How Spring Potholes Can Seriously Damage Your Ride! | Laurel, MD

Winter weather puts a lot of wear and tear on our roads, a fact we’re all reminded of when navigating the jarring, uneven surfaces come spring. While all irregularities in the road can be disruptive, potholes pose a more severe road hazard. These nuisances typically develop due to the freeze-thaw cycle affecting groundwater beneath the pavement. Water enters cracks, freezes, and expands during winter, then melts, creating spaces that allow more water to penetrate, repeating the cycle and gradually compromising the road’s structural integrity. This process eventually causes the pavement to break apart, forming potholes of various sizes. Although drivers tend to steer clear of larger potholes, it’s important to understand that all potholes can be dangerous. King Kia of Laurel wants to emphasize the risk they pose to drivers and vehicles alike in this week’s blog. To assess potential damage from recent rough drives, consider scheduling a service appointment at King Kia of Laurel’s service center, where our certified professionals will ensure your vehicle is road-ready for safe driving.

Suspension Damage: 

• The suspension system, designed to absorb shocks, can be significantly affected by potholes. Components like shock absorbers, struts, and control arms can be damaged, leading to a rougher ride and decreased steering precision.

Alignment Issues: 

• Hitting a pothole can knock a car’s wheels out of alignment, leading to uneven tire wear and affecting the steering capabilities of the vehicle. Misalignment can also put stress on other vehicle components, increasing overall wear and tear.

Exhaust System Damage: 

• For vehicles that are lower to the ground, striking a deep pothole can cause the undercarriage to scrape against the ground, potentially damaging the exhaust system. This can lead to exhaust leaks, which are harmful both to the environment and the vehicle’s efficiency.

Tags: Car Maintenance, Driving Tips, Kia Service, King Kia Of Laurel, Laurel MD, Maintenance, Potholes, Road Hazards, Road Safety
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