Cold temps and El Nino rains create potholes

LOS ANGELES – Cold nighttime temperatures and the recent El Nino rain storms are creating new potholes that some motorists have found themselves encountering. Potholes are caused when water works its way into asphalt and cracks it. Potholes can damage vehicle suspension components and increase the possibility of costly repairs, said Steve Mazor of the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center.

Mazor recommends the following tips to help protect vehicles – and drivers – against the jarring experience of hitting a pothole in their path.

Maintain proper...