What Causes Low Tire Pressure Warning?
2 Answers
Low tire pressure warning may be caused by: insufficient air pressure, tire damage leading to air leakage, or low ambient temperature. Tire pressure refers to the air pressure inside the tires. In automotive maintenance terms, while the engine is considered the heart of a car (whose failure would mean the end of vehicle's life), tire pressure acts as the blood pressure of a vehicle. The level of tire pressure plays a crucial role in a car's performance and power output. Air pressure is the lifeline of tires - both excessive and insufficient pressure will shorten tire lifespan. Insufficient pressure increases tire body deformation, makes sidewalls prone to cracking, generates excessive flexing movement leading to overheating, accelerates rubber aging, causes fatigue in cord layers and breakage of ply cords. It also enlarges the tire's contact area with the ground, accelerating shoulder wear.
After driving for a long time, I’ve noticed that low tire pressure warnings can have many causes. The most common is a tire leak, such as from a nail puncture or a loose valve core, leading to slow air loss. Temperature changes also play a big role—cold weather naturally reduces tire pressure, and sometimes a 10-degree drop can cause a significant psi decrease. Aging tires, like those with damaged valve stems or sidewall cracks, can also leak slowly. Additionally, the monitoring system might give false alarms due to faulty sensors or dust buildup. Neglecting regular maintenance, like skipping periodic tire pressure checks, can easily lead to issues. I recommend using a tire pressure gauge monthly—don’t wait for the warning light to act. Low tire pressure while driving increases the risk of a blowout and reduces fuel efficiency. Early detection and repair are key. Safety comes first—never take it lightly.
