Can I drive normally with a tire pressure of 196 kPa?
2 Answers
A tire pressure of 196 kPa is not suitable for normal driving, and it is recommended to inflate the tires as soon as possible. Low tire pressure increases the contact area between the tire and the ground, causing abnormal temperature rise inside the tire while driving. Additionally, severe deformation of the tire sidewall accelerates the aging of internal steel wires and fabric layers, increasing the risk of a blowout. It also leads to higher fuel consumption and reduces tire lifespan. The relationship between tire pressure and vehicle handling stability: Cornering stiffness is a crucial parameter that determines a vehicle's handling stability. Tires should have high cornering stiffness to ensure good handling stability. Tire pressure is a significant factor affecting cornering stiffness—higher tire pressure results in greater cornering stiffness. However, beyond a certain point, increasing the pressure does not further enhance stiffness. Introduction to standard tire pressure: According to the international GBT2978-2008 standard, the recommended tire pressures for different types of tires are as follows: Standard tires: 2.4-2.5 bar; Reinforced tires: 2.8-2.9 bar; Maximum pressure: should not exceed 3.5 bar.
In my many years of driving, I've encountered all sorts of tire pressure issues. 196 kPa is indeed slightly low for tire pressure, as the general recommended range for cars is around 210 to 240 kPa. The exact value should be checked against your vehicle's manual or the label on the door. Low pressure can increase tire wear, affect fuel efficiency, and even make the car less stable when turning or increase the risk of a blowout. While it's generally okay for short trips to a repair shop, you should definitely avoid long-distance high-speed driving with low pressure—safety first. I recommend finding a service station air pump immediately to inflate the tires to the standard value, and while you're at it, check for any cuts or leaks to prevent accidents.