Pavement is more durable, cleaner, and safer to drive on than loose gravel or dirt. However, fluctuating temperatures can cause expansion and cracks in your road paving material. Over time, moisture can penetrate pavement and create pockets that eventually collapse and become potholes. Potholes are simpler and cheaper to repair the earlier you catch them. If you ever roll over one, large or small, pull over immediately and inspect the most vulnerable areas of your vehicle.

How Do Potholes Damage Your Car?

1. Tires

The sudden impact from hitting potholes and irregular road paving can cause bulges on tires or even blowouts. Pressure usually builds on the sides of the tire walls, so check there for signs of damage.

If you see any defects, replace the tire right away. Waiting for further damage to the tire puts your car at risk for more expensive problems.

2. Wheels

Check for dents or cracks where the rim and tire meet. Distorted wheels can compromise the seal between the two.

You may also notice rhythmic bumping as your tire rolls. This is a clear sign that your wheels are not rotating evenly.

3. Alignment

Most standard vehicles aren’t equipped with suspension components adequate to sustain impacts from potholes or other road paving defects, especially at high speeds.

If potholes damage your struts, shocks, or other steering components, your car may begin to pull to one side. If left unresolved, your tires will wear unevenly and have to be replaced more often. Always get a realignment done after hitting a pothole and before permanent damage is done to your frame.

4. Body

If your vehicle has low suspension, you can count on body damage from potholes. Check the underside of your bumpers for dents, scratched paint, or exposed metal. Even minor body damage can turn into rust over time, especially at the bottom of your vehicle, which often gets exposed to water on pavement.

 

If you have a pothole on your driveway that you’re constantly hitting, contact C.B. Paving Inc. Based in Bulverde, TX, this company services residential and ranch roads. Call (830) 980-2880 to ask questions about asphalt repairs or to schedule a new road paving job. Check out their gallery online to visualize how stunning your new ranch road will look.