Braking News with Brian: Potholes, Patience, Pavement
Brian Bernard • November 18, 2025
Lately, I’ve noticed a lot of construction, repaving, and road repair happening around Aiken. Yea!! I’m quite happy about this because we all love smooth roads. But, of course, with the good, there always is a bit of bad. In this case, the bad is the hassle of maneuvering through rough terrain and waiting, waiting, and waiting to get through the construction zones. One day, it took almost 12 minutes for me to turn left onto E Pine Log from my shop’s driveway. What is it that Charlie Brown says? I think it’s “AARGH”!
As if the construction delays weren’t enough, the weather has joined the party. Heavy rains create new potholes in the weakened asphalt, and they can wreak havoc on your car’s tires and suspension. At the shop, I’m seeing a higher-than-normal number of cars in my shop requiring alignments and new tires. Many of the tire replacements are due to damaged sidewalls and “choppy” treads.
The tricky part is, a car can drive ‘as straight as an arrow,’ but the steering linkage may be way out of adjustment. That hidden problem can cause tires to wear in no time and, if ignored, may even lead to a dreaded blowout!
So here are a few simple checks you can do to catch alignment, tire, or brake issues before they turn into something bigger:
Pull Test
On a smooth, straight road (Ha-ha, I know, tricky to find these days), momentarily let go of the steering wheel. Does the car pull to the right or left? If the car pulls in one direction, it could be a sign that your car is out of alignment, or that a tire has low air pressure.
Vibration Check
At a steady speed, rest your hands lightly on the steering wheel. If there is a vibration in the steering wheel, that could be an indication of a wheel balance issue or a possible belt separation in a front tire.
Brake Test
When braking at higher speeds, do you feel vibration in the steering wheel or throughout the car? That’s a telltale sign of front suspension problems or warped brake rotors. Both issues can transfer excess play into the steering wheel.
Keeping your car properly maintained not only keeps you safe but also ensures you’ll be ready to fully enjoy those smooth new roads we’ve all been waiting so patiently for!
Drive Safe!
Brian Bernard – Owner, Automotive Workbench
Your Car,… Trusted Care
Discover top preventive maintenance tips at Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Enhance vehicle longevity & performance. Schedule an online appointment now!
Discover expert tune-up tips at Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Boost vehicle performance and longevity. Schedule an online appointment now!
Discover essential car HVAC maintenance tips from Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Trust us for expert auto repair. Visit us today for all your needs!
Discover top suspension tips with Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Enhance your car's performance—call us today!
Discover expert brake care advice from Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Enhance vehicle safety and performance. Call us today!
Discover expert tire care tips at Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Enhance your vehicle’s performance and safety. Schedule an online appointment now.
Master preventive auto care in Aiken with Automotive Workbench. Expert tips to maintain vehicle longevity. Call us today for top-notch service!
Discover expert tune-up services in Aiken at Automotive Workbench. Enhance your car's performance with our skilled team. Schedule an online appointment now!
Enhance your vehicle's performance with expert HVAC care at Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Call us today and ensure comfortable journeys year-round!
Discover expert suspension insights at Automotive Workbench in Aiken, SC. Enhance ride quality and vehicle safety with us. Schedule an online appointment now!
