How Long Can You Drive with Low Tire Pressure?
2 Answers
Driving with low tire pressure is not recommended as it increases friction with the road surface and makes the vehicle prone to veering off course, posing significant safety risks. Hazards of low tire pressure: Increased friction coefficient with the road surface leads to higher fuel consumption; Causes heavy steering and veering, compromising driving safety; Increases movement of tire components, leading to abnormal heat generation due to excessive rolling; Reduces the functionality of the cords and rubber, causing delamination or cord breakage, excessive friction with the rim, and damage to the bead area, resulting in abnormal wear; Multiplies friction between the tire and the ground, sharply raising tire temperature, softening the tire, and drastically reducing its strength. High-speed driving under these conditions may lead to tire blowouts; Increases tire body deformation, leading to cracks on the sidewalls and flexing movements that cause excessive heat, accelerating rubber aging, fatigue in the cord layers, and cord breakage. It also enlarges the tire's contact area with the ground, speeding up wear on the tire shoulders.
The first time I encountered low tire pressure, I panicked a bit and wasn't sure how long I could keep driving. Actually, it depends on how long the tire pressure has been low and your driving speed. If it's just slightly low, you might be able to drive a short distance to a gas station to refill, but don't exceed 20-30 kilometers. If it's significantly low, definitely don't take the risk. I remember once I stubbornly drove 15 kilometers, and the tire got worn out, plus fuel consumption skyrocketed. Low tire pressure increases the risk of a blowout, especially at high speeds, and can also shorten the tire's lifespan. It's recommended to stop and check with a tire pressure gauge immediately upon noticing the issue. Make it a habit to measure regularly and maintain the manufacturer-recommended 25-35 psi. In winter, tire pressure drops due to low temperatures, so check more often before driving to ensure safety.