Can You Drive with Low Tire Pressure in One Tire?
4 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.
Driving a car with low tire pressure is not worth it. Insufficient tire pressure causes uneven tire wear, especially severe damage to the edges. Tires that could last three years might need replacement in just a year and a half, costing you an extra thousand bucks. Fuel consumption also skyrockets. Like when I drove with low tire pressure for a while, my fuel consumption jumped from 8 liters to 10 liters per 100 km, meaning a full tank got me dozens of kilometers less. A little neglect in daily maintenance can quickly empty your wallet. It's advisable to check tire pressure regularly, ideally once a month, or pay attention when temperatures change. Simple tools are enough—don't wait until the tires are flat to take action. It saves money and peace of mind.
Driving with low tire pressure is really not advisable. When the pressure is insufficient, the tire deforms significantly, weakening its support, causing the car to shake or produce a humming noise, and the road surface feels uneven. Even worse, the internal structure can be damaged, potentially leading to more severe air leakage. I once had an old car with a similar issue, and later found a nail puncturing the tire. It's much safer to carefully check the tire condition when parking and inflate it properly.
