Safety
8 Oct 2025
4 min read

What Happens When Tyre Pressure is Too Low?

Driving with under-inflated tyres is more dangerous and costly than most drivers realize. Here's everything you need to know about the risks and how to avoid them.

Critical Safety Warning

Tyres that are 25% or more under-inflated are 3x more likely to be involved in a crash. If your TPMS warning light is on, check your tyre pressure immediately.

The Hidden Dangers of Low Tyre Pressure

1. Increased Safety Risks

  • Longer stopping distances: Under-inflated tyres reduce braking performance by up to 10%
  • Poor handling: Reduced responsiveness in corners and emergency maneuvers
  • Blowout risk: Excessive heat buildup can cause sudden tyre failure
  • Aquaplaning: Reduced water dispersal increases risk in wet conditions

2. Wasted Fuel & Money

Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder:

  • 3% fuel loss per PSI: 10 PSI under = 30% more fuel consumption
  • £200+ per year: Average cost of wasted fuel from under-inflation
  • Higher emissions: Increased CO2 output harms the environment

Example: If your tyres should be at 32 PSI but are at 26 PSI (6 PSI low), you're wasting approximately 18% more fuel - that's £15-20 extra per month for an average driver!

3. Accelerated Tyre Wear

Low pressure causes uneven contact with the road surface:

  • Shoulder wear: Outer edges wear faster than the center
  • 25% shorter lifespan: Tyres may need replacing 6-12 months earlier
  • £400+ replacement cost: Premature tyre replacement is expensive
  • Irregular wear patterns: Can cause vibration and noise

4. Excessive Heat Build-up

Under-inflated tyres flex more, generating dangerous heat:

  • Structural damage: Heat weakens tyre internal structure
  • Tread separation: Can cause catastrophic failure at high speeds
  • Reduced load capacity: Less able to carry heavy loads safely

How to Tell if Your Tyres are Under-Inflated

  • TPMS warning light: Dashboard warning indicates 25%+ pressure loss
  • Visual check: Tyre looks flatter or bulges at the bottom
  • Handling changes: Car feels sluggish or pulls to one side
  • Increased fuel consumption: Noticeable drop in MPG
  • Uneven tyre wear: Shoulders wearing faster than center

What to Do if Your Tyre Pressure is Low

  1. 1Check all tyres immediately using a pressure gauge when tyres are cold
  2. 2Inflate to recommended pressure found on your door jamb sticker
  3. 3Monitor for rapid pressure loss - check again after 24 hours
  4. 4Get professional inspection if pressure drops quickly (possible puncture)

Related Guides

Can I Drive With Low Tyre Pressure?

Find out if it's safe to continue driving when your TPMS warning light comes on.

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Why Does My Tyre Pressure Keep Dropping?

If you're constantly topping up your tyres, learn the common causes and solutions.

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Find Your Car's Correct Tyre Pressure

Don't risk driving with incorrect pressure. Search our database to find the exact PSI for your vehicle.

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