Potholes are holes and divots in the roadway. They can vary from small and shallow to large and deep. Potholes are not only unsightly but can also be damaging to your car. In fact, hitting a large pothole may result in damages so severe that you need to call a tow truck. Here’s what you need to know about potholes.

The Freeze & Thaw Cycle Created by Potholes

When water finds its way into cracks in the road, it pools underneath the roadway. When the temperature drops below freezing, the water turns to ice, which expands the asphalt. When the temperatures warm up, the ice thaws and leaves space under the asphalt that allows more water in.

This process keeps repeating, damaging the asphalt, and, combined with normal traffic on the roadway, creates potholes.

How are Potholes Fixed?

During the winter, potholes cannot be repaired permanently. Instead, they are filled in with a cold mix that can harden without special equipment or heat. This will temporarily patch the pothole. During warmer weather, the road crews can use a more permanent method of fixing potholes. This includes using an asphalt mix and a compacting device.

Can Potholes Damage a Vehicle?

While potholes are a nuisance to watch out for, some can cause significant damage to your vehicle. If you hit a deep pothole, it can throw your car out of alignment or even bend your rims. This results in an undrivable car and calls for a tow truck service. Other damages can include puncturing the tire, exhaust damage, and more.

To prevent pothole damage to your car, try to avoid them. This means leaving plenty of room between you and the car in front of you. You may also need to take an alternate route until repairs have been made to fix the problem.

If you hit a pothole and need a tow truck, contact Engel’s Auto Service & Towing. Serving Cincinnati, OH, for over 50 years, Engel’s Auto Service & Towing offers speedy service that you can rely on. Check out their website for a full list of services or call them at (513) 385-8246 for your towing needs.