Can You Drive with Low Tire Pressure?
2 Answers
Tire pressure being too low depends on how low it is. If it's visibly noticeable, the tire pressure is likely below 1.0 bar, and you should not continue driving as there's a risk of tire blowout. If only the tire pressure warning light is on, and the normal tire pressure is not below 1.3 bar, you can drive slowly to a repair shop, but prolonged driving is not recommended. Causes of low tire pressure: 1. The tire tread is punctured by a sharp object, requiring tire repair. 2. The tire has not been replaced for a long time, causing the contact surface between the tire bead and the rim to not seal completely, leading to slow air leakage. 3. The rubber of the tire valve ages and cracks, causing air leakage, which over time results in underinflated tires.
Driving with underinflated tires is truly dangerous. Once I didn't check the tire pressure before heading out, and while driving on the highway, I suddenly felt the steering wheel become heavy, and the car started shaking. It scared me so much that I immediately pulled over. When I got out, I saw the tire was already one-third flat, with visible creases on the sidewall. The mechanic told me that continuing to drive could have led to a blowout or even wheel rim deformation. Now I've made it a habit to use a simple tire pressure gauge before every long trip, especially in winter when cold weather can cause pressure to drop. If I find the pressure is low, I'd rather be late than risk it—spending two bucks to top up the air at a gas station is much safer.
