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When driving, hitting a pothole every once in a while is inevitable, but do we know what actually happens to our vehicle when we hit these nasty road obstructions? Potholes can cause some serious damage to your car if not driven over with caution, which is why Pugh’s Tire and Service Center, your local tire store Greenville NC is here to help you learn how to handle potholes safely and minimize the damage done to your car and tires Washington NC.
What is a Pothole?
If you have never rattled your vehicle treading over a pothole, consider yourself lucky. A pothole is a deep underground cavity formed in a road or pavement that is caused by the natural erosion of rock. Many potholes are caused by water seeping into the soil underneath, which then freezes and thaws, weakening the road. This then causes the pavement to shift and crack under the pressure of vehicles continuously driving over. Eventually, the pavement gives and crumbles, creating a pothole.
How to Safely Handle a Pothole
Knowing how to safely maneuver around potholes, especially deep ones, is key to not damaging your vehicle and tires Washington NC. The experts at Pugh’s tire store Greenville NC suggest to start out by maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you when driving. This makes it easier to spot potholes ahead of time. Potholes should be safely avoided if possible, by either aligning it directly between your tires or by driving around it. In the case of the pothole being unavoidable, slow your vehicle down. Firmly grip the wheel to help you avoid losing control of your vehicle. Continue to drive through the pothole at an inching speed until all tires are clear of the obstruction. It is suggested to also use caution when approaching puddles of water as there could be potholes where water has gathered.
What Type of Damage Can Potholes Cause?
First off, always ensure your tires Washington NC are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended level, and your vehicle's suspension is in decent condition before driving. If your tire is low on air, potholes can cause your tire to pop and damage your rim and hubcaps. If not handled properly, potholes can cause alignment or suspension issues to your vehicle. Below are some signs to look out for after accidentally hitting a pothole too aggressively:
- One or more deflated tires
- Severe cracks or bulges in the tires
- Dents in the wheel rims
- The vehicle shaking and pulling to the left or right indicating an alignment problem
- Fluid leaks, which may mean your undercarriage is damaged
- Odd noises coming from the exhaust system
If you notice any of these issues, we suggest bringing your vehicle into Pugh’s Tire & Service Centers to have one of our experienced mechanics check it for damage as soon as possible.
Some potholes are unavoidable, but learning how to safely handle them on the road may help you save money and frustration down the road. The next time you see a pothole ahead, remember to slow down, and call your mechanic right away if you notice any issues arise with your vehicle. It might also be a good idea to notify your city or county transportation authorities so they are aware of potholes that need to be filled.
Tire Store Greenville NC, Pugh’s Tire and Service Center of Greenville, Washington, and Williamston, NC
From wheel alignments to engine diagnostics, Pugh's can do it all. We take our time with your vehicle to ensure that you can enjoy the smoothest, safest ride possible each and every time you get behind the wheel. The team at Pugh's takes pride in the articulate measures taken to sustain and extend your vehicle’s drivability. If your vehicle is in need of routine maintenance bring it in to Pugh's Tire & Service Centers or contact us today. We get our hands dirty so you can ride clean.
