You’re driving smoothly, enjoying the rhythm of the road, when suddenly – thud! You’ve hit a pothole. The immediate concern is the potential damage to your vehicle. But what exactly can potholes do to your car, and how can you address it? Let’s dive in.Understanding Pothole DamagePotholes are a common menace, especially after the winter season when roads in many areas, including New Jersey, can be riddled with them. The damage they cause can range from minor cosmetic issues to significant mechanical problems.Identifying Pothole DamageThe first step in pothole damage repair is identifying the damage. While some damages are immediately visible, others might take time to manifest, affecting your vehicle’s maneuverability.Tires: The First Line of DefenseTires are the most vulnerable part of your vehicle when it comes to potholes. Common issues include sidewall bulges, tread separation, or even punctures. Uneven tire wear can result from alignment changes caused by the pothole, and deep potholes can damage the rims. If you notice uneven wear on your tires, it’s essential to monitor the situation. However, for other tire damages, consider replacing them as soon as possible.Wheels: Bearing the BruntWheels can get bent, cracked, or even fractured due to potholes. A bent wheel won’t roll smoothly, and it’s essential to check for any cracks, as they can lead to more significant issues. Additionally, hitting a pothole can misalign your wheels, affecting the vehicle’s handling.Steering and Suspension: The Shock AbsorbersThe suspension system softens the road bumps, but a sudden pothole can jolt it, leading to various problems. Signs of suspension issues include the car leaning to one side, loose handling, uneven tire wear, or unusual vibrations and sounds.Chassis, Body, and Exhaust: The UnderbellyCars with a low ride height might handle better but are more prone to pothole damage. Cosmetic damages include scratches on bumpers and side skirts. More severe damages involve scratches along the chassis leading to rust, or leaks and holes in the exhaust pipes, mufflers, or catalytic converters.Pothole Repair SolutionsOnce you’ve identified the damage, the next step is repair. Most steering and suspension issues can be resolved by replacing the worn or damaged part. For exhaust problems, due to health and environmental risks, it’s recommended to address them promptly. Cosmetic damages, while not urgent, should be fixed to maintain your vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.Preventing Pothole DamageWhile you can’t always avoid potholes, you can minimize their impact:
