As you know, it is not always possible to avoid damage caused by potholes, which is why they result in almost 500,000 insurance claims per year! Potholes can do their worst damage to the car’s suspension system. The suspension system is built to provide a smooth ride for passengers, absorbing the jolts and bumps that are driven over. But when a car repeatedly hits the jolts, scrapes and dips of potholes, the shocks, springs and struts can get worn down. This then affects the amount of control a driver has over his or her vehicle.
Symptoms you could experience that worsen over time, include the car bouncing a lot on bumpy roads or giving the driver the feeling of the undercarriage hitting the road because of how low the car dips on a bounce. The car may also sway on turns or cause the back end to dip during acceleration from a complete stop.
Check the following for any damage to your suspension system:
- Erosion or wear on the wishbone pivots
- Distortion, cracking or wear on the rubber bushings
- Rust or damage on the mountings
- Irregular movement in the track control arms
If you find that any of these areas are damaged, you can save a bundle by replacing the parts yourself. Shop gmoutletparts.com for the best selection of GM suspension parts for unbeatable selection and prices, to ensure a smooth ride for your vehicle.
Sources: http://www.wisegeek.org/how-can-i-tell-if-my-car-has-pothole-damage.htmhttp://www.howacarworks.com/suspension/checking-suspension-joints-and-pivots
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