What to Do When Tire Pressure is Too Low?
3 Answers
Tire pressure is too low if there is a built-in simple inflation device or tire pressure gauge, you can pull over to the roadside and measure and inflate each tire. If not, you can drive slowly to the nearest car repair shop or 4S store. Hazards of low tire pressure: The friction coefficient with the road surface increases, leading to higher fuel consumption; factors such as easy deviation that are unfavorable to driving safety; the movement of each part of the tire increases, and excessive rolling causes abnormal heating of the tire; the function of the cord and rubber is reduced, causing delamination or cord breakage, and excessive friction with the rim causes damage to the bead area and abnormal wear; The friction between the tire and the ground increases exponentially, the tire temperature rises sharply, the tire becomes soft, and the strength drops sharply. High-speed driving may cause a tire blowout; the deformation of the tire body increases, cracks are prone to appear on the sidewall, and at the same time, flexing motion occurs, leading to excessive heat, promoting rubber aging, fatigue of the cord layer, cord breakage, and also increasing the tire's contact area with the ground, accelerating shoulder wear.
I've been driving for quite a few years and have encountered low tire pressure several times. The first step is to find a tire pressure gauge to check the reading—the car's monitoring system usually displays it, or you can get it checked for free at a gas station. If it's low, the recommended pressure is typically listed on the label inside the door. When inflating, go to a gas station or use a handheld pump to fill it slowly, avoiding overinflation. I always keep a portable pump in my car for emergencies—it saves a lot of hassle. After filling, drive a short distance and check the pressure again to ensure there are no leaks. Common leak points, like nail punctures, can be checked with soapy water; if the issue persists, take it to a repair shop for a patch. Regular maintenance, such as monthly checks, can prevent blowouts, save fuel, and extend tire life. Safety-wise, low tire pressure makes the car feel unstable when turning and increases braking distance, so don’t delay fixing it—safety comes first.
As a parent, I place particular emphasis on driving safety. Low tire pressure can make the car unstable and prone to accidents. Before driving, always check the dashboard warning lights—if they're illuminated, it indicates an issue. When addressing low tire pressure, drive slowly to the nearest service station for inflation, avoiding high speeds to prevent rim damage. The recommended pressure is usually listed in the manual or on the door frame; ensure proper inflation. Make it a habit to check tire pressure every two weeks using a simple gauge—this helps detect early issues like minor punctures. When children are in the car, I pay extra attention to smooth driving. Proper tire pressure reduces fuel consumption, saving money and providing peace of mind. Regularly inspect tire wear and teach children basic car knowledge to enhance the whole family's safety awareness.
