I have a 1990 vw cabriolet that won't start. It ran out of gas, I put 5 gallons in, turns over but... it won't start. I tested both fuel pumps for voltage and it's there, I can feel and hear them click but no fuel to the injectors. I can start it by spraying starting fluid in the air cleaner. Could it be as simple as the fuel filter??? Oh I also changed the wires and plugs.

You cooked the fuel pump. never drive under 1/4 tank of gas. the pump sits in the fuel to cool it. no fuel = no cooling. your lucky the pump is easy to get to in your car. lift up carpet in trunk and you will see a black circle plate take out the screws and under plate is the pump. unscrew the big black ring and pull it out. dont forget to unhook the lines and wires. most cars you need to remove fuel tank to do this.

When u turn the ignition on the fuel pump should make a hum sound until the fuel system is primed then it will stop until the engine is turning over to run.If u ran it out of gas the pump mybe burn't up The liquid (gas) in the tank keeps the pump cool.

When it ran out of fuel there may have been damage to the fuel lines. I would suggest getting it looked at by a mechanic to be safe