In most cases you can drive a short distance with underinflated tires, but it is unsafe and should be avoided. If possible, inflate to the vehicle’s recommended pressure or seek assistance before continuing your trip.
Why tire pressure matters
Tire pressure affects safety, handling, fuel efficiency and tire longevity. The correct pressure is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and is usually found on the driver’s door placard or in the owner's manual. Do not rely on the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall, which is the tire’s maximum capability, not the recommended operating pressure for your car. Pressure can drop naturally with temperature or develop from a slow leak, so regular checks are essential.
Safety risks
Underinflated tires can overheat, increasing the risk of a blowout—especially at highway speeds. They also compromise steering responsiveness and braking performance, particularly in wet or emergency conditions. The tire’s contact patch changes shape, which can lead to uneven wear and reduced performance in corners and during sudden maneuvers.
Practical consequences
Low pressure raises rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy and can cause noisier, harsher rides. It also accelerates uneven tread wear and can shorten tire life, potentially forcing more frequent replacements.
What to do now if you notice low pressure
These steps help determine whether you can safely continue driving and how to fix the issue promptly:
- Check tire pressure when the tires are cold using a reliable gauge, and compare the reading to the recommended PSI shown on the door placard or in the owner's manual.
- Inflate tires to the recommended cold PSI. If you don’t have a compressor, visit a gas station or tire shop. Do not inflate beyond the tire’s maximum pressure printed on the sidewall.
- If a tire is visibly damaged or the TPMS warning remains after inflation, pull over safely, avoid long trips, and seek professional assistance or replace the tire as needed.
Following these steps helps restore safer driving conditions and reduces the risk of a roadside tire failure.
Special cases: spare tires and run-flat tires
Spare tires (including donuts) and run-flat designs have their own pressure requirements. A temporary spare typically requires a higher fixed pressure (often around 60 psi) and is intended only for short use. Run-flat tires can sometimes be driven with reduced pressure for a limited distance, but you should follow the vehicle’s manual and service the tire promptly. Always check the exact requirements for your vehicle.
In all cases, do not rely on improvisation. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact pressure specifications and limits for your tires and vehicle.
Seasonal and driving conditions to keep in mind
Temperature changes affect tire pressure: cold weather lowers pressure and hot weather raises it. Check pressures more frequently during seasonal transitions and before long trips, adjusting for vehicle load and driving speed.
Summary
Driving on underinflated tires is unsafe and should be avoided. If you must, limit driving to a short distance to reach a safe location to inflate and inspect the tire. Regularly monitor tire pressure, heed the TPMS warnings, and keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI to maintain safety, efficiency, and tire life.