A pothole is usually a base problem showing through the surface.
Once the support under asphalt has eroded or collapsed, surface filler alone is rarely a lasting answer. The repair method should match what failed below the visible hole.
Repair options
Full-depth saw-cut patching
The failed area is cut back to sound pavement, damaged asphalt and weak base material are removed, the foundation is rebuilt and compacted, and new hot-mix asphalt is installed to the surrounding grade.
Infrared repair
Infrared heating softens existing asphalt so the damaged area can be scarified, blended with fresh material, and recompacted with a smoother thermal transition at the repair edge.
Emergency cold patching
Cold patch can quickly eliminate an immediate hazard when weather or plant availability prevents permanent hot-mix work. It is best treated as a short-term safety repair until a permanent fix can be scheduled.