What problems can potholes cause?

As cold weather and increased rainfall (but still a rare occurrence of snow) begin to arrive in the Phoenix area, one of the problems many drivers will face this season is potholes. It's right. The combination of low nighttime temperatures and daytime thaws directly causes an increase in potholes. While the Arizona Department of Transportation is trying to fix them as quickly as possible, potholes can be a major problem for drivers. 

But why? What exactly are the problems potholes create for vehicles? Read on to learn about vehicle issues that can occur when hitting a pothole, especially if you've encountered multiple potholes. 

What to do with a pothole in the road 

Every good driver should be able to notice any potential obstacle on the road in time, including potholes. Two pothole factors will affect the damage to your vehicle: the speed at which you hit the pothole и pothole size. 

So, the first thing you should do when you spot a pothole ahead is to try to avoid it, but remember to do it safely. Do not swerve into another lane or onto a curb in an attempt to avoid a pothole. This will do more harm than good. Careless turning or dodging a pothole is one of the biggest problems that potholes can cause in a road. If you cannot avoid a pothole safely, remember that you are still in control of your speed when hitting the pothole. This means that you can reduce your speed significantly if it is safe to do so to minimize any damage your vehicle may suffer from a pothole. 

Car Pothole Damage: Tires

Of course, car tires are the most vulnerable part of a car when it comes to potholes. When you're driving over a pothole, especially if you're going fast, the tire can have sidewall bulges, tread separation, or, in the worst case, a puncture that causes a flat tire almost immediately (trust us: we've been there). As a quick tip, cold air directly lowers tire pressure and also causes more potholes that can damage tires, make sure you're prepared for the inevitable low tire pressure. 

Vehicle Pothole Damage: Wheels

Potholes can have a negative effect on your vehicle's wheels. Depending on where your tire or wheel hits the pothole, there may be chips or cracks on the wheel. This prevents the tire from being sealed, securely sealed and, if the wheel is sufficiently damaged, from spinning the wheel. A bent wheel does not roll smoothly, which affects the overall performance of your vehicle. 

Car Pothole Damage: Steering and Suspension

Significant or permanent pothole damage will also affect your vehicle's steering and suspension. These problems include your vehicle pulling in one direction, unusual vibrations or sounds, and a feeling of loss of control. 

Vehicle Pothole Damage: Chassis, Body and Exhaust

What many people don't think about when driving through a pothole is how it can damage your car's undercarriage, body, or exhaust system. This is especially true for vehicles with low ground clearance. Potholes can scratch low-hanging bumpers or side skirts, or worse, scratch the undercarriage, which can lead to rust, leaks, or holes. You may notice this when your car makes louder noises, strange noises, or poor performance. 

Don't Let Potholes Ruin Your Winter

With rain, sleet, snow, traffic jams, potholes and more, winter can be an elevated time for traffic accidents. Be intentionally careful when you drive this winter to avoid anything that could harm your car or you. But if you do run into a pothole, feel free to contact Performance Muffler for exhaust and other services. 

Performance Muffler, the best shop for custom exhaust systems since 2007.

Performance Muffler has a team of true car enthusiasts who do an exceptional job. We can modify your exhaust, improve your vehicle's performance, or repair your vehicle. Find out more about us or read our blog for vehicle tips and ideas.