What to Do When the Dashboard Shows Low Tire Pressure?
2 Answers
If no visible damage is found, you can directly inflate the tire to the normal pressure and reset the tire pressure system. If a puncture is discovered upon inspection, promptly drive to a tire shop for repair, then reinflate the tire. If the low tire pressure warning reappears after inflation without any holes in the tire, it may be due to air leakage caused by a deformed wheel rim. It is recommended to inspect and replace the wheel rim. When inflating tires, pay attention to the following points: Always use a pressure gauge to check the pressure to avoid overinflation, which could cause the tire to burst. After stopping, wait for the tires to cool down before inflating, as driving increases tire temperature and affects pressure. Inspect the valve stem. If the valve stem and core are not properly aligned or have defects, it may hinder inflation and pressure measurement. Ensure cleanliness during inflation. The air used should not contain moisture or oil to prevent damage to the inner tube rubber. Avoid inflating beyond the standard pressure and then deflating, or overinflating due to prolonged inability to inflate while traveling. Excessive pressure can overstretch the cords, reducing their strength and shortening tire lifespan. Before inflating, clean the valve stem of dust, and avoid loosening the valve core. After inflation, apply soapy water (or saliva) to the valve stem to check for leaks (bubbles will form if leaking). Ensure the valve cap is securely fastened to prevent dirt from entering the valve stem.
When I encounter a tire pressure warning on the dashboard, my first reaction is to find a place to pull over and check. I use the onboard tire pressure gauge to measure all four tires to see which one is underinflated. Sometimes it's just a natural drop due to cold weather, and topping up the air is sufficient. But if I notice one tire is noticeably flat, I need to be cautious about a possible nail puncture. I always keep an air pump in my car to handle simple situations myself. However, if there's a serious leak, driving on it will only damage the tire or even the rim. In such cases, changing to the spare tire or calling for roadside assistance is the best course of action. During regular maintenance, don't forget to ask the mechanic to check the tire pressure sensors, as false alarms can sometimes be caused by them.
