Pesky Potholes: 5 Signs A Pothole Has Damaged Your Vehicle

19 October 2015
 Categories: , Blog

Share

Potholes are common annoyance, especially in areas that receive a lot of rain or snowfall. While they aren't exactly dangerous, they can become a big problem for your car if you happen to drive over one. If you have recently driven over a pothole and don't know if your car is damaged, be on the lookout for these five common signs of damage caused by potholes:

1. Flat Tires

Your tires are the first thing to hit the offending pothole, so they are likely to encounter issues. The most common issue is a flat tire. It might immediately become flat; however, it might also take awhile. So when you can, pull over and examine the tires of your car. If they aren't flat yet, check to see if there are any puncture holes that may cause them to deflate later. You should also be on the lookout for bulging, as that can indicate a leak in the tire as well.

2. Damaged Rims

Another issue you might face due to a pothole is damaged rims. After driving over the hole, your rims may bend due to the weight of the car. So as mentioned above, pull over as soon as you can and visually inspect for any bends in the rims. If you notice any, get home or to an auto repair shop immediately so you do not cause further damage.

3. Undercarriage Issues

Your vehicle might also suffer undercarriage damage after driving over a pothole. Unfortunately, many forget to check their undercarriage and the damage continues to worsen over time. So once home, take a look at the underside of your vehicle for any damage. Be on the lookout for bending, leaking, or missing parts; as all of these can cause serious issues.

4. Odd Noises

Unfortunately, not all signs of damage are visual. So when driving your car after hitting a pothole, be sure to listen to it. Sometimes, your car may begin to make odd noises. If you hear grinding, squealing, or any other alarming noises do not ignore them. Your vehicle may be suffering from internal damage that isn't always visible, especially to a novice.

5. Driving Issues

Finally, you may notice that your car just doesn't perform like it used to. It might sway or bounce. It might not steer as easily. Or it might not work properly. So even if your car seems fine now, be wary and on the lookout for any potential signs that your car is damaged.

Unfortunately, most potholes cannot be avoided. So if you do drive over one, be prepared to take a good look at your vehicle for damages. While these five issues are more common to experience after driving over a pothole, they aren't inclusive. After hitting a pothole your vehicle can become injured in a number of ways, so it's best to take your car to a mechanic or have a mobile truck repair service come to you if you do not feel safe driving, to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive. Contact a company like C L Enterprises for more information.