Can You Continue Driving with Overinflated Tires?
3 Answers
Tires with excessive pressure should not be driven on; immediate inspection and pressure adjustment are required. According to the international GBT2978-2008 standard, the recommended tire pressures are as follows: Standard tires: 2.4-2.5bar; Reinforced tires: 2.8-2.9bar; Maximum pressure: should not exceed 3.5bar. Hazards of overinflated tires: Reduced tire friction and adhesion, affecting braking performance; Causes steering wheel vibration and deviation, reducing driving comfort; Accelerates uneven wear on the central tread pattern, shortening tire lifespan; Increases vehicle vibration, indirectly affecting the lifespan of other components; Excessive stretching of tire cords reduces elasticity, increasing the load on the vehicle during driving; Decreased puncture resistance. Sharp objects like nails or glass can easily penetrate the tire, leading to internal cracks, blowouts, or even tire bursts.
Last week, I accidentally overinflated my tires, and now the car feels bouncy, the steering is light, traction has decreased, and it tends to skid when cornering. Overinflated tires wear out faster in the center, shortening their lifespan, and increase the risk of a blowout, especially on hot days or during highway driving when tire temperature and pressure rise dangerously. If the pressure is only slightly high—say, within 5 psi of the recommended value—you can drive slowly to a gas station to release some air, but avoid speeding or sudden braking. If the pressure is significantly higher, like over 10 psi above the recommended level, don’t risk driving further—find a safe spot to stop and check immediately. It’s wise to carry a tire pressure gauge and maintain the recommended values listed on the door frame sticker for both safety and tire longevity.
As a seasoned worker in an auto repair shop, I've dealt with numerous cases of overinflated tires. This issue reduces the tire's contact patch with the road, accelerates wear on the central tread, impairs braking performance, and decreases handling stability. Worst of all, it significantly increases the risk of a blowout, especially during high-speed summer driving. Checking tire pressure is simple: use a tire pressure gauge to measure it, and if it's above the recommended value, release some air to adjust. If the tire pressure warning light comes on or you notice abnormal vibrations or noises, don't push through—pull over immediately to address the issue. Safety first: make it a habit to check your tire pressure every two weeks to avoid such troubles.
