I Hit a Curb. What Do I Need to Check on My Car?

October 7, 2022

Maybe you took a corner a bit too close to the curb and hit it. While hitting a curb might not seem like a huge deal, it can have a big impact on your vehicle. Here's what to check after hitting a curb to ensure everything is still working as it should.

Suspension System

Does hitting a curb hurt your car? Depending on your speed and the height of the curb, it can cause some serious damage to important parts of your vehicle, like the suspension system. Your suspension is made up of several different components that help create a smoother ride when you drive over bumps and rough terrain. However, hitting a curb can put undue strain on these components, causing them to bend or separate.

One of the biggest signs your suspension might be bad is excessive noise or roughness. When parts of your suspension stop working as they should, your suspension loses some of its shock-absorbing ability. If you noticed the smoothness of your drives has changed after hitting a curb, you should have your suspension inspected by professionals.

Wheel Alignment

Your alignment helps keep your tires straight and is something you should have checked at least once a year. You know it's important and might be wondering, "Can hitting a curb mess up alignment?"

Driving over potholes and curbs are common causes of alignment issues. If your vehicle has suffered alignment damage from hitting a curb, you are likely to notice your car pulling to one side. Misalignment can also lead to uneven tire wear, a crooked steering wheel when driving straight, and noisy tires. You should have your alignment looked at right away if you suspect something is wrong.

Rims/Wheels

Your tire is mounted on the wheel, and the rim is the outer part of the wheel that your tire mounts to. Depending on how you hit the curb, it might leave a mark on your wheel or rim. This could be something cosmetic like a scuff or something more worrisome like bending or cracks. If your rim is cracked or significantly bent, you will need to replace the wheel.

Tires

Tire damage from hitting curbs is something you also have to worry about. The impact between your tire and the surface of the curb can pinch the rubber and lead to damage on the sidewall. After hitting a curb, it's a good idea to stop and visually inspect your tire as soon as possible to check for tears or punctures. If the sidewall is damaged, you will need to get a new tire or possibly a new set of tires for your vehicle.

Whether its a pinched tire, damaged suspension, or bent rim, you want to take care of the problem right away. Shop OEM parts at Nissan Parts & Accessories and visit your local authorized service center to repair the damage caused by hitting a curb today.