Can You Still Drive When the Tire Pressure Monitoring Alarm Goes Off?
3 Answers
Tire pressure monitoring alarm is not recommended to continue driving after. Here are the reasons for the tire pressure monitoring alarm: 1. Tire puncture: A tire puncture usually results in very slow air leakage, which can be measured with a tire pressure gauge. If the tire is low on air, immediately replenish it and then observe the tire pressure warning light. 2. Excessive tire pressure: The standard inflation pressure for passenger car tires is typically specified as follows: standard tires: 2.4-2.5 bar; reinforced tires: 2.8-2.9 bar; the maximum pressure should not exceed 3.5 bar. Therefore, when the tire pressure of any tire exceeds 3.0 bar, it will trigger the tire pressure monitoring light to illuminate.
When the tire pressure monitoring light comes on, I absolutely do not recommend continuing to drive, as this may indicate insufficient pressure or a leak, which poses too great a risk. I once encountered a similar situation where the light went off, and I hurriedly drove on the highway, nearly resulting in a tire blowout and loss of control—it was terrifying. Insufficient tire pressure increases tire friction, making blowouts or handling difficulties more likely, especially in rainy or snowy conditions, which is even more dangerous. The best course of action is to pull over immediately, find a safe spot, and use a handheld tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of each tire—the standard values are usually labeled on the door frame for reference. If the pressure is slightly low, you can slowly drive to a repair shop after adding air; if there’s a noticeable leak or unusual noise, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck right away. For prevention, I recommend checking tire pressure once a month and maintaining the recommended values to avoid sudden issues. Additionally, keep a small tool in your car for emergencies—it can save you a lot of trouble.
If the tire pressure warning light comes on while driving with my family, I'll immediately pull over to check—safety is non-negotiable. Low tire pressure not only increases fuel consumption but also extends braking distance. A potential blowout could injure children or elderly passengers, making the risk far outweigh any convenience. Here's the proper procedure: After safely stopping, use a tire pressure gauge to check if readings are within normal range (around 30 psi). If slightly low, simply refill with air. For significant leaks, don't drive—call roadside assistance instead. Consider downloading a vehicle app to track tire pressure trends. Remember, chronic underinflation accelerates tire wear—replacing tires prematurely costs hundreds or even thousands. Develop the habit of monthly pressure checks; it's a small effort that ensures safety and saves money.
