* Fuel Pump Location: The fuel pump is often located in the fuel tank. When the fuel level gets very low, the pump can start drawing air instead of fuel. This air gets mixed with the fuel causing the engine to run poorly, misfire, and "chug."
* Sediment and Debris: Low fuel levels can also expose the fuel pump to more sediment or debris that has settled at the bottom of the tank. This can further clog the fuel filter or the pump itself, leading to inconsistent fuel delivery and chugging.
* Fuel Filter Contamination: While not directly related to *low* fuel, consistently running on low fuel can exacerbate the problem of a clogged or dirty fuel filter. A dirty fuel filter can struggle to supply enough fuel even when the tank is full, but the problem is amplified when the fuel level is low.
It's important to avoid running your car on very low fuel, as doing so can damage the fuel pump and other components over time. Once you've refueled, the chugging should stop, but if it continues, you should have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic. There might be additional underlying issues beyond just low fuel.
