Hitting a pothole at speed is one of the most common causes of sudden tyre and wheel damage in Cardiff. The sharp impact compresses the tyre against the wheel rim with considerable force, which can cause the tyre sidewall to burst, the wheel to crack or buckle, or the internal tyre structure to be damaged in a way that is not immediately visible. Even if the tyre appears fine after a pothole strike, internal damage may cause a blowout days later.
After any significant pothole impact, inspect your tyre carefully for bulges on the sidewall, cuts or tears, and any cracking around the bead area where the tyre meets the wheel. Check the wheel itself for cracks, bends or scuffs. If the car pulls to one side after the impact, your wheel alignment has almost certainly been knocked out. Unusual vibration through the steering wheel suggests the wheel may be bent or that the tyre has developed an internal fault.
Cardiff Council has a mechanism for reporting potholes and claiming compensation for resulting vehicle damage — keep records and photographs if you intend to pursue a claim. For immediate safety assessment after a pothole strike, call Royal Mobile Tyres on 029 22714889 and one of our technicians will inspect your tyres and wheels at your location and advise on any required repairs or replacements.