Safety Notes When Cars Frequently Encounter Potholes

car goes into pothole
Latest update date: February 27, 11

Pothole, also known as "potholes", "death holes", are the nightmare of any driver when participating in traffic in Vietnam. The bumpy, sunken road surface not only causes discomfort and affects the urban aesthetics but also poses a risk of serious traffic accidents, causing loss of life and property.

According to statistics from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, between 2016 and 2018, drivers spent an average of $3 billion each year repairing damage caused by potholes. This equates to about $300 per month per driver.

In Vietnam, potholes are a growing problem due to harsh weather and poor road infrastructure. From rural roads to national highways, they have become a common problem, making pothole-related car repairs a regular occurrence for many drivers. There is a popular saying that goes, “If you come to Vietnam and don’t encounter potholes, you haven’t been there at all.”

car goes into pothole
Cars often encounter potholes - things to know

Causes of potholes

5 main causes of potholes on the road:

  • Construction quality: Many road projects do not ensure quality, use poor materials, and construction techniques do not meet standards.
  • Overloaded load: Overloaded vehicles often travel on the road, causing rapid damage to the road surface.
  • Extreme weather: Heavy rain, hot sun, sudden temperature changes reduce the life of the road surface.
  • Ineffective maintenance management: Road maintenance and repair are not carried out regularly and properly.
  • Rapid traffic growth: The rapid increase in vehicle traffic has put a lot of pressure on the road system.

Research by Dr. Robert Smith from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) shows that 60% of potholes form due to a combination of three main factors: poor construction, extreme weather, and excessive vehicle loads.

Car parts that are easily damaged when encountering potholes

To protect your car from potholed roads, it's important to know the parts that are susceptible to damage.

1. Tire

Tires are the only part of your vehicle that comes into direct contact with the road. When your vehicle hits a pothole, your tires can:

  • Side bulge
  • Tire separation
  • Flat tire

If the tire cannot absorb the entire impact force, other parts such as the rim will also be under great pressure and may become deformed or cracked.

- Notes When Cars Frequently Encounter Potholes
Tires are the part that is most affected when the car hits a pothole.

2. Wheel cluster area

In addition to tires, rims and hubs are also susceptible to damage. Some common signs include:

  • Warped or warped rim
  • Hub shaft loose

These problems will affect the vehicle's dynamics and safety.

3. Suspension system

The suspension system helps to absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride. After encountering a pothole, the system may experience problems such as:

  • Broken joint
  • Shock absorber damaged
  • Strut damage

Signs that the suspension needs to be checked include the steering wheel being off-center and the feeling of the vehicle pulling in one direction.

According to a report by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE International), 70% of serious suspension failures are caused by direct impact from potholes.

4. Exhaust system – exhaust pipe

The exhaust pipe is located along the underbody of the vehicle, making it vulnerable to damage from potholes. Underbody scraping can cause:

  • Chipped or torn exhaust pipe
  • Sound coming from a hole in the exhaust system

If not checked promptly, exhaust gas can escape, polluting the environment and affecting the health of people in the car.

- Notes When Cars Frequently Encounter Potholes
Exhaust system – exhaust pipes are often affected by potholes

5. Bodywork

Cars with low bodies are more vulnerable to deep potholes. Parts such as bumpers are also easily damaged, reducing the aesthetics of the car. Therefore, drivers need to adjust the steering wheel skillfully to limit collisions.

How to prevent damage when your car goes over a pothole

To protect your car from damage caused by potholes, keep in mind the following measures:

  • Check your tires regularly: Make sure they are properly inflated and show no signs of damage.
  • Slow down when approaching potholes: This helps reduce the force on vehicle components.
  • Check the suspension regularly: Especially after going through bad roads.
  • Use warning devices: If you frequently travel through areas with many potholes, use warning devices to identify them promptly.
  • Regular maintenance: Take your vehicle to a reputable repair shop to have vulnerable parts checked and serviced.

Hopefully, with the above information, you will have more knowledge in taking care of your beloved car. If you need to find quality car maintenance or repair services, contact reputable units for the best support!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do potholes affect car performance?

Potholes can cause a lot of damage to your vehicle, including damage to tires, wheels, and suspension system. When a vehicle hits a pothole, the force exerted on the wheel can cause the tire to flatten or crack, while the rim can become deformed or broken.

2. How to recognize tire damage due to potholes?

Signs of tire damage include: sidewall bulges, tire separation, and flat tires. If tires are not checked regularly, these problems can lead to serious accidents. Read the article now: When to change car tires? 8 important warning signs you should not ignore.

3. Is there any way to minimize damage when driving over potholes?

To minimize damage, drivers should slow down when approaching a pothole and avoid braking just before hitting it. Keeping the steering wheel straight and controlling the vehicle’s direction of travel is also important to limit the force on the components.

4. How often should vehicle parts be checked?

It is recommended to periodically check components such as tires, suspension, and wheels at least once a month or after every long trip, especially when traveling through areas with many potholes.

5. What role does the suspension play in protecting a vehicle from potholes?

The suspension system helps absorb the impact of a pothole, keeping the car stable and reducing bounce. If this system fails, other components such as tires and wheels will be put under greater stress, leading to a higher risk of damage.

6. Is there any way to protect the car body from damage caused by potholes?

To protect the bodywork, drivers should avoid driving low-riding vehicles over rough roads. Additionally, regular inspections and routine maintenance will help detect potential problems before they become serious.

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