How Can You Tell if Your Car has Pothole Damage?

As roadways freeze and thaw, water erodes some of the dirt beneath them.  If the asphalt layer over these holes falls or cracks, the result is a crater called a pothole.  Drivers who cannot see or avoid these hazards often suffer some form of pothole damage to their cars.  This pothole damage may be instant, such as a punctured tire, or cumulative, such as misalignments of the steering system.  Pothole damage accounts for nearly 500,000 insurance claims per year, so experts suggest looking for signs of damage immediately following an encounter with a pothole.  When looking for pothole damage be sure to inspect:
    •    Both tires and rims for signs of bulging in the sidewall area of the tire.  The rims of many cars are aluminum-based which means they cannot withstand as much pothole damage as older steel rims. 
    •    Dents, leaks and rusting around the wheel and undercarriage.  Striking a deep pothole can cause dents to form around the wheels and undercarriage.  If the rustproofing is compromised, rust may begin to form around the damaged areas.
    •    Changes in the alignment and shock absorption system.  When the tire strikes a pothole, especially at highway speeds, the entire shock absorption system receives an immediate jolt.  Over time, the shock absorbing springs and struts become less resilient, leading to a much rougher ride and less responsive steering.
Make an appointment with our service department if you are having any pothole symptoms.