Can You Continue Driving with Underinflated Tires?
2 Answers
It is not recommended to continue driving with underinflated tires. Underinflated tires mean the tire pressure has dropped. Here are the solutions for underinflated tires: 1. If the tire is simply leaking air, inflating it will suffice; 2. If the tire is damaged, it should be repaired or replaced promptly; 3. If there is no issue with the tire, it might be a dashboard malfunction, which requires immediate inspection. Additional information: The dangers of underinflated tires include increased deformation of the tire body, which can lead to cracks on the sidewalls and excessive flexing, causing overheating, rubber degradation, fatigue in the fabric layers, and broken cords. It also increases the tire's contact area with the road, accelerating wear on the tire shoulders.
I've been a truck driver for twenty years and seen too many accidents caused by tire issues. Never push your luck with a flat tire, even if it's just slightly deflated. Low pressure causes friction on the sidewalls, and driving just a few kilometers can ruin the entire tire—or worse, it might blow out. Last time my apprentice didn't listen and drove three kilometers to get it fixed, only to end up with a warped rim. The repair cost was enough to buy ten new tires! Modern cars come with tire pressure monitoring systems—if it alerts you, pull over immediately. If you're stranded in the middle of nowhere, keep your speed under 50 km/h and turn on your hazard lights. Towing fees are cheaper than suspension repairs, and your life is worth far more!