How Potholes Damage Your Car – And the Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Winter and early spring often leave the roads around East Preston, Littlehampton and Rustington in much worse condition. Rain, frost and heavy traffic create potholes that seem to appear overnight – and they can cause more damage than many drivers realise. Even at low speed, a sharp impact can affect your suspension, steering, tyres or wheel alignment without showing obvious symptoms straight away.

At Hares Servicing and Repairs, we see pothole‑related problems every year, especially between February and April. Knowing what to look out for can save you money, keep you safe and prevent long‑term wear to essential components.

What Happens When You Hit a Pothole?

A pothole is a sudden, sharp‑edged impact. When your wheel drops into it, several parts absorb the shock at once:

• Suspension components take the brunt of the hit
• Alloy wheels can crack or buckle
• Tyres may suffer cuts, bulges or pressure loss
• Steering components can shift out of position
• Wheel alignment is often thrown off immediately

Small damage rarely stays small – it tends to worsen with normal driving.

1) Steering That Feels “Off”

Notice your steering wheel isn’t centred? Book an alignment check. A pull to one side, a heavier feel or new vibrations at the wheel often signals misalignment or stressed steering parts. These symptoms won’t fix themselves and can reduce stability at speed.

2) New Noises or Knocks

A loud bang at the moment you hit a pothole isn’t unusual. Ongoing noises are. Listen for:

• Knocking or clunking over bumps
• Rattles from the front or rear
• Creaking when turning
• A dull thud on uneven surfaces

These often point to worn bushes, bent components or a tired shock absorber.

3) Uneven or Rapid Tyre Wear

If one tyre starts wearing faster than the others, a pothole may have shifted alignment or stressed the suspension.

Look for:

• Wear on a single inner or outer edge
• Feathering or patchy wear
• Bulges or cuts on the sidewall

Uneven wear costs money and reduces grip – especially in wet weather.

4) Vibrations While Driving

A bent wheel, damaged tyre or misaligned suspension can all cause vibrations, commonly between 40–70 mph. You might feel it through the steering wheel, the seat or the floor.

Feeling new vibrations between 40–70 mph? Book an alignment and wheel inspection now – it stops minor pothole damage becoming an expensive repair.

5) Warning Lights Appearing

Sudden impacts can upset sensors. Tyre pressure, traction control or ABS lights may appear after a hit. Treat new warnings as a prompt to get things checked — they’re there to protect you.

Why Choose Hares Servicing and Repairs?

We’re a local garage for local people, proudly serving East Preston and the surrounding areas. You’ll see the same experienced team our regulars trust and you’ll always get clear explanations before any work goes ahead.

What drivers value about us:

• Highly qualified technicians across all makes and models
• Straightforward communication and no pressure
• Competitive pricing compared with main dealers
• Fast turnaround and flexible online booking
• Free vehicle health checks if something doesn’t feel right
• A community‑focused approach with honest advice

Whether you suspect pothole damage or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.

Ready to Book?

If you’ve hit a pothole recently or noticed any of the signs above, let’s get your car checked.

• Book online 24/7 for an instant price
• Drop in for a free health check
• We’ll explain any findings clearly and only proceed with work you approve

Book your appointment today and keep your car driving safely this spring.