Potholes are a massive problem we must deal with in the UK, especially as we approach the winter season. Pothole damage can be quite severe if the hole is large and hit at high speed by your car, so it is important to keep an eye out for them while driving.
This last year has been one of the worst on record for the damage created by potholes.
Worst summer pothole statistics for 15 years reported by RAC
What Causes Potholes?
Potholes are commonly caused by water freezing and then thawing in the colder months. This is when rainwater seeps through the small cracks of the road surface and sits below it. This water then freezes and expands in the cold weather, pushing the surface up and forming cracks.
Eventually, the ice melts leaving a space and – once a car drives over this – it can cause it to collapse. This process occurs regularly and is why we see so many potholes on our roads.
What Damage Could a Pothole Do to Your Car?
Pothole damage can be quite minor or even major. It can depend on how hard or fast you hit the pothole and how large the pothole is. The initial problem that could occur is your tyre being punctured or cut or – in the worst-case scenario – it could be a blowout.
With a blowout, you are likely to lose control of your steering since there is no air in the tyre that has been damaged. Therefore, it is important to try to avoid potholes wherever possible.
If your tyres get damaged, there is a high chance that your wheels could be as well. Scratched rims are more common, especially if you have low profile tyres, but at higher speeds you could risk buckling or cracking the rims.
Suspension
The sudden thud of hitting a pothole can cause damage to your suspension system – which can be expensive to repair if the damage is severe.
After hitting a pothole, if you feel your car is harder to steer, sits lower on one side or is overall a lot less comfortable, then there is a chance you have a damaged suspension system.
It is important to get your car checked as soon as possible if your car has suffered from any of these effects to avoid any further damage.
Wheel Alignment
Poor wheel alignment can occur after hitting a pothole. If you find that your car is pulling to one side or the handling becomes difficult, then there is a chance your alignment is out.
It can also cause uneven tyre wear, so it is important to have the issue checked as soon as possible to prolong the life of your tyres…
View one of our recent blogs on the subject – The consequences of not preparing your car for winter.
We Are Closed For Christmas
We’re closed from Noon on 24th December and will be returning to work at 8:30 am, January 4th 2022.
Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year!
Tivoli Auto Services
We are an independent garage based in Hastings. If you have any issues with your car, or are unsure if you have any damage, bring your car down to our garage and a member of our friendly team will be happy to help. Prolonging any potential issues could lead to further, or worse problems, so just give us a call beforehand if you have any immediate queries.
Contact us today on 01424 442277 to get your car booked in as soon as possible. We are here to give any advice to help you get the most out of your vehicle.
