Pothole Problems: How To Know If Your Vehicle Suffered Damage
Potholes are a major problem for many roadways. It is so frustrating to hit one with your tire, as it can do significant damage to your car. The damages can range from a flat tire to a bent rim but can do major damage to other parts of your car as well. Not only is it an inconvenience to suffer this damage, but it can also get expensive making repairs. If you hit a pothole, it is important to know what your next steps should be. Here are some things to look at if you hit a major pothole and fear damage.
Look at the Physical Condition of the Tires and Rims
After you hit a pothole and can get stopped, inspect the tires and rims for anything that looks wrong. Even a novice to cars and tires will be able to tell if there is a problem with tires and rims just by looking at them. Check for any bulges on the sidewalls of the tire and check for dents in the rims.
Check for Any Fluid Leaking from Under the Vehicle
Potholes can do major damage to the underside of your vehicle. If you see any fluid leaking on the ground, you could have engine damage as well as tire damage. In addition to looking for fluid, also look for any warning lights on your dashboard that indicate engine trouble.
Pay Attention to Your Steering
Another way to know if the pothole has caused damage is if your steering is off. If your car is pulling one way or another rather than straight, your car could be out of alignment. This is a common result of hitting a pothole.
Take Steps to Prevent Further Damage
Ideally, there would be no potholes, and the roadways would be smooth as silk. Unfortunately, that is not possible, so it is essential to take some steps to prevent more damage in the future.
One thing you can do is make sure you always have the correct air pressure in your tires. Tires that are underinflated or overinflated are more likely to suffer damage when they hit a pothole.
Also, do not follow too closely to those in front of you. Leaving some space allows you to see the road better so you can see potholes before you hit them. This way, you can adjust your position in the roadway to possibly avoid a straight hit. For more information, contact a company like East Bay Tire Co.
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