If you’re like most drivers, you’ve probably hit a pothole or two before. Potholes can do some serious damage to your car, and it’s important to know how to deal with the aftermath. In this blog post, we will outline what steps you should take if you hit a pothole and damage your car.
What is a Pothole?
A pothole is a hole in the roadway which can vary in size from a few inches to several feet wide. Potholes occur when water seeps into cracks in the pavement and, over time, causes the pavement to break apart. This can lead to serious damage to cars like bent rims or broken shocks and struts. Hitting a pothole – or taking the wrong measures to avoid one – can also lead to a crash resulting in injuries or worse. A blown tire or broken suspension part can cause you to lose control of your vehicle, as can a split-second decision to stomp on the brakes or suddenly swerve out of your lane to avoid a pothole. The good news? Following a few simple recommendations can help protect you, your car and your wallet from pothole damage. Make a habit of checking your tires for proper inflation. When behind the wheel, eliminate distractions and look ahead for roadway hazards. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and be wary of puddles that may conceal potholes. Check your surroundings for collision threats before attempting to dodge a pothole. If you cannot avoid one, slow down, but release the brakes and straighten the steering wheel just before impact to help minimize any damage.
What Damage Can a Pothole Do to Your Car?
Hitting a pothole can cause a variety of problems for your car. If the pothole is large enough, it can impact the integrity of your car’s suspension system, which is responsible for helping keep your car stable when you are driving over uneven surfaces. It can also bend your rims or puncture your tires. In extreme cases, it can even damage the body of your car or cause a breakage in the frame.
What Should I Do If I Hit a Pothole and Damage My Car?
If you hit a pothole and suspect any kind of damage to your car, it is important to take action immediately. First, pull over to a safe spot and inspect your car for any visible damage. If you notice:
- Bent rims, inspect them for any dents or cracks. If the damage is severe, you may need to replace the rim. A flat tire or one with a bulge, inspect it for any punctures and try to determine if a repair or replacement is necessary.
- Broken suspension parts, take your car to an auto repair shop as soon as possible.
- Body damage or frame breakage, have an auto technician inspect the affected area and recommend any necessary repairs.
Signs of Suspension Problems
When there is a problem with your suspension, you will likely be able to feel it. The car’s suspension is designed to keep the tires on the road and maintain the proper braking distance while providing a smooth ride. Your car has either a shock absorber or strut on each wheel. Shocks and struts absorb the vertical movement and stabilize your vehicle while turning and braking all while providing a smooth ride. If your car bounces a lot before stopping, leans to one side, or you feel or hear noises when driving over bumps or turning, you could be dealing with a suspension problem. Be sure to get it checked out so the necessary repairs can be made.
Stop by Scott’s Auto Repair
If you have suffered any type of damage to your car due to hitting a pothole, bring it into Scott’s Auto Repair. Our qualified technicians will diagnose the issue and make any necessary repairs quickly and efficiently. We have over many years of experience in auto repair, so you can be sure that you are getting quality service at an affordable price. Contact us today to get your car back on the road!