What are the dangers of excessive tire pressure?
2 Answers
The dangers of excessive tire pressure: 1. The friction and adhesion of the tire will decrease, affecting braking performance; 2. It can cause steering wheel vibration and deviation, reducing driving comfort; 3. Accelerates localized wear of the tread pattern in the center of the tire, shortening tire lifespan; 4. Increases body vibration, indirectly affecting the lifespan of other components; 5. Causes excessive stretching deformation of the tire cords, reducing tire elasticity and increasing the load on the vehicle during driving; 6. Reduces the tire's resistance to punctures, making it easier for sharp objects like nails or glass on the road to penetrate the tire, leading to internal cracks, blowouts, and potential tire bursts.
I've been driving for over twenty years, and high tire pressure causes quite a few issues. The most common problem is the center of the tire wearing out extremely fast, forcing me to replace tires after just 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers—wasting money and being bad for the environment. In terms of handling, excessive pressure makes tires stiff, drastically reducing grip, especially during rainy-day braking when the rear end tends to fishtail, extending stopping distance by several meters and making emergency stops ineffective. Even more dangerous is the risk of a blowout—high-speed driving causes tire pressure to spike, often leading to bulges or ruptures. I once had a close call on the highway because of this, but thankfully managed to pull over in time. To stay safe, I make it a habit to check tire pressure monthly, adjusting it to the standard value listed on the door placard. I keep a portable tire pressure gauge in the car—just a few minutes for peace of mind.
