What to Check After Hitting a Pothole Hard
Melbourne potholes claim tyres, rims and suspension. A Cranbourne West specialist explains what to check after a big hit.
Right after the hit
Pull over when safe and look at the tyre: a bulge in the sidewall means internal damage — that tyre can fail at speed and needs replacing, not watching. Check the rim edge for dents or cracks, and whether the tyre is losing pressure.
A slow leak that starts after a pothole is often a bent rim not sealing, not a puncture.
In the days after
Watch for: the steering wheel now sitting off-centre, the car pulling, a new vibration at speed, or clunks over bumps — these mean the alignment was knocked out or a suspension component (control arm, tie rod, shock) was damaged. Left alone they chew tyres and worsen.
A post-pothole check is quick: we inspect the tyre, rim, suspension and alignment, and you know exactly where you stand — useful for a council claim too.
We’ll take care of it
Prefer to leave it to a specialist? We look after all of this as part of a service or a quick check — with honest advice on what your car actually needs, not what sells.
Book online in 60 seconds or call a Cranbourne West specialist on 03 8782 0711.
What to Check After Hitting a Pothole Hard — FAQ
The tyre for sidewall bulges (replace, don’t watch), the rim for dents/cracks, and pressure loss.
The hit knocked the alignment out (or bent a component) — get it aligned and inspected before it wears the tyres.
Yes — the internal cords are broken and the tyre can fail at speed. Replace it.
Councils/VicRoads accept claims in some cases — our inspection report documents the damage.
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Want it done properly?
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