Potholes and suspension: how to protect your vehicle

The real impact of potholes on suspension

Every pothole sends a direct shock through suspension components: shock absorbers, springs, bushings, ball joints and control arms. A single sharp impact can bend a wheel rim or blow a tyre, but the most common damage is the gradual, imperceptible deterioration of bushings and ball joints, which progressively lose their ability to absorb vibration until steering becomes imprecise and the car becomes uncomfortable to drive.

Components most vulnerable to impacts

Shock absorbers are the first to suffer from rough roads. A worn shock absorber not only reduces comfort but also increases stopping distances and compromises cornering stability. Control arm bushings absorb vibration and allow a degree of flex; when they harden or crack, every impact is transmitted directly to the body and steering.

Tips to reduce the damage

Slow down before hitting a pothole when you can see it ahead. Keep tyre pressure at the correct value: a slightly under-inflated tyre absorbs a little more impact but suffers more at the sidewall. Avoid turning the steering wheel as you hit a pothole, since lateral forces multiply the damage to steering components.

Suspension inspection at Talleres Martin

At Talleres Martin we carry out complete suspension inspections in Pozuelo de Alarcon, examining shock absorbers, bushings, ball joints and stabiliser bars. If we detect wear or excessive play in any component, we show you its condition before quoting for the repair. A suspension in good shape improves safety, comfort and fuel economy.