Pothole Tire Damage: Inspection and Safety Guide

Potholes are structural road failures that cause high-velocity compression of the tire against the wheel rim. This can lead to immediate failure or "hidden" damage that compromises the tire's internal integrity.

How to quickly spot Signs of Pothole Damage

• Visual: Bulges (bubbles) on the sidewall, cuts, or a bent rim.
• Feeling: Steering wheel vibration or the vehicle "pulling" to one side.
• Sound: Repetitive thumping or humming that changes with vehicle speed.
• Systemic: A "Low Tire Pressure" (TPMS) light appearing shortly after impact.

1. What are the types of Pothole Damage to tires?

The four main types of pothole damage to tires are sidewall bulge, pinch shock, rim damage, and misalignment.

• Sidewall Bulge: A "bubble" or protrusion on the side. This is a high risk, and the impacted tire(s) should be replaced immediately as the internal structure is torn.
• Pinch Shock: A cut where the tire was pressed against the rim. This is a high risk, and the impacted tire(s) should be replaced immediately as pinch shock carries a high risk of blowout.
• Rim Damage: Bent or cracked metal/alloy wheel edge. This is a medium risk and the rim can be repaired or replaced. It does carry a risk of slow air leaks from the tire or excess vibration, though.
• Misalignment: The steering wheel is off-center while driving straight. This is a low to medium risk. Scheduling an alignment with a professional can fix the issue quickly. This helps prevent uneven wear from spreading.

2. 5-Step Post-Impact Inspection Checklist

Step 1: External Visual Audit

Search the sidewall and tread. Look for "impact breaks,” like internal tears in the cord fabric that manifest as bubbles. These cannot be repaired and represent a high risk of a sudden blowout.

Step 2: Monitor Steering Response

If the car no longer tracks straight or the steering wheel feels "crooked," the impact likely bent a tie rod or control arm.

• Result: Accelerated, uneven tread wear that can ruin a new tire in less than 1,000 miles.

Step 3: Listen for "Speed-Sensitive" Noises

• Thumping: Indicates a "flat spot" or internal belt separation.
• Grinding/Humming: Could indicate damage to the wheel bearing caused by the shock of the pothole.

Step 4: Verify PSI (Air Pressure)

Check your tire pressure immediately and again 24 hours later. Potholes often cause bead damage (where the tire seals to the rim), resulting in a slow leak that is not visible to the eye.

Step 5: Document for Claims

Take photos of the pothole, the damage to the tire/rim, and the street location. Many municipalities have programs to reimburse drivers for repairs if the pothole was previously reported but not fixed.

3. When to Seek Professional Help for Pothole Damage

DIY inspections have limits. You should visit a service center lif:

1. The steering wheel vibrates at highway speeds (indicating a lost wheel weight or bent rim).
2. You see any protrusion (bubble) on the sidewall.
3. The TPMS light remains on despite adding air.

Safety Warning: A sidewall bubble is a "ticking time bomb." The internal structural plies are snapped, and only a thin layer of rubber is holding the air pressure. Do not drive at highway speeds with this condition.

Next Steps

Identifying pothole damage early can save the rest of your suspension system from premature wear. While some damage is cosmetic, anything affecting the sidewall or alignment requires professional intervention.