Spring brings pothole season to UK roads. Learn how to spot them, minimise damage, and know when your tyres need replacing after a pothole strike.
After a harsh winter, UK roads are riddled with potholes. The freeze-thaw cycle breaks up road surfaces, creating hazards that can cause serious damage to your tyres, wheels, and suspension. Here's how to stay safe during pothole season.
Signs of Pothole Damage
After hitting a pothole, look out for these warning signs:
- Bulges or blisters on the tyre sidewall
- Steering wheel vibration or pulling to one side
- Visible cuts or cracks in the tyre rubber
- Loss of tyre pressure (slow puncture)
- Unusual noise when driving
- Scuffed or bent alloy wheels
How to Minimise Pothole Damage
- Keep your tyres properly inflated — underinflated tyres are more vulnerable
- Reduce speed on roads with poor surfaces
- Leave plenty of distance to the car ahead so you can see hazards
- If you can't avoid a pothole, brake before it — not while driving through it
- Grip the steering wheel firmly to maintain control
- After a strike, check your tyres as soon as it's safe to do so
When to Get Your Tyres Checked
Sidewall bulges are particularly dangerous — they indicate internal structural damage and the tyre could fail at any time. Never drive on a tyre with a sidewall bulge. If you've hit a pothole and notice any of the symptoms above, pop into New Tyre Empire for a free inspection. We'll give you honest advice on whether a repair or replacement is needed.
