What does the abnormal tire pressure indicator mean?
3 Answers
The tire pressure warning light illuminates due to the following reasons: tire pressure is outside the normal range; tire deflation caused by air leakage or punctures; malfunction of the tire pressure sensor. Below are the impacts of both overinflation and underinflation: Effects of overinflated tires: Overinflation increases friction between the tire and the ground, reducing tire grip; affects vehicle braking performance and driving comfort; accelerates wear on the central tread pattern, shortening tire lifespan. Effects of underinflated tires: Increases contact area between the tire and ground, causing tires to overheat; expands the tire carcass, leading to cracks on inner/outer sidewalls; accelerates rubber aging and increases tire wear.
I drive quite frequently and have encountered the tire pressure warning light several times. This indicator is usually triggered by the vehicle's tire pressure monitoring system, signaling that one or more tires have abnormal pressure. The most common causes include slow leaks, such as from a nail puncture or aging valve stems; low tire pressure increases the risk of a blowout, affects handling, and extends braking distance; or overinflation, leading to uneven tire wear. Sometimes, a dead sensor battery or system malfunction can also cause false alarms. My advice is to pull over immediately when the light comes on, use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire, and refill them to the recommended levels in the vehicle manual. If the issue persists, visit a professional shop to inspect for tire damage or sensor replacement. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for road safety and fuel efficiency. Especially during seasons with significant temperature fluctuations—like winter when pressure tends to drop and summer when it rises—regular checks help prevent such issues.
As a family driver, I immediately became alert when the abnormal tire pressure warning light came on, as it indicates potential safety hazards. If the tire pressure is too low, the tires are prone to deformation, leading to steering difficulties or blowouts, which can be very dangerous if an accident occurs on the highway. If the pressure is too high, the tire grip weakens, affecting control on wet or slippery roads. Common causes include ordinary air leaks, pressure fluctuations due to temperature changes, or sensor false alarms. I remember the last time the light came on when I was on a business trip, and I promptly used a free air pump at a gas station to adjust the pressure, avoiding bigger trouble. I recommend everyone develop a habit of checking tire pressure every two weeks and maintaining it within the recommended range—don’t wait for the warning to take action. This can reduce tire wear, save fuel, and ensure peace of mind for family trips, especially during long-distance travel when tire pressure balance is even more critical.
