Can You Still Drive When Tire Pressure is at 1.5 bar?
2 Answers
Tire pressure at 1.5 bar is still drivable, but the front tires can only last for 50 kilometers, while the rear tires can last for 100 kilometers. Tire pressure affects the contact area of the tire with the road. Both overinflation and underinflation reduce the contact area, which in turn affects braking distance. The recommended tire pressure should be based on the manufacturer's specifications, as it is determined by factors such as vehicle weight and chassis height. Hazards of Overinflated Tires: Reduced friction and adhesion, affecting braking performance; Causes steering wheel vibration and misalignment, reducing driving comfort; Accelerates wear on the central tread pattern, shortening tire lifespan; Increases vehicle vibration, indirectly affecting the lifespan of other components; Overstretches tire cords, reducing elasticity and increasing load during driving; Decreases puncture resistance, making tires more susceptible to damage from sharp objects like nails or glass, leading to internal cracks or blowouts. Hazards of Underinflated Tires: Increases friction with the road, leading to higher fuel consumption; Causes heavy steering and misalignment, compromising driving safety; Increases tire movement, leading to abnormal overheating due to excessive rolling; Weakens cord and rubber functionality, causing delamination, cord breakage, or excessive friction with the rim, resulting in abnormal wear; Multiplies friction with the ground, rapidly raising tire temperature, softening the tire, and drastically reducing strength, which can lead to blowouts at high speeds; Increases tire deformation, leading to sidewall cracks and excessive heat buildup, accelerating rubber aging, cord fatigue, and tread shoulder wear.
Speaking from years of driving experience, a tire pressure of only 1.5bar is genuinely unsafe, increasing the risk of blowouts or loss of control, especially at highway speeds. Normal tire pressure typically ranges between 2.0 and 2.5bar. Below this range, tires deform quickly, accelerating wear and significantly increasing fuel consumption. I once forgot to check, resulting in a cracked tire sidewall and an expensive replacement. It's advisable to stop and check immediately; keeping a portable pressure gauge handy for regular use is best. Never push through long distances—find a nearby repair shop to inflate or switch to a spare tire. Regular vehicle maintenance is essential. In summer, heat can cause pressure to drop easily, so checking every two weeks can prevent major issues. Safety should always come first.
