What may happen when driving at high speed with low tire pressure?
3 Answers
Tire blowout. When driving at high speed with low tire pressure, the tire may experience wave-like deformation and a rise in temperature, which can easily lead to a blowout. Here is some information about tire blowouts: 1. Handling method: Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times and avoid sudden steering movements; Do not slam on the brakes immediately after a blowout occurs; If the situation permits and is under control, take 0.5 seconds to turn on the hazard lights, then immediately resume holding the steering wheel firmly. 2. Precautions: It is crucial to check the rearview mirror for other vehicles; If a blowout occurs on a highway, only apply light braking to slow down after the speed drops below 100 km/h.
When I first started driving on highways, I didn’t know much. Once, I didn’t notice that my tire pressure was low and drove for a while. The steering wheel felt unusually heavy, and the car was drifting unpredictably. Later, I realized the tire was overheating and close to a blowout. Insufficient pressure causes excessive tire deformation, leading to rapid friction-generated heat on the highway. The temperature spikes quickly, making the rubber prone to aging or even cracking, significantly increasing the risk of a blowout. If a tire blows out, the car may fishtail or lose control, especially when cornering or overtaking. The braking distance also increases, and if your reaction isn’t quick enough, it could lead to serious consequences. I recommend everyone develop the habit of checking tire pressure with a gauge before heading out to avoid such dangers.
As a car owner, I think driving on the highway with insufficient tire pressure is really not worth it, as fuel consumption will skyrocket. Last time I drove a long distance with low tire pressure, I spent over ten yuan more per hundred kilometers on fuel, and the tires wore out faster with a bunch of side cracks, leading to early retirement. When the pressure is too low, the tire's contact area increases, resistance rises, and the engine has to work harder, wasting fuel and damaging the tires. Driving like this long-term will cause repair costs to soar. It's better to buy a simple pressure gauge for regular checks, saving money and ensuring safety.
