Why is the tire pressure low in one tire?
2 Answers
The reason for low tire pressure in one tire is that the tire has a slow leak. This situation requires timely inspection and repair of the tire to prevent safety hazards while driving. The standard tire pressure for car tires is generally around 2.5bar. If the tire pressure is too high, the car may feel unstable at high speeds. When the tire pressure is too low, it can affect the car's handling and increase fuel consumption. After repairing or replacing a tire, it is essential to perform a four-wheel alignment and dynamic balance. Otherwise, the car may experience abnormal body vibrations at high speeds, significantly increasing safety risks.
Having low tire pressure is a relatively common issue, usually caused by several main reasons. First, it could be due to a puncture from sharp objects like nails or glass shards piercing the tread, leading to a slow leak. I’ve experienced this myself—after the right front tire pressure warning light came on, I found a small nail was the culprit. Alternatively, the tire valve might be damaged or poorly sealed, allowing air to slowly escape. Low tire pressure can also be related to aging sidewalls, as rubber cracks over time can cause leaks. Additionally, weather changes can affect pressure; cold winter air naturally reduces it. I recommend regularly checking with a portable pressure gauge—the standard value can be found in your car manual or on the door frame label. If the leak is slow, try topping it off first, but if the pressure remains consistently low, it’s best to visit a professional repair shop for a thorough inspection. Driving with low pressure for extended periods not only increases fuel consumption but also accelerates tire wear and even raises the risk of a blowout—safety on the road shouldn’t be overlooked. As a maintenance tip, calibrating tire pressure more often during seasonal changes can save you a lot of hassle.
