Potholes are an unfortunate part of everyday driving, especially in regions with harsh winters and heavy traffic. These road hazards can sneak up on you and sometimes feel unavoidable. While it might seem like hitting a pothole now and then is just an annoyance, it can actually cause significant and sometimes expensive damage to your vehicle. So, how bad is it to drive through potholes?
Suspension and Alignment Damage
Your vehicle’s suspension system is designed to absorb bumps and keep your ride smooth. When you hit a pothole, especially at higher speeds, the sudden jolt can put a lot of stress on components like shocks, struts, control arms, and ball joints.
Repeated pothole impacts can knock your wheel alignment out of spec. Misalignment might not be obvious at first, but can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency. You may also notice your steering wheel pulling to one side or vibrating at higher speeds.
Tire and Wheel Problems
Potholes can damage your tires in several ways. The most common issues include sidewall bulges, tread separation, or punctures. A severe pothole can even bend or crack your wheel rim, leading to air leaks or making the tire unable to hold air at all.
Driving on a damaged tire or wheel is unsafe and can result in a blowout or further suspension issues. Always inspect your tires and wheels after a hard pothole hit, even if you don’t notice immediate changes in how the car drives.
Undercarriage and Exhaust System Damage
Many drivers forget about what’s underneath their car. Potholes, especially deeper ones, can scrape or dent the undercarriage. This may damage protective panels, fuel lines, brake lines, or the exhaust system.
A bent or cracked exhaust pipe can lead to increased noise, poor engine performance, or even dangerous exhaust leaks. If you hear new rattles or louder sounds from your exhaust after hitting a pothole, it’s a sign to have it checked immediately.
Steering System Strain
A hard pothole hit can also strain or damage your steering components, such as tie rods and steering rack mounts.
Symptoms of steering issues include difficulty turning, looseness in the steering wheel, or unusual noises when turning. Ignoring these warning signs can compromise your control of the vehicle and become a major safety concern.
Impact on Braking
Hitting a pothole can damage brake components indirectly by affecting wheel alignment and suspension geometry. In some cases, the force can even damage brake lines or ABS sensor wiring, reducing braking effectiveness.
If you notice a change in how your brakes feel or hear grinding or unusual noises after encountering a pothole, have your braking system inspected as soon as possible.
Cosmetic and Body Damage
Beyond mechanical damage, potholes can also cause cosmetic issues. Paint chips, dents in bumpers or rocker panels, and other bodywork damage are common if the impact is severe enough.
While these issues may not significantly impact drivability, they can reduce your car’s value and potentially lead to rust if left untreated.
Prevention Tips
While it’s impossible to avoid every pothole, there are steps you can take to minimize damage:
- Keep a safe distance from the car in front so you can spot potholes earlier.
- Avoid sudden braking when approaching a pothole; instead, slow down gradually.
- Make sure your tires are properly inflated — this helps them absorb impacts better.
- Stay alert during and after winter or heavy rain, as potholes tend to worsen during these times.
Have Your Vehicle Checked at Nerger’s Auto Express in Bound Brook, NJ
If you’ve hit a pothole recently, it’s wise to have your vehicle inspected for hidden damage, even if everything seems fine. At Nerger’s Auto Express in Bound Brook, NJ, our experienced technicians can check your suspension, alignment, tires, and steering components to ensure your car remains safe and reliable. Don’t let a simple pothole lead to major repairs — schedule your inspection today and drive with confidence.