Why You Should Avoid Potholes near Fort Sam Houston

If you've ever felt that teeth-rattling bump followed by the sinking dread of "Did that do something to my car?" then you already understand why you should avoid potholes. Those sneaky craters that litter San Antonio roads don’t just make your ride uncomfortable – they can seriously damage your vehicle. At Red McCombs Hyundai near Fort Sam Houston, we want you to know exactly what’s at risk and what you can do to steer clear of those pavement bullies.

What Causes Potholes?

Let’s start with what you’re up against. Potholes happen when water sneaks into cracks in the pavement. Over time, traffic pressure and weather cause the surface to break apart, forming nasty holes in the road. One day it’s a small bump – the next, it’s a tire-swallowing menace.

Whether it’s a rainy winter or a scorching summer, Texas roads are no strangers to pothole problems.

Common Types of Pothole Damage

A quick bump might seem harmless, but the impact can cause all sorts of hidden issues. Pothole damage doesn’t always show up right away, which is why it’s important to stay alert.

Here’s what potholes can do to your vehicle:

• Wheel Damage and Bent Rims
• Tire Punctures and Uneven Tire Wear
• Suspension Damage, Including Broken Shocks or Struts
• Steering Wheel Misalignment or Vibration
• Cracks in the Undercarriage or Body Panels
• Brake Problems Due to Suspension Damage or Alignment Issues
• Issues With Vehicle Handling and Control

Even a single pothole can throw off your wheel alignment or cause long-term damage to your suspension system. That’s not a risk you want to take.

How to Spot Signs of Pothole Damage

You don’t have to be a mechanic to notice something’s wrong after hitting a pothole. Pay attention to how your vehicle behaves. Some problems show up right away – others take a few days to become obvious.

Watch Out for These Warning Signs:

• The Vehicle Pulls to One Side
• The Steering Wheel Feels Off-Center
• There’s a Vibration or Wobble When Driving
• The Ride Feels Rougher Than Usual
• You Hear a Clunk or Rattle After Impact
• There’s Uneven Tire Wear on One Side
• Your Fuel Economy Drops Unexpectedly

If you notice any of these, it’s time to bring your vehicle to Red McCombs Hyundai for a tire service or inspection. We’ll check your wheels, tires, and suspension for damage.

Why Potholes are More Than Just Annoying

Potholes are more than a pain. They’re a real danger to drivers, passengers, and your wallet. They can lead to accidents, vehicle damage, and unexpected repair costs – not to mention the stress of being stranded on the side of the road with a blown tire.

Reasons to Steer Clear of Potholes:

• Avoid Expensive Repairs to Rims, Shocks, and Brakes
• Protect Your Tires from Blowouts and Uneven Wear
• Keep Your Wheel Alignment in Check
• Reduce the Risk of Losing Control on the Road
• Prevent Long-Term Suspension Damage
• Keep Your Ride Comfortable and Safe

That small bump you ignored could lead to a bigger repair bill later. It’s just not worth the risk.

Smart Ways to Avoid Pothole Damage

While you can’t control where the city puts the potholes, you can reduce the chance of hitting them.

Tips to steer clear of potholes while driving around Fort Sam Houston:

• Leave Extra Following Distance So You Can See the Road Ahead
• Avoid Driving Through Standing Water Where Potholes May Be Hiding
• Slow Down When Driving on Older or Poorly Maintained Roads
• Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated to Absorb Some of the Impact
• Use GPS Apps That Warn About Road Hazards or Poor Conditions
• Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions So You Can React Quickly

Taking a few precautions can help you dodge the worst pavement surprises and stay safe behind the wheel.

What to Do If You Hit a Nasty Pothole

Even the most careful drivers hit a pothole every now and then. If that happens, don’t panic – but don’t ignore it either. Check your vehicle for obvious signs of damage, and monitor how it feels as you drive.

If something seems off, head to Red McCombs Hyundai for an inspection. We’ll check for undercarriage damage, bent wheels, and suspension issues. If you need tire repair or replacement, we’ve got your back. Our team will get you fixed up and back on the road fast – and financing is available if your repair costs more than expected.

Keep Your Vehicle Road-Ready with Red McCombs Hyundai

Whether you’re navigating rush hour traffic or heading out for a weekend cruise, potholes are always lurking. Don’t let them catch you off guard. Our team at Red McCombs Hyundai is here to help with wheel alignment, tire service, suspension repairs, and more.

You can easily schedule your service appointment online or stop by if you’re in the Fort Sam Houston area. Our certified technicians will make sure your vehicle is safe, smooth, and ready to handle whatever the road throws at you – except, of course, those dreaded potholes.

Potholes don’t care how new your vehicle is. They’ll go after your wheels, shocks, and undercarriage without a second thought. Stay aware, drive smart, and keep your vehicle clear of potholes whenever possible. And if you do hit one? You know who to call.

Red McCombs Hyundai – your trusted tire and suspension experts in San Antonio.

Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.