Can You Continue Driving When the Tire Pressure Warning Light Is On?
2 Answers
Tire pressure warning light is on, you should not continue driving. The tire pressure warning light is a yellow indicator, featuring an irregular circle without a seal at the top and four small spikes at the bottom, with an exclamation mark inside. The illumination of the tire pressure monitoring indicator signifies abnormal tire pressure. Abnormal tire pressure is generally caused by one of the following three reasons: Abnormal tire pressure: The system typically triggers an alert when the pressure is below 1.8 bar or exceeds 3.0 bar. In such cases, it is necessary to inspect the tires and adjust the pressure. Tire pressure monitoring not reset: After inflating the tires, if the tire pressure monitoring system is not reset in time, it will continue to display the previously recorded data, causing the tire pressure warning light to stay on. Simply performing a tire pressure reset will resolve this issue. Damaged tire pressure sensor: The tire pressure sensor, which monitors tire pressure, is installed inside the tire and connected to the tire inflation valve. If the sensor is damaged due to impact while driving, it can also cause the tire pressure warning light to illuminate. In case of sensor damage, the only solution is to replace it with a new component.
As a taxi driver with 15 years of experience, the tire pressure warning light requires specific attention. In cases of slow leaks, you might manage to drive 3-5 kilometers to a repair shop, but keep speed below 40 km/h. If the steering pulls noticeably, stop immediately. Summer is especially risky—overheated tires may blow out. Once my warning light came on with passengers; I found a large screw in the right rear tire with a completely flat sidewall. In such cases, don't attempt to drive—even moving the car is risky. Modern cars display individual tire pressures—check which tire is low before deciding. If you must move the car, use hazard lights. Keeping an air pump in the trunk for emergencies is highly effective.
