What are the effects of low tire pressure?
2 Answers
Tire pressure being low has the following effects: 1. Increased fuel consumption: Maintaining normal tire pressure can reduce fuel consumption by 3.3%; if tire pressure decreases by 30%, when the car is traveling at 40km/h, fuel consumption increases by 5%~10%; if just one tire is underinflated by 40PSI, the lifespan of that tire will decrease by 10,000 kilometers, and it will increase the vehicle's total fuel consumption by 3%. 2. Accelerated tire wear: Whether the tire pressure is too high or too low, it will affect the lifespan of the tire. 3. Abnormal vehicle bumpiness: When tire pressure is insufficient or a tire is leaking, the tire's adhesion decreases while driving, causing severe shaking on uneven road surfaces. It cannot effectively cushion impacts from the ground or dampen vibrations caused by impacts, affecting ride comfort.
Low tire pressure can be really dangerous. I had an experience before where the car felt unstable while driving, as if it was floating, and the braking distance was noticeably longer. During an emergency maneuver, I almost had an accident. The risks are even greater on highways—low pressure causes tires to heat up quickly, increasing the chance of a blowout, which is no small issue. Over time, the outer edges of the tires wear out severely, shortening their lifespan significantly and adding extra repair costs. Fuel consumption also rises because the increased rolling resistance wastes gas unnecessarily. I recommend car owners check tire pressure monthly—a simple pressure gauge is all you need. Safety comes first, after all.
