Why Do Front Tires Look Flat Despite Having the Same Tire Pressure?
3 Answers
The vast majority of cars use tubeless tires, which have no inner tube and thinner sidewalls, resulting in softer support. This causes subtle visual changes in the tire's appearance, making some tires appear slightly flat even when the tire pressure is the same. We should not judge the condition of tires based on their appearance but rather by their tire pressure values. As long as the tire pressure is normal, there is no issue. Abnormal tire pressure generally occurs for the following three reasons: 1. Abnormal tire pressure: Typically, the system will alert if the pressure is below 1.8 bar or exceeds 3.0 bar. In such cases, the tires should be inspected and the pressure adjusted. 2. Tire pressure monitoring system not reset: After inflating the tires, if the tire pressure monitoring system is not reset promptly, it will continue to display the previously recorded data, causing the tire pressure warning light to illuminate. Simply resetting the tire pressure monitoring system will resolve this issue. 3. Damaged tire pressure sensor: The tire pressure sensor, which monitors tire pressure, is installed inside the tire and connected to the inflation valve. If the sensor is damaged due to impact while driving, it can trigger the tire pressure warning light. In such cases, the only solution is to replace the sensor with a new one.
I've always thought this issue is quite common—it's essentially because the front part of the car is too heavy. The engine and transmission are both located at the front, and combined with the driver's weight, the front wheels bear a much greater load, causing the tires to flatten and appear more deflated. Although the tire pressure is the same, the shape is visually compressed by the weight, making it naturally look flatter. Don’t rely solely on visual judgment; it’s best to use an accurate tire pressure gauge to measure the cold tire pressure. Waiting two hours after parking will yield the most accurate reading. Tire aging or thinning sidewalls can also create an illusion, especially after long-distance driving when thermal expansion differences become more noticeable. Regularly checking tire pressure is basic maintenance—adjusting it according to the recommended values on the door frame label can save fuel and prevent blowouts. When driving, stable handling gives peace of mind. Low tire pressure affects fuel efficiency and braking response—safety first, don’t overreact but don’t overlook it either.
This question reminds me of my past confusion. The key lies in the weight distribution on the tires. At the same tire pressure, the front tires appear flatter visually because the engine's weight causes more deformation. The tire's structure also affects perception—variations in sidewall thickness or material at different positions, and uneven ground when parked can amplify the illusion. Using a tire pressure gauge is the most reliable method; don't rely on feelings or readings from ordinary air pumps. After driving, temperature changes can cause pressure fluctuations of over 10%, making tires appear flatter when cooled. I recommend developing a habit of checking tire pressure monthly and noting changes to prevent uneven wear and blowout risks. By the way, maintaining proper tire pressure can extend tire life by thousands of kilometers, saving money and ensuring peace of mind.
