Hit a Pothole? Here's What to Check | Migos Tires Blog
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Hit a Pothole? Here's What to Check

Migos Tires LLC ยท Richmond, VA

Richmond roads take a beating every winter, and potholes are hard on tires, wheels, and suspension alike. Here's what's worth checking after a hard hit.

Look at the tire first

Check for bulges or bubbles on the sidewall (a sign of internal damage โ€” see our tire warning signs guide), and check tire pressure. A hard impact can cause a slow leak even without an obvious puncture.

Check the wheel itself

Bent rims are common after a bad pothole hit โ€” look for visible dents or dings on the rim edge. A bent wheel can cause a persistent vibration or make it hard to keep the tire sealed properly.

Pay attention to how the car handles

A pull to one side, a new vibration, or a change in how the steering feels can point to an alignment issue caused by the impact. This isn't a tire problem, but it's common after a hard pothole hit and worth getting checked.

When it's more than a tire

If you notice a rhythmic thumping, a clunk over bumps, or looser-feeling steering, that can point to suspension or steering component damage โ€” outside what a tire service covers, but important to get looked at.

If you're not sure what you're dealing with, we can check the tire and wheel on-site and let you know honestly if it's something bigger.

Need tires checked or replaced? We come to you โ€” anywhere in the Richmond area.

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