If your fuel lever, the skinny part is pointing down, then you are in normal fuel mode. If it is pointing up, then you are in reserve. Something to always remember, the reserve is basically a tube that holds aproximately .6 gallons of fuel. Basically enough to get you to the next gas station. Best thing to do is fill your tank and turn your trip odometer to zero. This way you can get a rough idea of how many miles on average you can go before you have to go to reserve. If you want to really find out how far you can go, have a friend follow you when you are running low and make sure they have a gas can. This way you get an idea on your mileage before you completely run out of gas. Hope this helps.