe.[/quote:56771af958]

Please don't be offended by my the following question - I don't know how to ask it in a more tactful manner...

Are you honestly living in so much fear of disaster that you try not to let your gas tank get below half empty?

I guess I'm just shocked by this and want to understand why you feel this is necessary. In fact, my thesis is related to this topic - I'm exploring the impact that the broadcast media (television, news, movies, etc.) has had on American society.