The jarring thud of hitting an unexpected pothole on a Malaysian road is a horrible feeling. Often, you might check the tire and think you've gotten away with it. But the unseen damage to your suspension—specifically to the control arm bushings—can create a serious safety issue. MyMechanic is here to explain the signs of this common pothole-induced failure.
Control arms are the hinged components that connect your car's frame to the wheel hub. They are what allow the wheels to move up and down with the road surface while staying firmly located. The control arm bushings are the rubber pivot points. They are designed to absorb vibrations and allow for smooth movement, but they are also a weak point during a sharp impact.
When you hit a pothole, the immense, sudden force can tear the rubber bushing or knock it out of its housing entirely.
A failed bushing means the control arm is no longer held securely in place. This allows for unwanted movement of the wheel, leading to a number of dangerous symptoms.
This is not a problem to be ignored. A damaged control arm bushing means your wheel alignment is compromised, and your steering is no longer predictable. This significantly affects your ability to control the car in an emergency maneuver.
If you have hit a bad pothole and are experiencing any of these symptoms, the safest course of action is to pull over and call for a professional inspection and tow. Continuing to drive not only risks a loss of control but can also cause accelerated wear to your tires, ball joints, and other steering components. MyMechanic will provide a safe flatbed tow to a qualified workshop where the damage can be properly assessed and repaired.
Don't gamble with your safety after a bad pothole strike. If your steering feels off or you hear suspension noises, contact MyMechanic. We will safely tow your Singapore-registered car in Malaysia to a workshop to have the critical suspension components inspected and repaired.
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Potholes are an unavoidable hazard on many roads, and the damage they cause can be more than just a flat tire. A compromised control arm bushing is a direct threat to your vehicle's stability and your safety. If you feel any change in your car's steering or hear new noises after a hard impact, the only safe choice is to stop and have it inspected. A tow from MyMechanic to a workshop is a small price to pay to ensure your car's suspension is sound before continuing your journey.
