Pothole Season is Here! How to Protect Your Suspension and Transmission

As the last wisps of winter's chill begin to dissipate and the days begin to last a little longer, a new damaging menace starts to emerge on our roads: potholes. These pesky, tire-punishing, suspension-shaking craters that seem to appear out of nowhere now threaten to ruin your daily commute and your car's delicate undercarriage with one loud bang at a time. March is officially Pothole Season, and as much as we would like to just avoid them all together, it's time to take proactive measures in order to protect your vehicle's suspension and transmission from the damage these road hazards can cause.

The Pothole Problem: By the Numbers

Before we dive into the damage that potholes can cause and the how-to's of protecting your vehicle from them, let's take a look at just how pervasive this problem is:

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), potholes cause an estimated $3 billion in damages to vehicles each year. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that 20% of all highway maintenance costs are dedicated to pothole repair, and a study by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) found that potholes can reduce a vehicle's lifespan by up to 20%. Experts agree - potholes are a problem! 

Beyond financial losses and the data pointed out above, potholes can also contribute to safety hazards, causing thousands of accidents annually. Drivers swerving to avoid them can increase the risk of collisions, while sudden impacts can lead to tire blowouts, suspension damage, and misaligned wheels while leaving you stranded on the road. In urban areas, poorly maintained roads also slow traffic, increasing commute times and fuel consumption. These statistics are staggering, and they underscore the importance of taking preventative measures to safeguard your vehicle from the ravages of pothole season.

How Potholes Can Damage Your Vehicle

So, what exactly happens to your vehicle when it encounters a pothole? Here are some potential consequences:

• Suspension Damage: Potholes can cause your vehicle's suspension to take a beating, leading to worn-out shock absorbers, struts, and springs. This can result in a rough ride, uneven tire wear, and even affect your vehicle's handling and braking performance.
• Transmission Troubles: The sudden jolt of hitting a pothole can put undue stress on your transmission, leading to premature wear on gears, bearings, and other components. This can cause slipping, hesitation, or even complete transmission failure, which is not just inconvenient but can be very dangerous.
• Tire Wear and Damage: Potholes can cause tires to wear unevenly, leading to reduced traction, decreased fuel efficiency, and increased risk of a blowout. In extreme cases, potholes can even cause tire sidewall damage or a complete tire failure leaving you stranded on the road.
• Alignment Issues: Hitting a pothole can knock your vehicle's wheels out of alignment, leading to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised handling.

Protecting Your Vehicle from Pothole Damage

Now that we've explored the data surrounding potholes and the potential consequences and damage that they can cause, let's discuss some practical tips for protecting your vehicle this season:

Regular Maintenance

Keeping up with regular preventative maintenance is key to identifying and addressing potential issues before they become major problems. Make sure to have your trusted maintenance professional:

• Check your vehicle's suspension, transmission, and tires regularly for signs of wear or potential damage.
• Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear and your tires lifespan.
• Keep your vehicle's alignment in check to prevent and avoid uneven tire wear and compromised handling.

Slow Down and Be Aware

Having an offensive mindset when driving, while being mindful of your surroundings, is essential to keep your vehicle operating effectively this season. Remember to always:

• Slow down when approaching a pothole if visible or an area prone to having potholes to reduce the harsh and sudden impact on your total vehicle.
• Avoid sudden movements or hard braking, which can exacerbate pothole damage and the possibility of getting into an accident with another vehicle.
• Keep your eyes on the road and be on the lookout for potential potholes in order to steer around them when possible.

Use the Right Tires

Did you know that using the right tires can make a big difference in protecting your vehicle from pothole damage? Remember to:

• Consider investing proactively in tires with a higher sidewall profile to provide extra cushioning against potholes.
• Look for tires with a pothole-resistant design, such as those with reinforced sidewalls or specialized tread patterns. Although they may not be the cheapest tires on the market, they will help save you money and time later on. 

Suspension Upgrades

If you live in an area that is subject to having potholes or poor road maintenance, consider upgrading your vehicle's suspension to better withstand the impact that might be felt if you hit a pothole:

• Install shock absorbers designed to absorb the shock of potholes while extending the life of your transmission and tires.
• Consider upgrading to stiffer springs or struts to improve your vehicle's handling and stability.

Transmission Protection

When trying to protect your transmission from potential damage caused by potholes, remember to:

• Use a transmission fluid that's designed to withstand high temperatures and stress.
• Consider installing a transmission cooler to reduce heat buildup and prevent damage to your transmission.

Extra Steps to Avoid Pothole Damage

While maintenance and upgrades can help protect your vehicle from potential pothole damage, your driving habits also play a big role in keeping your car performing efficiently. Here are a few extra steps you can take:

• Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly: Underinflated or overinflated tires are more susceptible to pothole damage and blowouts. Keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended PSI.
• Report Potholes: Many cities and counties have pothole reporting systems where residents can notify local authorities about road damage. Reporting potholes can help prevent future accidents and vehicle damage.
• Follow the Flow of Traffic: If other vehicles are swerving or slowing down ahead, there’s a good chance a pothole is in the road. Anticipate rough patches and prepare accordingly.

Conclusion

Potholes are an unavoidable nuisance that tend to show up every Spring, but with the right precautions, you can minimize their impact on your vehicle. Staying proactive with regular maintenance, checking your tires and suspension, and addressing any damage immediately can save you from costly repairs and headaches down the road.

If you've hit one too many potholes and suspect your car may have already suffered damage, don’t wait until it gets worse. Contact your local AAMCO shop today for a free vehicle inspection. Our experts can assess your alignment, suspension, and overall performance to ensure your car stays road-ready—no matter how rough the ride. From wheel alignments to suspension repairs, we’ve got you covered.

Protect your vehicle and your wallet by catching small issues before they turn into major repairs. Call or visit us today and drive with confidence!