Is 42 tire pressure too high to drive?

A tyre pressure of 42 psi (approximately 290 kPa) is indeed on the high side for most family cars, but it needs to be assessed based on the specific vehicle model and usage scenario. The recommended tyre pressure for standard tyres is usually between 230-250 kPa (2.3-2.5 bar), while reinforced tyres such as those on some SUVs or MPVs may reach 280-290 kPa (2.8-2.9 bar). Seasonal factors should also be considered: during summer heat, it's advisable to maintain tyre pressure 0.1-0.2 bar below standard to account for thermal expansion, whereas in winter a 0.2 bar increase may be appropriate. Always prioritize the manufacturer's recommended values indicated on the door jamb or owner's manual, and perform regular cold-tyre pressure checks (after 3 hours of parking or driving less than 2 km) using a pressure gauge, ensuring inter-tyre pressure variance doesn't exceed 0.1 bar. If noticeable vibration occurs during normal driving or abnormal central tread wear is observed, promptly adjust to recommended specifications.