Hot summer blamed for rise in pothole incidents

AN increase in pothole-related vehicle breakdowns has been attributed to high temperatures.

- NEIL LANCEFIELD

The AA said it received 50,091 UK call-outs in July caused by poor road surfaces.

This is up 2.1% compared with the same month last year, and reverses a trend of declining pothole-related breakdowns earlier in 2025.

High temperatures this summer are partly to blame for the increase, according to the AA.

It said heat has caused worsening of already weak road surfaces, worn or damaged tyres being more susceptible to failure, and an increase in tourists using rural roads which often receive a low priority for maintenance.

Common vehicle problems caused by potholes include damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension springs and distorted wheels.

RAC figures show the average cost of repairing anything more than a puncture is £460.