Pothole Damage - the Modern Scourge

It's official - the RAC has recognised that pothole damage to vehicles is scourge on our driving lives. 

In their report "RAC Pothole Index – statistics and data for UK roads" the motoring organisation highlights their "Pothole Index" which shows that drivers are 1.7 times more likely to suffer damage from poor road surfaces than when records began (in 2006). With each repair costing around £460 to effect on average, it's clear that this is a huge problem for drvers. 

Most workshops can fit new suspension components, wheels or tyres but many are still unable to take the final step that completes the job - wheel alignment. This is so important we have a Know the Facts campaign - Four Wheel Alignment: 

• Improves EV range
• Improves safety
• Improves comfort
• Improves tyre life
• Improves fuel economy

not to mention being vital for the safe operation of ADAS. Most in-built Advanced Driver Assistance Systems need correct steering and/or rear thrust angle to work, and a modern vehicle cannot function safely if one parameter is out of kilter. Wheel alignment has never been more important and drivers should check that their chosen workshop can carry out re-alignment after suspension job no matter how small. Check it's done - even if it means going elsewhere once the work has been done. 

According to the RAC, their patrols attended 33% more pothole-related breakdowns in 2023 than 2022, and Government figures show that 60% of local councils did not resurface their roads despite the cash windfall from the cancellation of HST North. The need for wheel alignment isn't going away. Drivers must take it on themselves to ensure their car is checked regularly, particularly if they have a "pothole experience"!

Parallel Lines

April 2024