Murfreesboro Auto Repair

After months of freezing temperatures and winter weather, one of the things you can definitely count on seeing is an increase in potholes during your daily commute. You certainly know by now that potholes make for an uncomfortable ride for both you and your passengers – but did you also know that they can cause damage to your vehicle? Learn more about how potholes can damage your vehicle, and some tips to help you avoid them when you’re driving.

Potholes = Bad for your Vehicle 

There are a number of different issues that hitting many, or very large, potholes can cause to your vehicle. The biggest risk from potholes is damage to your front tires or suspension. Potholes can cause underinflated or flat tires, cracks or bulges in sidewalls or tread, and even dents in your rims. They can also take your tires out of alignment, causing your vehicle to shake or pull to one side while driving down the road.

Another potential issue that potholes can cause is with your exhaust system. This can happen by a single large pothole causing your exhaust to hit the pavement, or from things simply jarring loose over time. You’ll usually notice exhaust issues when your vehicle is running, as it will sound strange or louder than usual. If this same situation also causes damage to your vehicle’s undercarriage, you might develop fluid leaks that will show as spots or puddles under your vehicle when it is parked.

How to Avoid Potholes

There are a few different tactics that you can use to try and avoid damage from potholes.

• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. This helps to ensure that you can see potholes coming, and try to avoid them.
• Check your tire pressure. Over or under inflated tires are more likely to be damaged by potholes.
• Drive slowly in areas that you know have potholes. Slower speeds mean that you’re both more likely to be able to avoid potholes, and that they are less likely to cause damage if you do hit them.
• Don’t drive through puddles. Puddles can often make potholes seem shallower than then are, or hide them entirely. Be cautious and avoid them whenever possible.

If you’re noticing any strange issues with your vehicle after hitting a pothole, it is best to have it checked out as soon as you can. Give us a call to set up an appointment for a free inspection, and let us help you to address any mechanical problems before they have the chance to get worse.

Distinctive Auto Repair provides customers in Murfreesboro and surrounding areas with high-quality auto repair and maintenance services for both domestic and foreign vehicles. We are a BBB Accredited auto repair facility that is staffed with ASE-certified technicians who use only state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and equipment when they are fixing vehicles. Whether your vehicle is in need of a small job or a major repair, put your trust in our team of experienced and skillful auto technicians.