Can Hitting a Pothole Mess Up My Car’s Alignment?
What to Watch for After Hitting a Pothole
If youโve ever hit a pothole and immediately felt like something was wrong, youโre not alone. Itโs something we hear oftenโespecially with the rough road conditions we have here after winter.
The short answer is yes. That kind of impact on your car can absolutely affect your alignment, even if it didnโt seem that bad right away.
What Causes Alignment Issues?
When your car hits a pothole, it can create a sudden jolt to your suspension and steering components. That impact can knock your wheels slightly out of alignment.
You might notice your car pulling to one side, your steering wheel sitting off-center, or your vehicle just not feeling as steady as it used to. Even a small change can make a difference in how your car steers.
Why It Matters
Alignment issues may not seem urgent at first, but they can lead to uneven tire wear and make your car harder to control. Especially at higher speeds or on longer drives.
We asked Zach, owner of Mad Hatter Auto Repair, about alignment issues and how they can affect your driving. He shared, โDriving with improper alignment can cause uneven tire wear and reduce your control on the road. Itโs one of those things thatโs easy to overlook until it becomes a bigger issue.โ
Potholes are one of the common reasons we see alignment problems, especially this time of year. If youโre planning to do a lot of drivingโwhether itโs a road trip or your daily commuteโitโs worth having your alignment checked. It can make a big difference in how your car handles and feels on the road.
What to do Next
If your car isnโt driving the way it used toโespecially after hitting a potholeโitโs worth having it looked at. Alignment issues are often quick to check and can make a noticeable difference in how your vehicle feels on the road.
If youโd like our team to take a look, weโre always happy to help. To schedule an appointment in Omaha, call (402) 330-2286 and in Council Bluffs call (712) 322-7500. Or you can easily book an appointment online using our Scheduling Tool.