Potholes form when water infiltrates the road surface and freezes as temperatures drop. This freezing process causes the ground beneath to expand, pushing the pavement upward. As the temperature rises again, the ground contracts back to its normal state, leaving the pavement elevated. When vehicles pass over this uneven surface, their weight often leads to cracks forming, eventually creating potholes.

Besides potentially damaging your tires and causing them to wear unevenly—reducing essential tread depth—potholes pose risks during wet weather. Reduced tread makes it harder for your tires to maintain traction with the road, increasing the likelihood of skidding. If you spot a pothole ahead, attempt to steer clear entirely or ensure all four wheels bypass it simultaneously to minimize potential damage.

Hitting potholes repeatedly can lead to premature wear on shock absorbers and struts. Shock absorbers help reduce excessive bouncing while driving, whereas struts contribute to keeping your vehicle stable and level. Each time you strike a pothole, you may feel vibrations travel through the chassis. Over time, these impacts degrade the shocks, leading to less effective damping, and dent the struts. Signs such as bumpier rides, unusual noises like squeaks, or difficulty braking could indicate compromised suspension components; professional inspection is advisable under these circumstances.

Another significant consequence of pothole-related damage involves steering alignment issues. Misaligned wheels can make your vehicle drift sideways without warning, requiring extra effort to correct direction manually. Additionally, noticing your steering wheel positioned crooked even when traveling straight or experiencing shaking upon acceleration should prompt immediate attention. Correcting steering alignment is crucial for safe operation since maintaining control of your vehicle could mean avoiding collisions altogether.

Should your automobile suffer any adverse effects from encountering potholes, DaSilva’s Auto Body offers comprehensive diagnostic services to pinpoint underlying concerns. From servicing engines and brakes to handling necessary bodywork repairs and enhancing exterior appearance, our skilled team ensures optimal functionality across all systems. With dedication to efficiency and timely completion, we aim to restore your ride’s original comfort and reliability. Reach out to our Naugatuck branch today to book an appointment and enjoy driving confidently once more.