Potholes are one of the most common hazards Australian drivers face on roads—from busy Melbourne streets to regional highways. Hitting a pothole can feel like a sudden jolt or thud that shakes your whole car. While some pothole hits are minor, others can cause serious damage to your tyres and wheels.
Knowing how to check your tyres after hitting a pothole is important to avoid costly repairs or dangerous driving situations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to look for and what to do if you suspect damage.
Why Potholes Are Dangerous for Tyres
Potholes vary in size and depth, but they all pose a risk to your vehicle’s tyres and suspension. The sudden impact can cause:
- Tyre sidewall bulges or bubbles
- Punctures or cuts in the tyre tread or sidewall
- Bent or cracked rims
- Loss of tyre pressure
- Misalignment leading to uneven tyre wear
Ignoring tyre damage can lead to blowouts, poor handling, and increased accident risk.
Step 1: Pull Over Safely and Inspect Visually
If you feel a strong hit from a pothole while driving, safely pull over as soon as you can. Check all four tyres carefully. Look for:
- Any obvious cuts, tears, or punctures on the tread and sidewall
- Bulges or bubbles on the sidewall—these happen when the internal cords break and the tyre’s structure weakens
- Signs of cracking or dry rot, which pothole damage can worsen
Don’t just check the tyre you think hit the pothole; sometimes the impact can affect adjacent tyres or even the spare.
Step 2: Check Tyre Pressure
Use a tyre pressure gauge to check if any tyre has lost pressure. Low pressure might indicate a slow puncture or rim damage causing an air leak.
If you notice significant pressure loss, it’s best to avoid driving far and get the tyre inspected by a professional.
Step 3: Look for Wheel and Rim Damage
Potholes often cause bent or cracked rims, which can be harder to spot but are just as dangerous. Signs of rim damage include:
- Visible bends or dents along the rim edge
- Cracks or corrosion spots
- Difficulty keeping the tyre inflated
- Vibration or wobbling when driving
If you suspect rim damage, don’t delay getting it checked and repaired.
Step 4: Listen for Unusual Noises or Feel Changes When Driving
After hitting a pothole, pay attention to how your car drives:
- Do you feel vibrations or shaking?
- Does the steering pull to one side?
- Are there any unusual thumping or knocking noises?
These can be signs of tyre damage, misalignment, or suspension problems caused by the pothole impact.
Step 5: Visit a Tyre Specialist or Mechanic
If you notice any damage or symptoms, take your car to a qualified tyre specialist or mechanic immediately. They can:
- Perform a thorough tyre inspection
- Check wheel alignment and balance
- Repair or replace damaged tyres or rims
- Inspect suspension components that might have been affected
Prompt professional inspection helps prevent bigger problems and keeps you safe on the road.
Step 6: Prevent Future Damage with Regular Checks
Regular tyre maintenance reduces the risk of pothole damage turning into a major issue. This includes:
- Keeping tyres properly inflated
- Rotating tyres every 10,000 km
- Replacing tyres when tread depth is low
- Avoiding potholes where possible by driving cautiously
Regular checks help you spot damage early and extend tyre life.
Real-Life Example: When a Small Pothole Caused a Big Problem
One of our customers hit a seemingly small pothole near Geelong. At first, they thought nothing of it. But over the next few days, the car began pulling to the left and vibrating at highway speeds.
A tyre inspection revealed a large sidewall bubble on the front left tyre, caused by the pothole impact. The tyre was unsafe and needed immediate replacement.
This is a reminder that pothole damage isn’t always obvious right away—and why quick checks matter.
What to Do If You Can’t Avoid Hitting a Pothole
Sometimes potholes come out of nowhere. If you can’t avoid them:
- Slow down as much as possible before hitting the pothole
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to maintain control
- Avoid braking or accelerating hard during impact
Reducing speed lowers the force on your tyres and suspension, helping prevent serious damage.
Keeping Your Tyres Safe on Australian Roads
Potholes are a frustrating reality on many Australian roads. But knowing how to check for tyre damage after a hit can save you from costly repairs and keep you safe behind the wheel.
If you suspect tyre or wheel damage, don’t wait—get your vehicle inspected by a professional. Safe tyres mean safer journeys.
If you need advice, tyre replacement, or vehicle removal services after damage, we’re here to help. Contact us anytime for support.
If you are in Noble Park, and looking to sell your car or get cash for trucks, below is the best way to visit us.
Eastern Cash For Cars
720 High St Rd, Glen Waverley, VIC 3150
(03) 7035 7830
www.easterncashforcars.com.au
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