Pothole Problems: Detecting & Fixing Vehicle Alignment Issues After a Nasty Encounter

If you've ever driven over a pothole and thought it messed up your car's alignment, you're not alone. Potholes can be a major headache for your tires, suspension, and yes - your vehicle's alignment. But don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's what you should do if you think a pothole has thrown off your alignment, and some useful tips to keep your car in top shape.

Check for immediate damage: After hitting that pothole (and maybe letting out a groan), find a safe place to pull over and take a quick look at your tires and wheels. Keep an eye out for obvious problems like punctures, bent rims, or flat tires. If you spot any issues, get them fixed before you hit the road again.

Look for signs of misalignment: If your car starts pulling to one side, the steering wheel seems off-center, or your tires show uneven wear, these could be red flags that your alignment is off. Other symptoms include steering wheel vibrations or poor handling.

Visit Your Kunes Service Center at Kunes Auto Group of Mt. Carroll: If you think your alignment has been affected, it's time to schedule an appointment with your trusty mechanic at Kunes Auto Group of Mt. Carroll's Service Center. They'll be able to figure out what's going on and fix the alignment if needed.

Consider filing a claim: Depending on how bad the damage is and how much repairs will cost, you might want to file a claim with your insurance company or even your local municipality if the pothole was on a public road. Be sure to take photos of the damage and gather any necessary information (like the pothole's location) to support your claim.

Keep up with regular maintenance: Once your car is fixed, make it a habit to regularly check your tire pressure, tire wear, and alignment. This way, you'll be able to catch any potential issues early on and prevent further damage.

Stay alert for potholes: To avoid more alignment problems in the future, try to be more aware of potholes and other road hazards. Slow down and safely go around them if you can. But if avoiding a pothole would put you or other drivers in danger, it's better to slow down and drive through it carefully instead of swerving.

Remember, driving on a misaligned vehicle can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and poor handling. So, make sure to fix any alignment issues as soon as possible to keep your car running smoothly and to stay safe on the road.

In conclusion, potholes can be a real pain, but with a little care and attention, you can keep your car's alignment in check and avoid any costly repairs. If you ever suspect that a pothole has messed up your alignment, don't hesitate to bring your car to Kunes Auto Group of Mt. Carroll. Our expert technicians will get you back on the road safely and with a properly aligned vehicle in no time!