Spring Potholes: Why They’re Worse Than You Think
Every year it happens. The snow melts, the sun comes out… and suddenly the roads look like they survived a small war.
Welcome to pothole season in Missouri.
Spring potholes aren’t just annoying — they can seriously mess with your vehicle. When water seeps into cracks in the pavement during winter, it freezes and expands. That freeze-thaw cycle breaks the road apart, and by spring, you’re dodging craters on your way to work.
The problem? Even one hard hit can cause damage you don’t see right away.
What Potholes Can Actually Damage
- Wheel alignment – If your steering wheel feels off-center or your car pulls to one side, that pothole may be to blame
- Suspension components – Struts, shocks, and ball joints take the hit first
- Tires and rims – Sidewall bubbles, bent rims, or slow leaks can show up days later.
Sometimes you won’t notice anything immediately. Then a week later your tires are wearing unevenly or your ride feels rougher than normal. That’s why spring is one of the most important times to have your vehicle checked.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
- Slow down on rough roads.
- Avoid puddles when possible — they often hide deep holes.
- If you hit one hard, don’t ignore new noises or vibrations.
At Alternative Automotive, we see a big spike in alignment and suspension repairs every spring. The good news? Catching it early is usually simple and much less expensive than letting it go.
If your car feels “a little off” after a rough winter, it probably is. Missouri roads may be unpredictable — your vehicle shouldn’t be. See us at Alternative Automotive today!
