Potholes and your car – how much damage can they really cause?

Potholes are an unavoidable part of driving in many regions, and most drivers encounter them regularly. But how much damage can they actually cause to your vehicle? In this article, we explain the types of damage potholes can inflict, what happens to your wheels during impact, how to react when facing a pothole, and some common misconceptions drivers have about them.

What damage can potholes cause to a car?

Potholes can create a wide range of issues, including:

Tires: Punctures, bulges, or even blowouts that reduce grip and lead to air leaks.
Wheels: Sudden impacts can bend or crack rims, compromise air sealing, and cause slow leaks. Wheel bearings may also be damaged, leading to vibration, noise, and in extreme cases, wheel detachment.
Suspension: Shocks, springs, and control arms may be harmed, reducing comfort and handling precision.
Steering system: Pothole impacts can shift or damage components, leading to steering vibration or reduced accuracy.
Undercarriage: Deep potholes can damage the exhaust system, catalytic converter, or oil pan, resulting in leaks and severe mechanical issues.

What happens to wheels when hitting a pothole?

Driving through a pothole delivers a sharp impact to the rim. This can cause deformation, leading to air leaks, vibrations, or in severe cases, cracks and fractures. The seal between the tire and wheel may also be compromised, causing gradual pressure loss and reduced driving safety.

How to react when approaching a pothole

• Reduce speed: Slow down before hitting the pothole to minimize the impact force.

• Avoid sudden braking: Braking right before the impact increases the load on the front wheels and raises the risk of damage.

• Hold the steering wheel firmly: Maintain control of the vehicle throughout the impact.

• Avoid when safe: If traffic conditions allow, carefully steer around the pothole, but avoid sudden swerves that may cause accidents.
  
  

Common misconceptions about potholes

• “Small potholes don’t cause damage”: Even small potholes can cause cumulative damage over time, especially with repeated impacts.

• “Low-profile tires are more durable”: In reality, low-profile tires are more vulnerable because they have less rubber to absorb shocks.

• “If the car feels fine afterward, there’s no damage”: Problems with suspension or steering may not appear immediately but can worsen over time.
  
  

Conclusion

Potholes are a common challenge that can cause significant damage to your vehicle. Being aware of the risks, knowing how to handle potholes safely, and avoiding the belief that they only cause minor issues are essential for long-term vehicle health. Regular inspections and maintenance by a Wheel Daddy partner help prevent small issues from turning into major and costly repairs.