Freeze-thaw cycles in winter create potholes.
A hard hit can cause hidden damage.
Check afterwards
- ▸Bulges or cuts on tyres
- ▸Dented or cracked wheels
- ▸Steering pulling or vibration
- ▸Knocking from suspension
Avoiding potholes
Leave space so you can see the road ahead, and slow down on damaged roads.
Claiming
In some places you can claim from the road authority. Photograph the pothole and damage, and record location.
See also
Our wheel alignment guide.
Driving technique
If you cannot avoid a pothole safely, slow down before it and release the brake just before the wheel enters it. Braking hard while in a pothole compresses the suspension and increases the impact. Hold the steering firmly and keep a straight line. Never swerve suddenly into another lane to avoid a pothole. Correct tyre pressures also help absorb impacts — underinflated tyres are more easily damaged.
Puddles can hide deep potholes, so treat standing water with caution.
CAUTION: This is general automotive information, not professional mechanical advice. Always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications and service schedule, and have brakes, steering, tyres, and other safety-critical systems inspected by a qualified mechanic.