Don't Let Potholes Throw Your Car Out of Whack: The Importance of Alignment After Pothole Encounters
Feb 08, 2024 - 1 minute read
We've all been there: cruising down the highway, enjoying the scenery, when suddenly - WHAM! You hit a pothole. It's an unsettling experience, but most of us move on, assuming the worst damage is a jolt to our coffee and a minor annoyance. However, the truth is, potholes can be a significant threat to both your vehicle and your safety. The impact can knock your wheels out of alignment, even if you don't see any immediate damage. This misalignment throws your car's entire system off-kilter, leading to a cascade of problems:
Uneven tire wear: Your tires are no longer making even contact with the road, causing them to wear down prematurely and unevenly. This not only costs you money but also compromises your safety.
Damage tires and bent wheels: Bulges, punctures, and blowouts become real threat, even at lower speeds. Got some sleek rims? Potholes can warp them, impacting handling and causing uneven tire wear.
Strain suspension components: Shocks, struts, and ball joints take a beating, potentially leading to premature wear and costly repairs.
Reduced fuel efficiency: Misaligned wheels create more friction with the road, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel.
Poor handling: A misaligned car can feel jittery and unpredictable, making it harder to control, especially in emergency situations.
We’re not the biggest fans of potholes either at Kruse Motors. We offer a COMPLIMENTARY alignment check with every service, ensuring ease of mind for our customers and could prevent future damage.
Don't wait for the potholes to win! Schedule regular wheel alignments, especially after hitting a pothole or noticing any of the warning signs mentioned above. It's a small investment that pays big dividends in terms of safety, performance, and overall car health. Remember, a well-aligned car is a happy car (and a happy driver!).