If you’ve seen the early signs of a pothole forming in your asphalt driveway, don’t ignore it. You might be trying to save on the expense of getting the pothole refilled, but the repercussions of doing so could cost a lot more. These dents can wreak havoc on cars—especially on your driveway, where you are likely to encounter the same one repeatedly. The following guide looks at some of the consequences of this blemish.

What Parts of a Vehicle Can Be Harmed by Potholes?

1. Tires

It stands to reason that tires will be a pothole casualty given that they touch the road. However, tire damage is not always apparent. You’ll rarely get an immediate flat tire from driving over one. Instead, it will manifest itself as separated tread, dented or cracked rims, or a bulging sidewall. If they regularly show signs of low pressure—even though you consistently put air into them—get the issue checked out to reduce the likelihood of problems on the road.

2. Steering

When you hit a pothole frequently, it can knock out your wheel alignment. If hit often enough and in the same place, it needn’t even be at speed to cause damage. You’ll know if this is so because your steering will start to pull to one side. However, wonky steering may be a sign of something more severe—your car’s misalignment could be due to a bent car frame. Talk to a mechanic for confirmation of the car’s problem and to have it fixed.

3. Undercarriage

The larger the hole in your asphalt driveway, the further the car has to fall into it—and the more it must strain to get out. If your car does this consistently, the driveway will scrape the undercarriage every time, which exposes you to a lot of potential damage. The exhaust may be cracked or even pulled from its brackets, and you could wear a hole into the undercarriage, which not only allows fluid to leak through but also makes you vulnerable to rust setting in.

For over 30 years, Crone Pro Seal in Kalispell, MT, has helped area residents seal their asphalt driveways to protect them from the elements, which can contribute to pothole formation. This not only helps increase curb appeal, but also protects your vehicle—and your wallet. Call them at (406) 752-1267 to schedule an appointment or request a quote. Visit their website today for more on their offerings.