The harsh winter has reportedly inflicted more damage on German roads than in previous years, the ADAC told on Sunday. The main culprit appears to be the frequent swings between freezing and thawing, which create a range of problems-especially on municipal roads. The resulting costs are expected to climb into the billions of euros.
When the thermometer dips near the freezing point, water can seep into cracks and other pre‑existing weak spots. Once frozen, that water expands, driving further fractures into the asphalt. During thaw, voids open up beneath the road surface; the weight of passing traffic then collapses those cavities, producing potholes.
To keep roads safe, the ADAC stresses that short‑term fixes-such as laying cold asphalt-are necessary. Replacing a single pothole can cost up to €200. For long‑term quality, a systematic maintenance programme is required. A 2023 study by the German Institute for Urban Studies found that about one third of municipal roads already show significant damage, and that the need for repair and new construction is estimated at around €283 billion.
