Potholes are a common occurrence on roadways everywhere. They can range in size from small, shallow depressions to large, deep craters. While they may seem like a minor inconvenience, hitting potholes can potentially cause significant damage to your vehicle. Here are a few things to look out for to keep your vehicle safe from pothole […]
Potholes are a common occurrence on roadways everywhere. They can range in size from small, shallow depressions to large, deep craters. While they may seem like a minor inconvenience, hitting potholes can potentially cause significant damage to your vehicle. Here are a few things to look out for to keep your vehicle safe from pothole damage.
Damage to your tires.
First and foremost, hitting a pothole can cause damage to your tires. When you hit a pothole, your tires can be forced to bend or flex in ways that they were not designed to do. This can cause your tires to develop bulges or flat spots, which can lead to vibration, uneven wear, and even blowouts. In addition, hitting a pothole can cause your wheels to become misaligned, which can also contribute to uneven tire wear and poor handling.
Damage to your suspension.
Another potential problem that can arise from hitting a pothole is damage to your suspension system. Your suspension system is responsible for keeping your vehicle stable and providing a smooth ride. When you hit a pothole, the impact can cause your suspension to compress and rebound rapidly, putting stress on various components such as your shocks, struts, and springs. Over time, this can lead to premature wear and even failure of these parts, which can be expensive to repair.
Damage to your steering.
In addition to damage to your tires and suspension, hitting potholes can also cause damage to your steering system. When you hit a pothole, the impact can cause your steering to become misaligned, which can make it difficult to control your vehicle. In some cases, hitting a pothole can even cause your steering to fail entirely, which can be incredibly dangerous.
One of the most significant dangers of hitting potholes is the potential for damage to your vehicle’s undercarriage. When you hit a pothole, your vehicle’s undercarriage can scrape against the road, causing damage to components such as your oil pan, transmission and exhaust system. This can lead to leaks, reduced performance and even complete failure of these parts.
How to avoid a pothole.
The best way to protect your vehicle from pothole damage is to avoid hitting them in the first place. This may sound obvious, but it can be challenging to do, especially if you are driving on roads that are poorly maintained. Here are a few tips to help you avoid hitting potholes:
- Slow down: When driving on roads that are known to have potholes, slow down to give yourself more time to react if you see one ahead.
- Keep your distance: Leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. This will give you more time to react if the vehicle in front of you hits a pothole.
- Avoid puddles: Puddles can often hide potholes, so try to avoid driving through them if possible.
- Watch for warning signs: Look for signs that indicate there may be potholes ahead, such as uneven pavement or patches.
How to minimize damage if you do hit a pothole.
- Check your tires: After hitting a pothole, check your tires for any signs of damage, such as bulges or flat spots.
- Check your alignment: If you notice any changes in how your vehicle handles, such as pulling to one side, get your alignment checked as soon as possible.
- Check your undercarriage: Look underneath your vehicle for any signs of damage to your undercarriage, such as scrapes or dents.
- Get a professional inspection: If you are unsure if your vehicle has been damaged, take it to a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection. They can identify any damage that may not be immediately visible and recommend any necessary repairs.
- It’s important to note that even if you take all the necessary precautions, there may still be instances where you hit a pothole and damage occurs. In these cases, it’s essential to address any damage as soon as possible to avoid further problems down the road.
Hitting potholes can cause significant damage to your vehicle. To minimize the risk of damage, be vigilant on the road and watch out for any rough patches. If you do hit a pothole, check for any obvious damage and take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for inspection if necessary. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your vehicle stays in good condition and avoid expensive repairs in the future. As always, if you need assistance, Gerry’s OK Tire is always here to help.
