Does Driving an SUV Over Curb Damage the Car?
3 Answers
Driving an SUV over a curb can damage the car, potentially scratching the wheel hubs. Here are specific details about automotive wheel hubs: 1. Function: The primary role of wheel hubs is to influence the size of the braking system and the selection of tire specifications. Larger wheel hubs can accommodate bigger braking systems, while wider wheel hubs allow for the use of higher-performance wider tires. 2. Composition: Automotive wheel hubs refer to the components that bear the rigid rotational inertia between the car and the tires, also known as rims or steel wheels. A complete wheel hub unit includes automotive bearings, also called flanges, which work with the tires to support the wheels.
I've been driving an SUV for several years and often encounter situations where I have to climb curbs when parking, especially in narrow urban alleys with limited space. But to be honest, this maneuver really damages the car. The tire edges are prone to scratches or bulges, the wheel rims face a high risk of deformation under excessive force, and the suspension system wears out faster. Once, in a hurry to get up, I heard a "crack" sound from the chassis, and later during repairs, I found a small crack in the suspension link. So now, when climbing curbs, I try to go as slow as possible, like climbing a slope, aligning the angle properly instead of charging at it sideways, and I limit the frequency to no more than once or twice a month. During vehicle maintenance, I always ask the mechanic to thoroughly check for any scratches on the chassis and the condition of the suspension. SUVs have higher ground clearance, making it easier to climb curbs, but you should never take it lightly.
When I was younger, I loved the off-road feel of SUVs and found it thrilling to mount curbs. But later, I personally experienced the downsides. Once, I rushed too fast, and the rim got scraped and deformed, requiring a full replacement. Now I know to be more cautious: keep the speed below walking pace, approach slowly at the right angle, and minimize impact. Constantly mounting curbs recklessly can fatigue the suspension and scratch the undercarriage, leading to costly and troublesome repairs. While SUVs can climb curbs for convenience, it shouldn’t be treated as a show of skill. It’s best to park in proper spots regularly to keep the car in good condition for longer.
