When the weather gets warmer, the snow is melting, and the nasty potholes reappear on our roads, you know spring has sprung in Canada. Every year, there is a peak in car repairs due to potholes incidents, which is why FIX4 Capital has rounded up 5 useful tips to prevent important damages to your car this season.
Tip 1: Slow down (but don’t brake!)
You know the really bad one you always try to avoid… Slowing down on roads where potholes are most common in the spring as the slow melt and the temperature starts to rise is a simple, but very effective way to avoid any important damages to your car. Slowing down allows you to spot potholes in advance and make sure you can safely avoid them. Avoid braking when crossing a pothole, however, as it could make the impact worse.
Tip 2: Keep a longer distance with the cars ahead
Slowing down will definitely help you, but keeping a longer-than-usual distance between the cars ahead of you will give you enough time to spot the biggest potholes and quickly think of your exit strategy. If the cars ahead of you quickly break to avoid a pothole, you will also have enough time to react yourself.
Tip 3: Beware of water puddles
Be cautious of all water puddles on the road as they could be hiding nasty potholes. With the melting snow in spring, puddles are very common on roads and it is important to be mindful of them. The most common car damages during this time of year are often caused by potholes disguised as harmless puddles.
Tip 4: Have the proper air pressure in tires
Proper spring car maintenance is crucial as we transition out the Canadian winter season. To avoid important damages from potholes, it is important to at least maintain the proper air pressure in your tires. This will reduce the impact when hitting deep potholes.
Tip 5: Report the dangerous potholes
You should adopt the habit of reporting the biggest potholes by calling your city or municipality with its exact location. When multiple people report the same pothole, the city will most likely send a crew as soon as possible to fill it and avoid further complains and damages.
Find these tips and more auto care information at fix4.com or by following us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.