Checking Your Car After a Pothole Impact: A Comprehensive Guide

Hitting a pothole can sometimes result in subtle damage that may not be immediately visible. Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition after such an impact is crucial for both safety and performance. Here's a detailed guide on what to inspect after hitting a pothole.

Tire Inspection

One of the first things to check after a pothole impact is your tires. Look for any visible damage such as bulges, cuts, or punctures. In addition, check the tire pressure to make sure it has not changed. Proper tire pressure is essential for both safety and fuel efficiency.

Wheel Inspection

Inspect your wheels for any signs of bending or cracks. A bent wheel can lead to issues with tire wear and handling. Even if the wheel appears to be fine, a more thorough inspection might reveal hidden damage.

Suspension Inspection

Listen carefully for any unusual noises when driving, such as clunks or rattles. These sounds may indicate damage to the suspension system. Pay special attention to areas like control arms, bushings, and shock absorbers. These components are often the first to show signs of wear due to pothole impacts.

Alignment Check

If you notice your car pulling to one side or if the steering feels off, it might be a sign that your vehicle needs an alignment. While it's possible to eyeball an alignment, using a laser-guided machine is the most accurate way to ensure perfect alignment. A simple budget-friendly method would be to use a string to check the alignment.

Underbody Inspection

Perform an underbody inspection to check for any leaks or damage to components such as the oil pan, exhaust system, or other undercarriage parts. This check is important to prevent potential leaks that could lead to further damage or engine problems.

Professional Inspection

It's a good idea to have a professional mechanic inspect your vehicle, especially if you notice any changes in handling or performance. Dealerships often offer free inspections but may try to upsell repairs. It's important to use this information to further investigate and decide what is necessary.

DIY Inspection

If you prefer to inspect your vehicle yourself, here are some steps:

Begin by checking the tires for any abnormalities such as bubbles or damage. Inspect the wheels for signs of bending or cracks. Put the vehicle on a lift or jack stands (if you are a DIY enthusiast) and inspect the control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, and other suspension components for leaks, bent or warped parts, and torn bushings. Shake the wheel to test for any issues, especially if the pothole only hit one side of the vehicle. Damage to the wheel bearing is unlikely, but checking everything is never a bad idea. Use a laser-guided machine or a string to check the alignment. Finally, take the car for a test drive and pay attention to how it handles, especially when going around corners or over bumps.

Remember, cars can be quite complex machines. Unless you have a genuine interest in how they work, it's best to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic or dealership. Most dealerships offer free inspections, but they might try to upsell repairs. Use the information provided to make an informed decision for the best care of your vehicle.

By following these steps, you can ensure your car is safe and performs optimally after a pothole impact. If you have any further questions, feel free to consult a professional mechanic or dealership for expert advice.