How many kilometers can you drive with low tire pressure?
3 Answers
Generally, you should not continue driving with low tire pressure as it poses significant safety hazards. The normal tire pressure range for car tires is between 230-250kpa. Tire pressure standards vary depending on tire type and vehicle model: Different vehicle models have varying weights, heights, and tire sizes, which require different tire pressures. Standard tires have a recommended pressure of 230-250kpa, while reinforced tires require 280kpa-290kpa. Factors affecting tire pressure: Seasonal changes significantly impact tire pressure. In summer, high temperatures cause tires to heat up during driving, and high pressure increases the risk of blowouts, so slightly lower pressure is recommended. In winter, tire pressure should be slightly higher than in summer due to thermal contraction and expansion. Generally, a tire pressure between 250kpa-280kpa is more suitable for winter conditions.
I also encountered a low tire pressure issue once. While driving, I felt the steering wheel was a bit floaty, and I immediately pulled over to check after driving less than 5 kilometers. Turns out, excessively low tire pressure can cause severe wear on the tire sidewalls, increasing the risk of a blowout, especially on highways. If it's a slow leak and the pressure is about 20% lower, you can cautiously drive 20-30 kilometers to a repair shop, but it's best not to exceed this distance. I remember driving slowly in the city that time and noticing increased fuel consumption because the engine had to work harder. It's advisable to keep a tire pressure gauge handy for regular checks. The recommended tire pressure is usually listed on the label inside the door frame. If you find the pressure low, find a place to inflate them first—don't push your luck. Safety comes first.
I don't think there's a fixed mileage answer to this question. It mainly depends on how low the tire pressure is and the road conditions. When the pressure is 10%-15% low, I've tried driving 40 km without issues, but it wears the tire sidewalls severely, shortening the tire's lifespan in the long run. If it's very low, like visibly flat, you can only drive a few kilometers to a safe spot to stop, otherwise there's a high risk of the tire overheating and bursting. Hot weather makes it even more dangerous. I recommend checking the tire pressure after parking; the recommended values are usually in the vehicle manual. Avoid high-speed driving; move slowly at low speed to a repair shop. Develop a habit of checking tire pressure monthly.