Wheels Problems And Solutions
Could hitting a pothole deploy your airbags? Well, it’s pure physics: When you strike a pothole and hit the brakes, the vehicle will likely grind to a standstill and lean towards the depth of the hole. The front wheels, which bear the whole weight of the vehicle, are now the only points of contact. This force will then be transferred to the tires, via the vehicle’s body, and finally to the back seat sections of the car. That’s when the airbag is activated and deployed.
So how to avoid pothole damage?
These are a few expert tips from Reliance Auto Mechanic for minimizing pothole damage as much as possible.
Vehicle inspection:
- Always check your tires; one or two deflated tires are more likely to cause more damage if you hit a pothole. Severe cracks in the tires or dents in the wheel rim are also inconvenient. Maintain a proper pressure level and keep them properly inflated.
- Check your steering and alignment systems: if the vehicle is shaking left and right, you will be unable to control it if you hit a pothole.
- To maintain clear vision, inspect your windshield wipers.
- Maintain and inspect your lighting system regularly to ensure that you can see and be seen.
- Ongoing maintenance of the Suspension System; The suspension system absorbs road imperfections, resulting in a safe and comfortable ride.
Driving Carefully:
Avoid driving on low vision roads during night times. Low vision will reduce your ability to see the potholes.
- Keep your windshield clear and clean so that a pothole does not catch you off guard.
- Turn on lights to improve your long-distance vision.
- Read the road signs; If there are any potholes or road or road repair, there will be warning signs or patches of gravel to help you be more cautious.
- Ensure a stable distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. This fundamental driving rule not only keeps you safe but also allows you to spot potholes on the road.
- Drive slowly; If you are aware that you are driving on a pothole-infested road, drive more slowly and carefully. Speed is important; if you were driving at a reasonable speed, you might be able to pass over it without causing any damage.
- Keep your hands firmly on the steering wheel; this will help you avoid losing control of your vehicle while driving over a pothole.
- Potholes are more likely to be treated as speedbumps: If you must drive over a pothole, slow down and treat it as a speedbump to avoid damage to your tires, rims, or undercarriage.
- Don’t be aggressive with your steering changes. It is preferable to drive over a pothole than to cause a head-on collision or a side-swipe accident.
- Avoid puddles and slow down when you see a poorly maintained road. Puddles usually hide potholes in wet weather, and you won’t notice them until your vehicle hits them.
- Use caution when sharing the road; any sudden change in the direction of a moving vehicle can result in serious injury to pedestrians and cyclists.
What Signs Indicate Pothole Damage?
- Your car’s steering wheel is trembling: This might be a scratched tire or rim.
- The steering wheel appears to be misaligned. If this happens, have your car’s alignment checked as soon as possible.
- Inspect your exhaust system if you hear strange noises after hitting a pothole.
- A flat tire; driving on a flat tire can result in severe wheel damage; pull over immediately and inspect it.
If you noticed one or more of these signs after hitting a pothole then call 905 457 6550, when you need to find the best auto repair shop Brampton, ON has to offer make sure you call Reliance Auto Mechanic. Skilled, trained technicians will give your pocket a break. Don’t wait to call your Trusted Auto Repair Shop today!