Can You Drive with Low Tire Pressure in One Tire?
2 Answers
A tire with low pressure should not be driven on and needs to be inflated promptly. The effects of excessively low tire pressure include: 1. Increased contact area between the tire and the ground, making the steering wheel heavier and affecting driving; 2. The tire is prone to overheating, increasing the risk of a blowout; 3. The tire body expands, making it more likely for cracks to form on the inner and outer sides of the tire; 4. Accelerated rubber aging and faster tire wear. The effects of excessively high tire pressure include: 1. Increased friction between the tire and the ground, reducing tire grip; 2. Impaired braking performance and driving comfort, accelerating wear on the central tread and shortening tire lifespan; 3. Increased vehicle vibration, accelerated tire aging, reduced wear resistance, and a higher risk of blowouts.
I think driving with low tire pressure is very risky. It causes excessive tire deformation, increases friction, may make the car pull to the side with lower pressure, makes the steering wheel feel heavier, and increases the risk of losing control during braking. Over time, the internal temperature of the tire rises, greatly increasing the chance of a blowout, especially on highways. Once, my tire pressure warning light came on while driving on the highway, and I kept going. The car wobbled like a boat, and I almost had an accident. Since then, I've made it a habit to squat down and check the tires before starting the car or use a handheld tire pressure gauge at home. Saving a little time but increasing danger isn't worth it. Most gas stations now offer free air filling services—just spend a few minutes to get it done, and it's much safer.
