Can You Drive with Abnormal Tire Pressure?
3 Answers
Tire pressure abnormality is not recommended for continued driving. Below are relevant introductions about tire pressure: Low Pressure: Low pressure increases tire body deformation, easily causing cracks on the tire side, while generating flexing motion, leading to excessive heat, promoting rubber aging, fatigue of the cord ply, and cord breakage. It also increases the tire's contact area, accelerating shoulder wear. High Pressure: High pressure causes excessive extension and deformation of the tire cords, reducing the tire body's elasticity, increasing the load on the car during driving. If impacted, it may cause internal cracks and blowouts. High pressure also accelerates tread wear and reduces puncture resistance.
Last time while driving, I encountered a tire pressure warning light, which gave me a start. I immediately pulled over to check. Never ignore abnormal tire pressure—when it's too low, the tire deforms severely, increasing contact area and friction heat, which can lead to a blowout, especially dangerous at high speeds. If the pressure is too high, traction decreases, making the car prone to skidding in rainy conditions and potentially causing accidents. I generally recommend slowing down immediately and stopping in a safe area, then using a portable air pump to check and adjust the pressure or heading to a repair shop for inspection. The correct pressure is usually labeled on the door frame, and measuring it when the tires are cold is most accurate. Ignoring this issue can lead to uneven tire wear, a spike in fuel consumption, or even shortened tire lifespan. Safety must always come first.
I frequently drive long distances and have deep feelings about tire pressure issues. When the pressure warning light comes on, theoretically you can drive a short distance, but you must be extremely careful, moving at a low speed of around 20 km/h to a safe location or repair shop. With significant pressure deviation, the car may feel floaty, vibrate excessively, and have longer emergency steering or braking distances, increasing the risk of losing control. I make it a habit to keep a digital tire pressure gauge in the trunk for regular checks, ensuring the pressure stays within the 2.3-2.5 bar range to avoid leaks or abnormalities caused by temperature changes. If driving temporarily, try to avoid highways and sharp turns, and get it fixed as soon as you reach a service station. Ignoring this issue can also damage the suspension system, leading to higher repair costs later.