Hit a Pothole? Here’s What to Check Immediately

Potholes are a frustrating reality of UK roads, and even the most careful drivers can fall victim to one. At Sandicliffe, we know how common this type of damage is, and how important it is to understand the warning signs early to avoid larger repair bills or safety issues later on.

Potholes can cause more than just a jolt. Some types of damage are obvious straight away, while others develop slowly over the days that follow. Here’s a simple, genuine guide to what you should check immediately after hitting a pothole.

1. Start With the Tyres

Your tyres absorb the initial impact, making them the most vulnerable component. After hitting a pothole, take a moment to inspect them closely.

Look for bulges or bubbles on the sidewall, cuts or tears in the rubber, sudden pressure loss or vibrations that weren’t there before. Even if everything looks normal, keep an eye on the tyre over the next few days because slow punctures are very common after impacts like these.

2. Inspect the Wheels for Bends or Cracks

Alloy wheels are lighter and more efficient, but they are also more susceptible to damage. A bent or cracked wheel might not be immediately obvious, so pay attention to how the car feels at different speeds.

Common signs include wobbling, vibrations or hairline cracks around the rim. Even minor wheel distortion can cause long‑term issues such as uneven tyre wear or reduced control.

3. Pay Attention to Your Steering

If the steering suddenly feels different, that is usually a strong indicator that something has shifted out of place. You might notice the car pulling to one side, the steering feeling heavier or lighter than usual or a delay between turning the wheel and the car responding.

Changes like this often point to misalignment or impact damage to steering or suspension components.

4. Listen for New Noises From the Suspension

The suspension is designed to absorb bumps, but deep potholes can push it beyond its limits. After an impact, listen for clunks or knocking sounds, particularly when driving over uneven roads. A rougher ride or one side of the car sitting lower than the other can also signal damage.

Even minor suspension issues can worsen over time, so it is worth paying attention to anything that feels unusual.

5. Check the Underside if the Impact Was Hard

If the pothole was particularly deep, the underside of your car may have made contact with the road. This can affect the exhaust, protective undertrays, brake lines or sensors. If you notice new noises, rattling or warning lights after the impact, it may be related to underside damage.

6. Watch for Dashboard Warning Lights

Modern vehicles rely heavily on sensors, and a pothole can cause them to react. Tyre pressure alerts, traction control warnings and steering or chassis notifications can all appear after a hard impact. These lights often indicate that the car has detected something unusual that may need attention.

7. Document Everything for a Potential Claim

If your vehicle has been damaged, taking a few simple steps can help you with a future claim. Photograph the pothole and surrounding area, note the exact location and time, take pictures of any vehicle damage and keep any repair invoices. Many councils accept claims if the pothole was previously reported or exceptionally severe.

Summary

Potholes are an unavoidable part of driving, and even a minor impact can cause issues that are not always obvious straight away. Checking your tyres, wheels, steering, suspension and warning lights can help you spot problems early and stay safe on the road. If anything feels different, even slightly, it is always better to get it checked sooner rather than later.

For added reassurance, you can visit your local Sandicliffe, where our servicing team can carry out a full health check and make sure everything is in top condition before you get back on the road.