Cheltenham's Friendly Independent Garage

Potholes and Your Car’s Suspension

As drivers, we all know how frustrating it can be to encounter a pothole on the road. Not only can it be a jarring experience, but it can also lead to damage to our cars, particularly to the suspension system. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at how car suspension works and why potholes can cause problems for it.

Car Suspension Basics

The suspension system in a car is responsible for a number of critical functions. First and foremost, it helps to provide a comfortable ride for passengers by absorbing bumps and other imperfections in the road surface. The suspension also helps to keep the wheels in contact with the road, which is essential for maintaining control of the car. Additionally, the suspension system plays a role in steering, braking, and accelerating the vehicle.

There are several key components that make up a typical car suspension system. These include:

Springs: Springs are the most basic component of a suspension system, and they work by absorbing shock and reducing the impact of bumps on the road. They come in a variety of different types, including coil springs and leaf springs.

Shock absorbers: Shock absorbers work in conjunction with springs to further reduce the impact of bumps and to prevent the car from bouncing excessively. They do this by converting the kinetic energy generated by the springs into heat and this heats then dissipates into the atmosphere.

Struts: Struts are similar to shock absorbers, but they also provide structural support to the suspension system. They are typically used in MacPherson strut suspension systems, which are commonly found in front-wheel-drive cars.

Control arms: Control arms are used to connect the wheels to the car’s chassis. They play a critical role in maintaining the proper alignment of the wheels and in controlling the movement of the suspension system.

How Potholes Affect Suspension

Potholes are a common problem on many roads, particularly in areas with harsh winters or heavy traffic. These depressions in the road surface can range in size from small cracks or holes to large craters. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including freeze-thaw cycles, heavy vehicles, and poor road maintenance.

When a car hits a pothole, the impact can be felt throughout the suspension system. The springs and shock absorbers are compressed as the wheel drops into the hole, and then they rebound as the wheel comes back up. This rapid movement can cause the car to bounce and can make it difficult for the driver to maintain control.

In addition to the immediate jolt felt by the car’s occupants, hitting a pothole can also cause long-term damage to the suspension system. The impact of hitting the hole can cause parts to become misaligned or bent, and it can also damage the springs and shock absorbers. Over time, this can lead to a variety of problems, including uneven tyre wear, decreased handling performance, and a rougher ride.

Preventing Suspension Damage from Potholes

While it’s impossible to completely avoid all potholes, there are a few steps that drivers can take to minimise the risk of damage to their car’s suspension system. These include:

Be alert: Try to be aware of the road surface ahead of you and look out for potholes or other obstacles. This can give you a few extra seconds to adjust your speed or avoid the pothole altogether.

Slow down: If you do encounter a pothole, slow down as much as possible before hitting it. This can reduce the impact of the hole on your suspension system and can minimise the risk of damage.

Keep your tyres properly inflated: Tyres that are underinflated are more susceptible to damage from potholes. Make sure to check your tyre pressure regularly and keep your tyres properly inflated.

Maintain your suspension system: Regular maintenance of your car’s suspension system can also help to prevent damage from potholes. This can include having the system inspected and serviced by a qualified mechanic, particularly if you frequently drive on rough roads or encounter a lot of potholes. If any parts are found to be worn or damaged, they should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further problems developing and other components being damaged.

Additionally, some cars may be better equipped to handle potholes than others. Cars with larger wheels and tyres or with specialized suspension systems may be better able to absorb the impact of hitting a pothole. If you frequently drive on rough roads, it may be worth considering a car with a more robust suspension system.

Conclusion

While potholes can be a frustrating and potentially damaging problem for drivers, understanding how the suspension system works and taking steps to prevent damage can help to mitigate the risk. By staying alert on the road, slowing down when necessary, keeping your tyres properly inflated, and maintaining your suspension system, you can help to ensure a smoother, safer ride for you and your passengers.

If you think you may have a problem with any part of your car’s suspension or would like it checked for peace of mind, then please contact Motor Ninjas. Our friendly team of experienced mechanics will be happy to help.