Can You Still Drive with Low Tire Pressure?
3 Answers
It is not recommended to drive with low tire pressure. When a car's tire pressure is too low, the most obvious symptom is an increase in fuel consumption. Low tire pressure increases the friction between the tires and the road, thereby increasing rolling resistance, which leads to higher fuel consumption. Additionally, the amount of movement in the tires will also increase because the heightened friction causes the tire temperature to rise, making the tires softer and reducing their durability. There are generally three reasons for low tire pressure: 1. Thermal contraction due to low temperatures; 2. Air leakage from the tire; 3. The tire may be pinched or the tire edge may not be properly seated on the rim, resulting in poor tire sealing.
Last time my tire pressure was too low, the car wobbled badly and the steering wheel was hard to control. I almost slid out of the lane when turning. Insufficient tire pressure can cause tires to overheat, accelerate wear, and increase the risk of a blowout, especially on highways. If the tire pressure is 30% below the recommended value, it's absolutely not suitable to continue driving—you should stop and check immediately. I recommend getting out and using a tire pressure gauge to measure it. Normal tire pressure is generally between 2.2-2.5 bar, depending on the vehicle's label. If it's too low, don't force it—find a safe place to use an air pump or call a tow truck. Safety comes first. Once, my friend ignored the advice and kept driving, resulting in a tire explosion, costing thousands in repairs and nearly causing an accident. Remember, checking tire pressure regularly is a good habit that saves trouble and money. I measure mine once a month.
Driving with too low tire pressure is definitely not advisable for long distances, as the contact area of the tire increases, leading to rapid heat generation from friction. Over time, this can easily damage or even rupture the tire sidewall. I often encounter friends asking about this issue. When the tire pressure drops to a certain level, such as below 20 psi (approximately 1.4 bar), you should be cautious about tire blowouts. The reason is simple: severe tire deformation and weakened support significantly increase the risk on bumpy roads. It's recommended to pull over and check the tire pressure first. Most vehicles have the standard values posted on the driver's side door frame, so a quick comparison will tell you the status. If the pressure is only slightly low, say by about 10%, you can drive at a low speed for a short distance to the nearest gas station to refill. However, don’t take the risk on highways—pull over and seek assistance as soon as possible. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure with a digital gauge every two weeks to avoid sudden failures.
