What is the impact of excessively low tire pressure on vehicle handling?

Excessively low tire pressure has several significant impacts on vehicle handling, which makes the choice relating to poor fuel efficiency, decreased handling, and increased tire wear the correct answer. When tire pressure is too low, the tires have a larger contact patch with the road, which can lead to decreased responsiveness and precision in steering. This results in poor handling, as the vehicle may feel sluggish or unresponsive during maneuvers.

Additionally, low tire pressure contributes to increased rolling resistance, which can negatively affect fuel efficiency. The vehicle has to exert more energy to overcome this resistance, resulting in higher fuel consumption.

Tires that are under-inflated also wear unevenly and more quickly. The increased flex and heat build-up in the tires lead to accelerated degradation of the rubber compounds. This can cause premature tire failure and necessitate more frequent replacements, further impacting vehicle performance and safety.

In contrast, low tire pressure does not improve traction and stability on wet surfaces; it can actually increase the risk of hydroplaning. Nor does it enhance comfort or reduce noise; while it may soften the ride momentarily, the overall handling and stability are compromised, which can lead to a less comfortable experience when driving. Finally, low tire pressure does not ensure a longer tire