Which part of the tire experiences increased wear when tire pressure is too high?
3 Answers
Tire pressure that is too high will cause increased wear on the central part of the tire tread. Related information about tire pressure is as follows: Low tire pressure: Both excessively low or high tire pressure will affect the service life of the tire. If the tire pressure is too low, its radial deformation increases, causing excessive deformation on both sidewalls, leading to shoulder wear on the tread edges. This also raises the tire temperature, significantly reducing the tire's service life. High tire pressure: If the tire pressure is too high, the tire's rigidity increases while deformation and contact area decrease. This results in higher unit pressure on the central part of the tread, accelerating wear. It causes central tread wear, affects ride comfort, and reduces tire lifespan.
I've driven several cars before, and they all had the issue of excessive tire pressure. Back then, the center part of the tires wore out particularly fast—that circular area right in the middle where the tread pattern would smooth out quickly. This happened because the pressure was too high, making the tires stiff so only the center touched the ground, unlike the normal situation where the entire tire makes steady contact. I remember one time during summer when the temperature rose and the pressure increased, resulting in the middle part getting worn as smooth as a mirror during a long drive, nearly causing a blowout. Now I've gotten smarter—I use a portable tire pressure gauge every month to check and maintain the pressure around the recommended value on the door label, which is typically about 32 psi for most sedans. This not only extends tire life but also saves fuel, enhances safety, and improves handling. Regular checks save hassle and money—after all, replacing new tires can cost hundreds.
Excessive tire pressure accelerates wear on the central tread area. I made this mistake when I first started driving – overinflating caused premature flattening of the center section. Fortunately, I detected it early and replaced the tires before any incidents occurred. Overinflated tires become rigid, causing only the center to contact the road while the sides remain suspended. Prolonged uneven wear like this is hazardous. Moreover, it compromises driving stability, increasing skid risks during turns. I've developed a habit of checking pressure every two weeks using either the vehicle's onboard system or a personal pressure gauge, always referring to the recommended values on the door jamb rather than guessing. This extends tire lifespan and prevents unnecessary expenses and safety risks.
