The UK Pothole Problem and How The Wheel Specialist Is Supporting Drivers
A Growing National Issue
Across the United Kingdom, road conditions have deteriorated to a point where potholes are now one of the most common causes of vehicle damage. What used to be an occasional irritation has become a persistent problem for drivers nationwide. The BBC recently explored the severity of the issue in its Panorama programme titled The Pothole Problem, which you can watch here.
The coverage highlighted the scale of the crisis and the rising financial burden placed on motorists. Adding a practical industry perspective, David Stanley, Franchisee at The Wheel Specialist Leicester, discussed the situation from a workshop viewpoint during an interview on BBC Radio Leicester. His observations reflected exactly what many of our branches are seeing every day. The full interview can be accessed here.
The Rise in Pothole Related Wheel Damage
The impact of poor road conditions is clear within our own network. Since 2020, the number of pothole related wheel repairs carried out by The Wheel Specialist has increased by 166%. This rise is significant and demonstrates that more drivers than ever are experiencing sudden and unexpected wheel damage caused by deteriorating road surfaces.
National data mirrors this trend. The RAC reports that council managed roads in England and Wales contain an average of six potholes per mile. The financial impact on motorists is substantial. In 2024, pothole related vehicle repairs cost UK drivers an estimated £579 million, representing a considerable increase from the previous year.
On an individual level, a typical repair involving wheel or tyre damage often reaches around £300. When broader factors such as delays, accidents and increased fuel use are considered, researchers estimate that pothole related problems could be costing the English economy as much as £14.4 billion every year. These figures highlight why so many motorists are turning to specialist support.
Why Wheels Are Especially Vulnerable
Modern vehicles are often equipped with larger alloy wheels paired with low profile tyres. This configuration enhances performance and appearance but offers far less cushioning when a vehicle hits a pothole. As a result, the wheel absorbs the majority of the impact, which can lead to cracks, buckling, distortion or flat spots. Sometimes the tyre remains inflated and the vehicle feels normal to drive, giving the impression that no harm has been done. However, structural damage is frequently hidden and tends to worsen over time.
Even a moderate pothole strike can affect the integrity of a wheel. Cracks that begin as small fractures can spread with continued use. Slight distortions in shape can lead to vibration, uneven tyre wear or changes in handling. Many drivers only discover the full extent of the damage once the wheel has been removed and professionally inspected.
How The Wheel Specialist Helps Repair Pothole Damage
The Wheel Specialist has extensive experience supporting drivers whose wheels have been damaged by potholes. Our process begins with a thorough inspection. The wheel is removed from the vehicle so that every area can be examined properly. This is important because many forms of damage are not visible when the wheel is still fitted.
If a wheel has buckled but remains structurally sound, we use controlled hydraulic straightening equipment to restore its correct shape. When a crack is present, we arrange for the wheel to be repaired by a trusted third party specialist who is equipped to carry out this work safely and correctly. This ensures that any structural repair meets high standards before the wheel returns to our workshop for finishing. Where the impact has damaged the protective coating or surface finish, we perform a full refurbishment that includes stripping, preparing and refinishing the wheel to a high standard. If the tyre has been affected during the impact, we can assist with replacement and balancing to ensure that the wheel is ready for safe use again.
During his BBC Radio Leicester interview, David Stanley emphasised how important it is for drivers to act promptly after hitting a pothole. Issues that appear minor immediately after the impact often become far more serious if ignored. Early inspection and repair not only protect the vehicle but also help prevent higher costs later on.
What Drivers Should Do After Striking a Pothole
Motorists who hit a pothole should avoid assuming there is no damage simply because the tyre has not deflated. A careful visual check of the wheel and tyre can help identify obvious issues but it is not a guarantee that the wheel is safe. Paying attention to new vibrations, noises or changes in handling can indicate that structural damage has occurred. Photographing the pothole and recording its location and the time of the incident may support any future claim. Most importantly, arranging an inspection with The Wheel Specialist as soon as possible allows any damage to be assessed before it develops further.
Supporting Drivers Through a Continuing Challenge
The renewed focus created by the Panorama investigation reinforces that potholes are not isolated incidents. For many drivers they have become a routine part of daily travel. The 166% increase in pothole related wheel repairs within The Wheel Specialist network since 2020 illustrates the scale of the challenge. By providing expert assessment, arranging trusted specialist support where needed and delivering high quality refurbishment, our teams help drivers restore their wheels and protect their vehicles from long term harm. While road conditions may be beyond the control of individual motorists, timely professional assistance ensures that they can continue their journeys safely and with confidence.
If you have hit a pothole, let our experts check your wheels before hidden damage becomes costly. Contact us today.