If you've ever noticed that roads seem rougher once winter ends, you’re not imagining things. Potholes become more common and severe after cold weather, making spring a frustrating time for drivers. These road hazards can cause significant damage to your tires, suspension, and alignment, leading to costly repairs. But why do potholes get worse after winter? The answer lies in how temperature fluctuations, moisture, and traffic all interact with the road surface.
How Potholes Form
Potholes don’t appear overnight. They start as small cracks in the pavement caused by natural wear and tear, heavy traffic, and weather exposure. Once cracks form, water seeps into them, settling beneath the surface of the road.
During winter, temperatures often fluctuate between freezing and thawing. When water freezes, it expands, pushing the pavement upward and creating gaps underneath. As temperatures rise, the ice melts, leaving behind empty spaces where the pavement is now weak. The weight of passing vehicles forces the weakened asphalt to break apart, eventually creating potholes.
Why Do Potholes Get Worse After Winter
Several factors contribute to potholes becoming larger and more frequent in early spring:
Repeated Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Winter weather brings constant temperature changes, with freezing nights and warmer days. Each time water freezes and expands, then thaws and contracts, it weakens the pavement further. By the time winter ends, roads have gone through multiple cycles of expansion and contraction, leading to widespread cracking and pavement deterioration.
Heavy Traffic on Weakened Roads
Once the ice melts and creates air pockets under the road, the pavement becomes more fragile. Heavy vehicles, like trucks and buses, put pressure on these weakened areas, causing the surface to break apart more easily. This is why potholes tend to appear in high-traffic areas like intersections and highways after winter.
Moisture and Road Salt Effects
Salt is often used to melt ice and improve traction on winter roads, but it also accelerates asphalt breakdown. While salt lowers the freezing point of water, preventing ice from forming, it also allows moisture to penetrate deeper into the cracks. This traps water underneath the road surface, making freeze-thaw cycles even more destructive.
Delayed Road Repairs in Winter
During winter, it’s difficult for road crews to perform long-term pothole repairs because cold temperatures prevent asphalt from setting properly. Many cities use temporary patching methods during winter, but these are often short-lived. Once spring arrives and temperatures stabilize, road crews can begin permanent repairs, but by then, potholes have already worsened.
The Impact of Potholes on Your Vehicle
Hitting a pothole at high speed can lead to serious damage, including:
- Tire and Wheel Damage – Potholes can cause blown tires, bent rims, and wheel misalignment.
- Suspension and Steering Issues – Repeated pothole impacts wear down shocks, struts, and control arms, leading to rough handling.
- Underbody Damage – Deep potholes can scrape or puncture the exhaust system, oil pan, or other undercarriage components.
If you notice changes in your car’s handling, vibrations in the steering wheel, or uneven tire wear, it’s best to have a professional inspect it for damage.
How to Avoid Pothole Damage
While potholes can’t always be avoided, you can minimize the risk by:
- Driving cautiously – Slowing down on rough roads can help reduce the impact of hitting a pothole.
- Keeping a safe distance – Allowing space between you and other cars helps you spot potholes earlier.
- Maintaining proper tire pressure – Underinflated tires are more vulnerable to pothole damage.
- Avoiding puddles – Potholes often hide beneath standing water, making them difficult to see.
If your vehicle isn’t driving as smoothly as before, pothole damage could be to blame. The experienced team at Stang Auto Tech in Broomfield, CO, can inspect your tires, suspension, and alignment to ensure your car stays safe on the road. Call or visit us today for expert service!