Why do some car tires appear to be flat?
2 Answers
Because the vehicle body is heavy, it is normal for the tires to appear slightly flat, especially the front tires, as the front part carries the engine. As long as the tires are inflated to the standard pressure and there are no leaks, there is no need to worry if they look like they are flat. Tire Pressure Check: Generally, tire pressure should be checked once a week. The best method is to use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure. Modern tires are tubeless, making it difficult to judge by eye. Most tires today are low-pressure tires, and a pressure of 2.4 is considered normal. Standard Pressure: The standard pressure is usually indicated on the fuel tank cap, and you can inflate the tires accordingly. It is advisable to install a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) for added convenience. Overinflating the tires can cause excessive wear on the central tread, leading to uneven wear and reduced tire lifespan. Underinflated tires not only increase fuel consumption but also wear out faster.
I noticed that when a tire looks flat, it's usually due to insufficient tire pressure. Possible reasons include the tire being punctured by a nail or small stone, causing a leak, or the valve stem not being tightly closed, leading to air loss. Don't underestimate this issue, as driving with low pressure can make the steering wheel feel unstable, increase fuel consumption, and even lead to a blowout or accident. I remember last summer when I drove to the countryside and forgot to check the tire pressure before leaving. On the way, the tire looked flat, and upon checking, the pressure was only half of what it should be—turns out, the tire had aged and developed cracks on the sidewall, causing a slow leak. I quickly drove to a service station to inflate it, avoiding a bigger problem. So now, I've made it a habit to use a home tire pressure gauge every two weeks to check the pressure and inspect the tires for any damage. Tire pressure can also be affected by temperature changes, appearing lower in cold weather, so it's especially important to maintain it before winter. Regular tire replacement at a repair shop is also crucial, typically every five years or so.
