Britain’s pothole crisis is hitting drivers harder than ever, according to Kwik Fit’s latest Pothole Impact Tracker report. Over the past year, motorists have paid a record £1.8 billion in pothole-related repairs—up from previous years—averaging £137.40 per repair. The report estimates 12.8 million drivers suffered vehicle damage after hitting potholes.
The problem is shaping car-buying habits: 2.5 million drivers say they chose bigger, more robust cars or SUVs due to poor road conditions, and 5% have upgraded their wheels or tyres to better withstand impacts. Tyres, wheels, and suspension are the most commonly damaged parts, and for one in eight affected drivers, the damage was so severe that their car needed recovery.
Many drivers don’t realise damage right away; a third only noticed problems days after the incident. Over five million drivers damaged their cars after mistaking a pothole for a puddle.
Public dissatisfaction with road conditions is high: 62% of drivers say their local roads have got worse over the past year. Despite this, just one in five have reported potholes to authorities. Kwik Fit urges drivers to keep tyres properly inflated, report potholes, and check their spare wheel or emergency repair options. Drivers concerned about hidden damage can get a free safety inspection at any Kwik Fit centre.
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