What indicates that your vehicle's tires are not properly inflated?

The signs of an unstable vehicle or improper steering are critical indicators that tires may not be properly inflated. When tires are underinflated or overinflated, it can significantly affect the vehicle's handling characteristics. A vehicle that feels unstable may exhibit erratic behavior, such as swaying or a lack of responsiveness in steering, leading to an uncomfortable and potentially dangerous driving experience. Proper tire inflation is necessary for optimal contact with the road, which ensures better traction and stability.

While dashboard warning lights can indicate a variety of issues, they may not specifically alert drivers to tire inflation problems. Worn tires can suggest a variety of other issues, including proper alignment or even driving habits, and may not directly reflect inflation status. Similarly, a vehicle pulling to one side can indicate alignment issues or uneven tire wear rather than solely a problem related to tire inflation. Thus, feeling instability and steering issues is a concrete indication that tire inflation should be checked promptly to ensure safe operation of the vehicle.