Potholes mean more than bumpy rides for your backside or your morning coffee.
Vehicle damage caused by the holes can be costly. According to a 2016 AAA study, pothole damage cost U.S. motorists about $15 billion over the previous five years, about $3 billion annually.
Every “pothole season,” when roads begin to thaw and more holes start to appear, employees at McCarthy Tire Service in Scranton see cars bearing the standard scars: suspension issues, damaged tires and bent rims, said Adam Robinson, a tire technician and mechanic at the shop. The cost of repairs and extent and type of damage depends on the vehicle. For instance, high-end, more expensive cars like Mercedes Benzes and Audis are especially prone to rim damage, as those are made of alloys or softer metals in comparison to the wheels found on more common makes, like Toyotas or Hondas, Robinson said. Pothole damage repairs on upmarket vehicles are also generally pricier.
“The more expensive the car, the more expensive the parts,” Robinson said.
Drivers can take some protective measures with their vehicles to help minimize the chances hitting one causes damage. AAA also recommends the following:
Inspect tires: Make sure tires are properly inflated and have enough tread. Underinflated or badly worn tires are more likely to be damaged when hitting a pothole.
Inspect suspension: Make certain struts, shock absorbers and other suspension parts are in good condition. Changes in vehicle handling, excessive vibration or uneven tire wear can indicate damaged or worn components. Have the suspension inspected by a certified technician if you suspect problems.
Look ahead: Check the road ahead for potholes. Alert drivers may have time to avoid them.
Slow down: If a hole can’t be avoided, reduce speed. Hitting a pothole at higher speeds greatly increases the chance of damage to tires, suspension and wheels.
Beware of puddles: A puddle can disguise a deep pothole. Use care when driving through them and treat them as though they might be hiding potholes.
Check alignment: Hitting a pothole can knock the wheels out of alignment and affect the steering. If a vehicle starts pulling to the left or right, get it checked by a certified technician.
Recognize noises/vibrations: Any new or unusual noises after hitting a pothole should be checked out by a certified technician, as those could indicate tire, wheel or suspension damage.
Repair costs
These prices apply to most normal passenger cars, not high performance models, European highline vehicles or limited production exotics.
Tires: $100-$250 (including mounts and balance)
Tie rod: $100-$250
Control arm: $200-$400
Wheel alignment: $75-$150
Ball joint: $150-$300
Wheels: $75 (steel), $500 (alloy)
— STATS ACCORDING TO AAA