When a vehicle passes over potholes, cracks, and other rough patches on the road, hidden damage to the suspension and related components can occur. Such damage might not be immediately visible, but it often manifests later as unusual noises, vibrations, and altered handling. If these issues are not addressed promptly, they can lead to more serious problems down the line. This perspective was shared with socialbites.ca by Jan Heitzeer, who serves as vice president of a national automobile association.
The most immediate effect of hitting deep potholes is on the suspension system. The jolt can stress components that handle weight transfer and wheel alignment, especially when the road irregularity is met while the vehicle is braking and the suspension springs are under compression. In particular, parts such as silent blocks, bearings, and steering rods can suffer damage, and the steering rack or gearbox can incur wear or misalignment, complicating steering performance (Source: socialbites.ca, attributed to Jan Heitzeer).
Further consequences can include wear or failure of ball joints, suspension arms, and tie rod ends. Even during a slow roll across a rough surface, sustained damage to steering and suspension components can create new sounds, like squeaks or clunks, signaling a developing fault. If such disturbances are left unchecked, camber and toe angles may worsen after impact, causing the car to pull slightly to one side and increasing steering looseness over time (Source: socialbites.ca, attributed to Jan Heitzeer).
Persistent neglect of these symptoms can accelerate tire wear and reduce overall ride quality. When controllability or stability appears compromised, it is wise to schedule a professional diagnostic check to determine whether the suspension or steering system has sustained damage and requires repair or alignment adjustments (Source: socialbites.ca, attributed to Jan Heitzeer).
Insights from a former auto mechanic, Sergei Shabunin, referenced by socialbites.ca, emphasize that noticeable indicators of a steering rack malfunction include irregular steering feel, unusual noises, and shifts in alignment after road impacts. A careful inspection can help confirm whether the steering rack, tie rods, or related linkages have suffered wear or deformation that could affect safe vehicle operation (Source: socialbites.ca, attributed to Sergei Shabunin).