
Tire pressure that is too low increases the contact area between the tire and the ground, leading to abnormal temperature rises inside the tire during driving. Additionally, severe deformation of the tire sidewalls accelerates the aging of internal steel wires and fabric layers, which can lead to potential blowouts. It also increases fuel consumption and reduces tire lifespan. According to the international GBT2978-2008 standard: (1) Standard tires: 2.4-2.5 bar (2) Reinforced tires: 2.8-2.9 bar (3) Maximum pressure: Should not exceed 3.5 bar. Generally, car tires require a pressure of about 2 kg--2.5 kg. Based on the principle of thermal expansion and contraction, in summer, the pressure can be adjusted 0.1-0.2 lower than the normal value, while in winter, it can be adjusted 0.1-0.2 higher than the normal value.









Last time I checked my car myself, I paid special attention to the tire pressure. A reading of 190 in summer is definitely too low—normal cold tire pressure for regular family cars should be at least between 220 and 250. For every 10-degree temperature increase, tire pressure rises by about 10 kPa. If you measure 190 when the car is warm, the actual cold pressure might drop to 170, which is extremely dangerous. Underinflated tires cause the sidewalls to flex repeatedly, becoming scorching hot after just a few kilometers of driving, and could blow out at any moment on the highway. Just the other day, I saw an SUV whose fuel consumption surged by 20% due to low tire pressure, with uneven tire wear to boot. I recommend topping up the air first thing in the morning when the car hasn’t been driven, and checking for slow leaks while you’re at it.

I've learned my lesson about tire pressure. 190 kPa in summer is simply not enough, especially with current scorching weather where asphalt road temperatures can exceed 60°C. Last time I drove with 190 kPa for half an hour, the tires were burning hot to touch. Insufficient tire pressure increases rolling resistance, making the steering wheel noticeably heavier and reducing responsiveness during emergency lane changes. Standard tire pressure is usually marked on the door frame or inside the fuel filler cap, with recommended values around 220 kPa. It's best to keep a portable tire pressure gauge and inflator handy - always measure when tires are cold. By the way, if the low tire pressure warning light comes on, you must address it immediately.

A tire pressure of 190 kPa is definitely abnormal in summer, I'm well aware of that. I remember last June, my friend went on a road trip with 190 kPa tire pressure and ended up with a flat tire halfway. In this kind of scorching weather, the air inside the tires expands, and low pressure makes the tread more prone to deformation. Normal tire pressure should be around 220 kPa, but check your vehicle's manual for specifics. If you measure 190 kPa when the tires are cold, it's time to add air—otherwise, it'll waste fuel and damage the tires. Just stop by a gas station or repair shop for a quick air top-up, and have them check for any bulges or cracks in the sidewalls while you're at it.

I have experience with this. High temperatures in summer can cause abnormal changes in tire pressure, and 190 is clearly too low. Under normal circumstances, if the cold tire pressure is below 220, it should be addressed. I always adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommended value. When tire pressure is insufficient, the tire's contact area increases, making driving noticeably harder and the steering wheel heavier, with wear particularly concentrated on both sides of the tire. If you find such low tire pressure before hitting the highway, don't take any chances. Last time, Master Wang at the auto repair shop said that such low pressure in summer must be dealt with immediately.

A tire pressure of 190 is indeed too low in summer. With high tire temperatures during hot weather, the standard tire pressure usually ranges between 220 and 250. Low tire pressure will make the steering feedback less precise and increase body roll when cornering. Last year, my car had insufficient tire pressure, and two tires wore out within just one month. It's best to check your tire pressure monthly with a mechanical gauge, especially before long trips. The free air pumps at gas stations are sufficient—just top it up to around 230 for basic safety. If the tire pressure frequently drops, check if the valve stem is aging or leaking.


