How to Avoid Tire Sidewall Damage From Potholes?

You ran a big pothole, now you have a chipped tire. Sadly, this situation happens often. Is there anything drivers can do to avoid a damaged sidewall in such situations?

A bent tire is just the first issue road hazard damage (especially potholes) can result in. For this reason, it is crucial we know what to do after the fact.

Whether the result is a tire lump or a ripped tire, drivers need to know how to avoid them. So, here's everything you need to know about tire damage from pothole surfaces.

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What to Do After Hitting a Pothole?

Tire damage from potholes can cause various issues. From affecting the vehicle's performance to resulting in steering and comfort problems, they can be the root of all your problems.

In order to void such issues from escalating, vehicle owners must inspect their vehicles after driving over potholes. But, what exactly are you looking for?

There are different forms of tire damage that result from hitting potholes. Look out for the following signs of damaged tires:

• Bulging tire wall - Tire sidewall damage causes a lump in tire to form that bulges out
• Steering issues - If the vehicle is pulling to the side, the alignment, steering, and suspension parts might be damaged
• Vibrations - Abnormal vibrations felt through the steering wheel, seat, or floor can be the indicator of damaged rims or tires
• Noise - Irregular noise levels can be symptoms of a bent rim, or some other part running against the tire and wheel
• Dashboard warning light - Mostly due to air pressure loss, resulting in a flat tire

Keep in mind that not all issues are repairable. A tire bulge repair is not possible, as the inner tire sidewall tear damages the belts. Pothole damage might result in you having to purchase new tires.

However, pothole damage can cause problems for the vehicle as well. The most common issues are:

• Rim damage - Aluminum-based rims can get bent after hitting a pothole, which can lead to other serious problems with the vehicle.
• Undercarriage - Hitting the bottom of the vehicle can dent or puncture the vehicle, which can lead to rusting
• Exhaust system - A damaged exhaust system can be the root of unnatural car noises

Pothole Damage Can be More Serious Than You Expect

Unfortunately, undiagnosed pothole damage can easily result in more serious issues. Running over one in inclement weather might seem like a fleeting moment, but you might walk away with more than just a damaged tire.

Depending on the size of the pothole and the speed you are driving, issues can range from harmless to dangerous. However, often these dangers do not show themselves immediately as there are different tire damage types. So, if you suspect anything off, have your vehicle checked.

Expect the Following Damages After Hitting Potholes

A huge pothole doesn't just cause tread and sidewall tire damage. Other vehicle parts will be damaged as well. Tire damage signs can be easy to notice, but harder to fix. For this reason, it is important that you have the vehicle inspected after running over a deep pothole.

Look out for the following after hitting a pothole:

• Uneven tire wear or damaged tire sidewall
• Bent wheels
• Damaged shocks and struts
• Suspension system damage
• Steering issues caused by misalignment
• Damage to the exhaust system
• Possible engine damage

How to Avoid Potholes? (Or at Least Soften the Impact)

Your best bet at avoiding a small chunk of tire sidewall missing or other damage to tire sidewall is to prevent pothole damage in the first place.

In most cases, this is possible with a few simple steps. Regular tire maintenance, optimal driving habits, and a bit of vigilance are all you need to protect your tires.

Let's see what drivers need to keep an eye out for to fend off damaged wheel and tire combos.

Monitor Your Tire Air Pressure

Maintaining the correct tire pressure levels is the first step to avoiding tire wall damage. But, how is this possible?

Keeping the tires are the manufacturer's recommended air pressure levels will allow them properly function. A deformed tire, whether it is over- or underinflated, will not be able to withstand the impact damage caused by road hazards.

By ensuring the tires are at their correct psi levels, we make sure they run as they should. This gives a small reinforcement against the pothole ahead.

Additionally, a pothole popped tire occurs when heat builds up along the tread area. This is more prone to happen when the tires are run with incorrect pressure levels.

Allow More Spacing in Traffic

Slowing down and leaving enough space between you and the car in front of you will give you the advantage you need.

Since sidewall damage on tires is not repairable, it is best to avoid pothole damage as often as possible. Yes, even minor tire sidewall damage can be dangerous.

For this reason, following the car in front of you at a safe distance is crucial. It will give you enough time to notice road damage, and maneuver around it. Additionally, avoid driving on cracked pavement as often as you can, as these can cause versatile types of tire damage.

Drive With Caution in Harsh Weather

AVOID PUDDLES!!! is the first rule of driving in bad weather conditions. We cannot stress this enough!

Even hitting pothole at low speed can cause damage, if the pothole is deep enough - and you won't be able to estimate its depth when it is flooded with water. Tire damages, like a tear in tire sidewall or tire bead damage, are often the result of hidden dangers on the road.

Therefore, slow down your driving speed and be cautious when driving. Try to maneuver around anything you deem suspicious.

Too Late to Avoid the Pothole? Control the Impact

Sometimes it is not possible to avoid road hazards. To fend off a pothole-caused flat tire, or any other tire damage, it is important that you keep control of your vehicle when you run over a pothole.

If the pothole cannot be avoided, here's what you should do:

• Take your foot off the gas
• Hold the steering wheel steady
• Do not brake

This will ensure you have full control of the vehicle when the impact occurs, helping to minimize the possibility of tread and side tire damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can You Drive on a Broken Tire Belt?

The simple answer would be to not drive if there is a broken belt in tire sidewall. Such tire side damage is very dangerous and these tires should be taken off the vehicle immediately. However, if you are stuck with a broken belt tire, do not drive on it for more than 50 miles. Careful driving is a must!

What Can Puncture a Tire?

Unfortunately, many things can result in a tire puncture. From sharp objects to potholes, tires face danger during their performance. If the punctures are deep enough, the tires will lose air pressure. For this reason, it is important to do all we can to prevent tire damage.

Can You Drive With a Bent Rim?

While it is possible to drive with bent rims, it is definitely not recommended. Not only does tire rim damage not hold air pressure properly, but it can be the cause of other vehicle-related issues. Fix dented rims as soon as possible to prevent further problems from developing.

Can Hitting a Pothole Mess Up Alignment?

Yes, sadly, the dangers of potholes include messing up the vehicle's alignment. Even a small impact can cause alignment or suspension damage. Therefore, it is important to inspect the vehicle whenever you hit a pothole, as issues related to pothole problems can arise later as well.