Anyone who commutes daily on Tacoma streets can attest to the numerous potholes. This is especially problematic during fall and winter because most potholes are difficult to detect due to leaves and puddling water obscuring them. Learning more about these road imperfections will help you prevent pothole damage.

Why Potholes Form?



Water that puddles on the road during autumn seeps into the cracks in the pavement before freezing and subsequently thawing. As this process repeats itself, it causes the road to contract and bulge. When vehicles drive over the bulge, the weight causes it to crack apart, and the tires dig out the cracked pieces.

How Do Potholes Cause Damage?

Driving through a pothole causes an immediate shift in tire air pressure. In severe cases, this can cause a blowout. Potholes may also cause a bend or crack where the rim meets the tire. Finally, driving over a pothole may lead to a misaligned suspension or uneven wear. If the car starts veering in one direction, then you have an alignment problem. Bring your car to an auto repair ASAP.

How to Avoid a Pothole

If you see a pothole ahead, slow your vehicle to minimize the impact or drive around it if possible. Unfortunately, not all potholes are clearly visible. Pooling water is a strong indicator of a pothole. Also, slow to a crawl when driving through leaf-strewn roads. You can never be certain what the fallen leaves are concealing.

You should also leave ample space between you and the vehicle ahead. Tailgating minimizes reaction time to a pothole if you spot it at all. 

We Repair Cars from Pothole Damage

Our auto service routinely inspects potential vehicle damage from potholes. View our gallery of our technicians in action. Jones Automotive Clinic advises motorists to exercise caution to avoid pothole damage. 

Fall and Winter Auto Maintenance

Serving Customers in Tacoma, Sumner, Lake Tapps, Auburn, Federal Way, Des Moines, Gig Harbor, University Place, Fircrest and Ruston