Can You Drive with Insufficient Tire Pressure?
2 Answers
Tires with insufficient pressure should not be driven on. A flat tire indicates that the standard tire pressure is very low. Continuing to drive under such conditions will increase fuel consumption and cause the rim to come into contact with the road, thereby reducing the tire's lifespan. Solution for a flat tire: A flat tire needs to be replaced. First, turn on the hazard lights to alert vehicles behind you. Then, pull over safely, place a triangular warning sign behind the car, and replace the tire with the spare. Method for replacing a car's spare tire: Take out the spare tire and jack, use the jack to lift the vehicle, unscrew the tire bolts, remove the tire that needs to be replaced, align the spare tire's bolt holes and install the bolts, then lower the jack to complete the replacement. Functions of car tires: Support the entire weight of the vehicle, bear the load of the car, transmit traction and braking torque, ensure adhesion between the wheels and the road, absorb shocks and impacts during driving to prevent excessive vibration and early damage to car components, adapt to high-speed performance while reducing noise during driving, ensuring safety, handling stability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Car tire maintenance methods: Regularly remove stones stuck in the tire treads, avoid exposing tires to prolonged sunlight, frequently check tire pressure (refer to the normal pressure values listed inside the fuel tank cap and adjust accordingly), maintain the suspension system, periodically check front wheel alignment, choose smooth roads while driving to avoid objects that can puncture or scratch tires, and steer clear of chemical spills that may corrode tires.
When tire pressure is insufficient, I will stop immediately to check instead of continuing to drive. Low pressure causes increased tire deformation, tread wear, and significantly higher friction during driving, which can easily lead to a blowout, especially on highways where it's even more dangerous. Handling also becomes unstable, with symptoms like floating steering or longer braking distances. Fuel consumption increases as well, essentially burning money for nothing. Last time before a trip, I forgot to check the pressure and drove on the highway with low pressure, resulting in premature tire failure and the need for replacement. Now, I use a portable tire pump to check before every trip, aiming for the target value listed on the door label. For safety, if the pressure is low, I either refill it or seek help, avoiding the risk of driving underinflated. Make it a regular habit to prevent issues.
