Reasons for the Tire Pressure Symbol Lighting Up?
2 Answers
The tire pressure symbol lighting up is generally due to either low tire pressure or high tire pressure. At this time, tire inspection and pressure adjustment are required. Hazards of low tire pressure: Increased friction coefficient with the road surface, leading to higher fuel consumption; Causes heavy steering and easy deviation, which are factors detrimental to driving safety; Increases the movement of various parts of the tire, causing abnormal heating due to excessive rolling; Reduces the functionality of the cord and rubber, leading to delamination or cord breakage, and excessive friction with the rim, resulting in damage to the bead area and abnormal wear; Multiplies the friction between the tire and the ground, sharply raising the tire temperature, softening the tire, and drastically reducing its strength. High-speed driving may lead to tire blowouts; Increases tire body deformation, making the tire side prone to cracking, while generating flexing motion, leading to excessive heat, promoting rubber aging, fatigue of the cord layer, and cord breakage. It also increases the tire's contact area with the ground, accelerating shoulder wear.
Having driven for over a decade, I always stay highly alert whenever the tire pressure warning light comes on. The most common cause is a tire puncture—last month, my car had a slow leak due to a screw lodged in the tire. A sudden temperature drop can also significantly reduce tire pressure, triggering the light twice last winter. During long-distance drives, continuous driving can overheat the tires and set off the alarm. Another issue is forgetting to reset the system after changing tires, leading to false alarms—a friend experienced this last month. Sensor problems are also a concern, especially in cars over five years old, as their batteries may drain. The most critical step is to slow down immediately, pull over, and check all four tires with a pressure gauge. Never continue driving at high speeds—I’ve witnessed tire blowout accidents firsthand. Make it a habit to check tire pressure every two weeks, and be extra vigilant during seasonal changes. If the cause remains unclear, seek professional diagnosis at a shop—safety always comes first.
