Auto Repair: What Potholes Do to Your Suspension (And How to Spot It)

By: Dragon Auto AMG

Let’s be honest—if you drive in Montreal, you know potholes aren’t just a seasonal inconvenience—they’re practically landmarks. Winter after winter, road salt, snow plows, and freeze-thaw cycles carve up our streets like a bad movie plot. And guess who takes the hit? Your car’s suspension system.

In this friendly, fact-packed guide, we’ll walk you through how those crater-sized road hazards wreak havoc on your vehicle, what symptoms to watch for, and how timely auto repair can save you money, headaches, and a bumpy ride.

The Real Damage Potholes Cause

Your Suspension’s Silent Struggle

Your suspension system works hard to absorb shock, keep your tires on the road, and ensure your ride feels smooth—not like a rollercoaster. But potholes hit fast and hard, disrupting this delicate balance.

Key components affected include:

• Shocks and struts: These take the brunt of the impact and can wear out prematurely.

• Control arms and ball joints: Repeated jolts can lead to bends or fractures.

• Bushings: These rubber pieces can crack or tear, making your ride feel loose or unstable.

Why It’s Worse Than It Seems

Pothole damage doesn’t always show up right away. It builds over time, subtly changing how your car handles:

• Slight alignment issues that cause uneven tire wear

• Reduced responsiveness while steering

• Suspension parts weakening silently until they finally fail

That’s why auto repair pros recommend periodic checks—especially after pothole season.

It’s Not Just Suspension

While your suspension takes most of the abuse, potholes can also:

• Crack your rims

• Cause tire bulges or blowouts

• Knock sensors loose (ABS, tire pressure)

• Damage your exhaust or undercarriage

The bottom line? One pothole can impact multiple systems, which is why a full inspection is often necessary.

Spot the Signs Early (Before It Gets Expensive)

You Feel Every Bump Now

One clear sign something’s off? Your once-smooth ride feels like a trampoline.

• You bounce excessively after going over bumps

• The front end “dives” when braking

• The car leans or sways more on turns

These are all signs your shocks or struts might be worn or damaged.

Pulling or Drifting While Driving

If your car starts veering left or right—without you steering that way—you likely have an alignment issue.

• Constant correcting of the wheel

• Uneven tire wear

• The car doesn’t track straight on the highway

This may start as a minor nuisance but can lead to costly tire replacements and unsafe handling.

Unusual Noises When You Hit a Bump

Clunking, squeaking, or rattling over bumps? That’s not “just how old cars sound.”

• Loose suspension parts knock when they’re no longer snug

• Worn bushings can squeak under pressure

• Broken springs or ball joints often make metallic clunks

If you hear anything new or weird, it’s time for a visit to your local auto repair shop.

What a Professional Inspection Looks Like

Visual Suspension Check

An experienced mechanic knows where to look:

• Signs of oil leakage from shocks/struts

• Cracked or torn bushings

• Uneven tire wear patterns

• Bent or rusted components

They’ll often hoist the car to check angles and clearance from below.

Test Drive Diagnosis

A skilled technician won’t just look—they’ll feel.

• Taking the car over controlled bumps

• Listening for any abnormal noises

• Assessing how the car responds during braking and turning

This real-world testing is key to confirming any suspected suspension problems.

Alignment and Steering Test

Potholes often knock your wheels out of line. Auto repair shops use specialized equipment to measure:

• Caster, camber, and toe alignment

• Steering wheel centering

• Tire angle consistency

Proper alignment ensures your tires wear evenly and your car stays stable at all speeds.

Prevention and Smart Repairs

Drive Smarter in Pothole Season

You can’t avoid every pothole—but you can reduce damage by:

• Slowing down when you see one coming

• Avoiding puddles (they often hide craters)

• Keeping your tires properly inflated

Driving defensively helps your suspension stay healthier longer.

Stay on Top of Maintenance

Regular checkups go a long way:

• Get your alignment checked twice a year

• Have your suspension inspected during oil changes

• Replace tires before they’re bald—they cushion impacts better when healthy

It’s cheaper to maintain than to repair.

Choose the Right Auto Repair Shop

Not all shops are created equal. Look for:

• Technicians experienced in suspension and steering systems

• Transparent pricing and diagnostics

• A good reputation in your community

If you’re in Montreal, Dragon Auto AMG has your back. From minor knocks to full rebuilds, we handle auto repair with care, speed, and clarity.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Potholes Win

Potholes might be part of Montreal life, but they don’t have to wreck your ride. By knowing the signs, driving smart, and choosing expert auto repair, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly—and avoid getting rattled by surprise bills or breakdowns.

Your suspension might be silent, but it’s vital. So give it the attention it deserves.

When in doubt, drop by Dragon Auto AMG. We’ll help your vehicle handle the city like a champ—no matter how many potholes lie ahead.