Can You Drive with 120 kPa Tire Pressure?
4 Answers
Tire pressure of 120 kPa is drivable, but the vehicle can only sustain it for 30-50 km. You should replace the tire or refill the air as soon as possible. Hazards of low tire pressure: Increased friction coefficient with the road surface, leading to higher fuel consumption; Causes heavy steering and easy deviation, which are factors detrimental to driving safety; Increases movement in various parts of the tire, causing abnormal heating due to excessive rolling; Reduces the function of the cord and rubber, leading to delamination or cord breakage and excessive friction between the tire and rim, resulting in damage to the bead area and abnormal wear; Multiplies the friction between the tire and the ground, causing a sharp rise in tire temperature, softening the tire, and drastically reducing its strength. High-speed driving may lead to a blowout; Increases tire body deformation, making the tire side prone to cracking, while generating flexing motion, leading to excessive heating, accelerating rubber aging, cord fatigue, and breakage, and increasing the tire's contact area, accelerating shoulder wear. Methods to address insufficient tire pressure: If no damage is visible, simply inflate to normal tire pressure and reset the tire pressure system; If the tire is found to be punctured during inspection, drive to a tire shop promptly for repair and then reinflate; If the tire pressure warning reappears after some time of inflation but there is no puncture, it may be due to air leakage caused by rim deformation. It is recommended to check the rim and replace it.
With decades of driving experience, I fully understand the importance of tire pressure. 120 kPa is absolutely too low, as the standard for most cars is around 210 to 250 kPa. If you force yourself to drive with such low pressure, the tires will deform severely, tread wear will accelerate, and handling will become sluggish. At high speeds, heat buildup can easily lead to a blowout, which is extremely dangerous. Make it a habit to check tire pressure with a gauge when the car is cold, ideally once a week. I remember one time I neglected it and felt the car wobbling at just 150 kPa—I immediately topped up the air. Safety first—never risk driving with low pressure. Find the nearest repair shop to inflate the tires to the recommended level. Low pressure also wastes fuel, significantly increasing costs.
When chatting about cars with friends, we always emphasize details. A tire pressure of 120 kPa is definitely not acceptable! The normal range should start from 210 kPa. Low pressure causes excessive tire deformation, increases rolling resistance, and fuel consumption rises sharply. It also makes steering heavier and worsens handling. I've personally tested that braking lag becomes noticeably worse with insufficient tire pressure. Hurry to the gas station to inflate your tires, and avoid long-distance driving to prevent blowouts. By the way, regular tire pressure checks can save fuel and protect your tires—simple yet practical.
With kids in the car, I never take risks. 120 kPa tire pressure is way too low - normal should be above 210. Low pressure increases braking distance and makes hydroplaning more likely in rain, doubling the danger. I check tire pressure weekly using a simple gauge when tires are cold. Pump them up immediately for safety.
