It’s good old pothole season! Winter can really do a number on the roads, causing an increase in potholes & overall road damage. Potholes are not just a nuisance, they can actually cause damage to your tires and even your vehicle.
If your vehicle hits a very deep, dreaded divot in the road, you could experience its wrath on your vehicle. While you may see a full-on tire puncture or a bent rim, the result of it is not always obvious. If you have experienced a sudden jolt from a pothole, a timely inspection should be in your future. If you ignore it, your vehicle can experience even further damage and stress that results in budget-breaking repairs.
Potential Pothole Damage
- Tire puncture
- Tire damage & unnecessary wear
- Wheel rim damage
- Premature wear on shocks & struts
- Suspension damage
- Steering misalignment
- Exhaust system damage
- Engine damage
So let’s say you hit a pothole head on or you’ve barely nicked it, either way your vehicle has likely sustained damage of some kind. But just how much damage depends on the depth and speed of your impact. If your unsure whether or not your vehicle experienced damage after hitting a pothole, there are some signs you can look for –
Tires – So you didn’t get a flat tire, but you’re seeing your tires sidewall is bulging, it’s time to visit your local repair shop.
Rims – Your vehicle most likely has aluminum-based rims. That means they’re especially susceptible to dents. Do a onceover of your rims if you’re concerned. If you experience blatant damage to your rims, professionals can be there to inspect the damage.
Undercarriage – If you’ve hit a pothole and you have a relatively low vehicle, you can experience undercarriage damage. Whether you’re noticing fluid leaks or you’re starting to see rust formation, that could be just the beginning. Schedule your vehicle’s inspection sooner rather than later.
Exhaust system – Are you hearing weird noises from your exhaust system? Hitting a pothole may have damaged your ride. A vehicle inspection is imperative at this time.
Spring season is that time of the year for potholes to make themselves known! Here are a few suggestions for helping you to avoid pothole and tire problems entirely.
- Maintain your tire manufacturer’s suggested air pressure
- Make sure your tires are properly inflated
- Leave enough space in front of your vehicle so that you can see any possible hazards you may face
- Avoid potholes at all cost & be extra alert during this time of year
- Should you not be able to avoid a pothole, do your best to drive slowly over it
Stay clear of potholes this season!
