We have been experiencing relentless rain, and many motorists are struggling to navigate the multitude of potholes that have appeared on the roads.
Driving over potholes can cause damage to vehicles of all shapes and sizes. And in 80% of the cases, when you hit a pothole, it is your rim — one of the most safety critical items on your car — that gets damaged, and not the tyre.
Les Mc Master, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), said rim damage can often lead to other problems such as vehicle alignment and suspension problems.
Craig Courtney-Leaver, CEO of alloy rim repair specialists, Wheel Collision, agreed and said motorists need to know what to look out for.
‘If the tyre has deflated, this is an obvious sign the rim is damaged.
If everything looks fine on the surface, there are, however, other tell-tale signs to check.
Changes in the balancing and alignment are important to check.
If one feels a vibration in the steering wheel, the chances are, one of the front rims are damaged, and if one feels the vibration on the seat, then it’s is usually a rear rim,’ said Courtney-Leaver.
He adds that it is only in very severe cases that the suspension would be damaged.
Of course, if you’re at all unsure, heading to a trusted dealer or repairer is the best option.
Tips on how to avoid roadside pitfalls:
Be extra cautious when there is water on the road as a pothole may be lurking beneath.
If at all possible, and if not endangering other motorists, rather drive around the puddle.
If you do drive over a hole, do not slam on brakes as this could compound the damage to your vehicle or cause an accident.
Hold the steering wheel firmly when driving over a pothole to avoid losing control.
When driving at night, ensure your headlights are clean as dips and potholes are harder to identify in the dark
Do not swerve if you hit a hole as this could endanger other motorists.
