How to Avoid Pothole Damage
Potholes can be a frustrating and costly menace on the roads. These road hazards can cause discomfort during your drive and inflict significant damage to your vehicle, potentially leading to accidents. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk of pothole damage. In this blog post, we will explore some practical tips to help you navigate potholes and preserve your vehicle's health.
Drive Slowly
Hitting a pothole at high speed will negatively affect your vehicle even more than when driving at an average or lower speed; that is why, if you know you’re going to be driving on a road riddled with potholes, it’s important to slow down in order to navigate them properly.
Keep the Distance
This allows you to increase your visibility ahead and spot potholes, which you won’t be able to spot if you’re tailgating or driving too close to another road user.
Make Sure Your Tyres Are Properly Inflated and in Good Condition
Ensuring your car’s tyres are in good condition can make a big difference in how your vehicle will approach potholes. In fact, under-inflated tyres may not be resistant enough to withstand the negative impact of hitting a pothole, whereas properly inflated ones give you that extra peace of mind, protecting you from impact and minimising its damage. If you’re unsure about your tyre pressure, consult your car manual or check on the driver’s door or even under the fuel cap, as one of these locations will show what the recommended pressure for your tyres is. Furthermore, make sure to regularly check your tyres for excessive wear and any dents or punctures.
Don’t Slam Your Brakes
You shouldn’t do so as it causes more damage than expected since your vehicle will tilt forward, adding extra stress to your front suspension. The best course of action would be to slow down in plenty of time and coast over the pothole. However, if you can’t brake early enough, it’s advisable to continue at the same speed instead of braking abruptly. Also, don’t swerve around the pothole last minute; this may lead to your tyre hitting it at an angle, causing even more damage.
Eyes On the Road
By looking ahead at the vehicle directly in front of you, you can spot potholes beforehand, allowing you to avoid them and their damage. This is even more important when driving in wet conditions, as a puddle may hide a deeper pothole.
Hold Onto Your Steering Wheel
When you’re driving onto a pothole, hold your steering wheel firmly to avoid losing control of your car, as otherwise, the dip in the road may cause your vehicle to change direction abruptly.
The easiest way to approach a pothole is to drive around it. However, we understand that sometimes when it’s dark or when driving during adverse conditions, it may not always be possible to do so; that is why the second-best thing is to slow down in plenty of time, this will lead to less damage to your tyres and suspension. Also, as mentioned above, always keep your space from the vehicle in front as this will allow you to be even more aware of your surroundings, spotting potholes in plenty of time.
If you feel like a pothole has damaged your car, stop in a safe place and inspect your tyres for any puncture or bulge and your wheel rim for any dents. In addition, common indicators of potential pothole damage could be fluid leaks, unusual noise coming from your vehicle’s exhaust or wear underneath your car. If you notice any of these signs, make sure to get your vehicle checked in at your nearest Perrys.
While potholes may seem unavoidable at times, following these preventive measures can go a long way in reducing the risk of damage to your vehicle. Stay vigilant, maintain adequate tire pressure, reduce speed, and be cautious around puddles and standing water. Remember to prioritise regular vehicle maintenance to ensure your car is in optimal condition. By taking these steps, you can preserve your vehicle's health and minimise the inconvenience and expenses associated with pothole damage.
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