Spring has arrived in northern Colorado, and for vehicle owners, that means pothole season is upon us once again. As temperatures rise and snow melts, the repeated freeze-thaw cycle can wreak havoc on pavement, leading to cracks, crumbling, and, eventually, dreaded potholes. Hitting just one nasty pothole can cause serious damage to your tires, wheels, and alignment. To keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely this spring, it's important to have your tires and alignment checked and serviced regularly to ensure that hitting potholes doesn't leave any lasting damage to your car.
How Potholes Can Damage Tires and Alignment
Potholes form when water seeps into cracks in the pavement, then expands as it freezes, breaking up the surface. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles in the winter and spring, combined with the stress of vehicle traffic, cause the cracks to widen into gaping potholes. In Greeley and surrounding areas, potholes are an unfortunate fact of life this time of year.
Hitting a deep pothole, even at moderate speeds, can instantly damage tires, causing bulges, tread separation, or flats. The impact can also bend or crack wheels. But potholes don't just pose a threat to tires and wheels. Striking a pothole can knock your vehicle out of alignment, causing it to pull to one side or vibrate at certain speeds. Misaligned wheels lead to uneven and premature tire wear, as well as decreased fuel efficiency. If you regularly commute between Fort Collins and Greeley, your vehicle faces a high risk of pothole damage.
Check Your Tires Regularly
To minimize the effect of potholes on your car, it's critical to keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires are more susceptible to damage on impact. Check your tire pressure at least once a month, and be sure to inflate to the manufacturer's recommended PSI. It's also a good idea to inspect your tires regularly for signs of damage, like bulges, blisters, or uneven wear. If you notice any problems with your tires, have them assessed by a professional as soon as possible.
Keeping your wheels in proper alignment is another key way to protect your tires. If your vehicle consistently pulls to one side or the steering wheel vibrates, it's likely time for an alignment. Having your alignment checked and adjusted once or twice per year can extend your tire life and improve handling. Longmont area drivers should be especially proactive about alignments to counteract the abundant potholes on local roads.
Visit Hyundai of Greeley for Spring Service
To ensure your tires and alignment are in top condition this spring, trust the factory-trained technicians at Hyundai of Greeley. Our modern service center is equipped to handle all your maintenance and repair needs. We use the latest alignment technology to restore your vehicle's handling and tire wear to optimal specifications.
Drivers in Frederick can have peace of mind knowing that Hyundai of Greeley offers top-quality tires from leading brands. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right tires for your specific vehicle and driving needs. With our convenient online scheduling tool, it's easy to book your spring maintenance visit at a time that fits your busy schedule.
Don't let potholes put a dent in your spring. Stop by Hyundai of Greeley for a tire inspection and alignment check to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely all season long. With proper maintenance, you can navigate those bumpy roads with confidence. If you have any questions or concerns about spring maintenance, please don't hesitate to ask.
