How Connecticut Potholes Wreck Your Car (and What to Fix First)

Every spring, Connecticut drivers face the same nightmare: potholes everywhere. The freeze-thaw cycles that define New England winters crack asphalt apart, and by March, roads like Silver Lane, I-84, and Route 2 look like obstacle courses.

What Happens When You Hit a Pothole

When your tire drops into a pothole at speed, the sudden impact sends a shockwave through your entire suspension system.Here's what can get damaged — listed from most common to least:

1. Wheel alignment knocked out of spec — Even a single hard hit can shift your camber, toe, and caster angles. You might not notice immediately, but your tires will start wearing unevenly within weeks.
2. Tire damage — Sidewall bulges (also called "road bubbles") happen when the internal structure of the tire breaks. A bulging sidewall means that tire needs to be replaced — it can blow out without warning.
3. Bent wheel / rim — Alloy wheels are especially vulnerable. A bent rim causes vibration, slow air leaks, and can prevent a proper tire seal.
4. Damaged suspension components — Struts, shocks, control arms, tie rod ends, and ball joints all absorb impact. Repeated pothole hits accelerate wear on these parts.
5. Steering system damage — In severe cases, a pothole can damage your steering rack or power steering components.

What to Do After Hitting a Bad Pothole

If you hit a pothole hard enough that you heard a loud bang or felt the steering pull afterward, here's what to check:

1. Pull over safely and check your tires visually. Look for sidewall bulges, cuts, or low pressure.
2. Drive slowly and pay attention to vibration, pulling, or unusual noises.
3. Get an alignment check within the next day or two — don't wait until your tires are already damaged.

The Connecticut Pothole Tax

According to AAA, American drivers spend an average of $600 per year on pothole - related repairs . In Connecticut, with our notoriously rough spring roads, that number is likely higher. The smartest thing you can do is get your alignment checked as soon as winter ends — think of it as spring cleaning for your car.

Free Pothole Damage Check at Strong's

Bring your car to Strong's Alignment Services and we'll do a visual inspection of your tires, wheels, and suspension — no charge.If you need an alignment, we use Hunter HawkEye Elite equipment for dealer - level accuracy at an honest price.

Call: (860) 569 - 1440 | 195 Silver Lane, East Hartford, CT