It’s not unusual for a driver to hit a curb by accident. It can happen if you misjudge your proximity to the structure, if you’re rushing, or if you aren’t looking. Whatever the reason, it’s important to consider the impact’s effect on your vehicle. It may seem minor at the moment, but several problems can arise. Here’s why you should schedule an appointment with an auto mechanic to be safe.

What Can Happen if Your Car Hits a Curb?

1. Suspension Woes

A damaged suspension can make it very difficult to handle the vehicle smoothly. If you notice that it seems to bounce when you drive over speed bumps or on rough ground, there could be an issue with the control arm assembly in the suspension. Also known as an A-arm, it’s designed to keep the wheels aligned with the car’s body. It allows the tire to travel by moving up and down. If you knock into a curb, the A-arm can break or bend.

2. Steering Concerns

Steering may become difficult after you hit a curb, and should be inspected by an auto mechanic promptly. You might notice that the car seems to sway to one side, for example, or you may hear a rattling noise when you turn the vehicle. This could occur if the curb damages the tie rods, which are the connective elements between the wheels and the steering column’s driveshaft. These components promote smooth turns, so any damage can cause it to behave erratically.

3. Alignment Worries

When you hit anything on the road, there’s always the chance that it will disturb the wheel alignment. As you drive, you might notice that the vehicle seems to pull to one side. Your auto mechanic can realign the wheels, perform a full auto inspection, replace the rims if they’re bent, and even swap out a tire if it appears damaged in any way. Since tires can slowly lose their integrity once you hit a curb, it’s a good idea to act fast to prevent road mishaps.
 

Are you concerned about the integrity of your vehicle after hitting a curb? Turn to the auto mechanics at H & S Tire & Auto Center in Wentzville, MO. Offering more than 70 years of combined experience, the ASE-certified technicians are committed to your safety. They perform thorough auto inspections and car maintenance, and can handle anything from brake repairs to wheel alignment. Visit them online for information, or call them at (636) 327-5225 to schedule an appointment.