Pothole Damage to Tyres: What to Look For

A pothole impact is essentially a sudden, sharp blow to the tyre and wheel. The tyre is momentarily compressed between the sharp edge of the pothole and the hard rim of the wheel. Even at relatively low speeds, this compression can be severe enough to sever the internal cords of the tyre, creating a structural failure that may not be immediately visible from the outside.

The wheel itself can also be damaged — bent or cracked alloy wheels are common after significant pothole impacts. A bent wheel may cause a persistent vibration, while a cracked wheel can cause a slow or sudden loss of tyre pressure. Neither is safe to ignore.

After hitting a significant pothole, pull over safely as soon as possible and inspect the affected tyre. Look for sidewall bulges — a clear sign of internal damage. Check for cuts or splits in the tyre, particularly on the sidewall where the impact force is concentrated. Check whether the tyre is visibly flat or losing pressure.

Don't just look at the tyre — check the wheel too. Run your hand around the inside of the rim (carefully) to feel for bends or cracks. Look at the outer face of the wheel for obvious deformation. If the wheel looks damaged, have it checked by a professional — some cracks are very difficult to see visually but can be detected by a specialist.

If a pothole on a public road causes damage to your vehicle, you may be able to claim compensation from the local authority responsible for maintaining that road. Take photographs of the pothole and any damage to your vehicle immediately, noting the date, time, and precise location. Get a written quote or invoice for the repair work.

Submit a claim to Cardiff Council (or the relevant authority) explaining what happened and attaching your evidence. Councils have a defence if they can show the road was being inspected and maintained to a reasonable standard, but claims are still worth pursuing. Motoring organisations like the RAC and AA have guidance on the claims process.