Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on our roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car crashes cost Americans $340 billion. This astounding amount of money really highlights the consequences of accidents, both in terms of human safety and financial impact While not all accidents result in severe damage thankfully, frame damage is a serious concern that can compromise your vehicle’s safety and performance. Recognizing the signs of frame damage is important for every driver. Here are seven indicators that your car’s frame may have been compromised:
- Uneven Body Gaps. One of the most visible signs of frame damage is uneven gaps between body panels. If you notice that the space between your car’s hood, doors, or trunk and the rest of the body is inconsistent or larger on one side, it could indicate a bent frame.
- Difficulty Opening or Closing Doors. A damaged frame can cause misalignment in your car’s structure. If you suddenly find it challenging to open or close your doors, or if they don’t seem to fit properly in their frames, this could be a sign of frame damage.
- Uneven Tire Wear. Inspect your tires regularly. If you notice that one or more tires are wearing down faster or unevenly compared to the others, it might be due to frame damage affecting your car’s alignment.
- Off-Center Steering Wheel. When driving straight, your steering wheel should be centered. If you find that you need to hold the wheel at an angle to drive in a straight line, this could indicate frame damage that’s affecting your vehicle’s alignment.
- Unusual Noises While Driving. Listen for new or strange noises while driving, especially creaking or clunking sounds. These noises can occur when parts of your car that should be firmly connected are loose due to frame damage.
- Visual Bends or Creases. Inspect the visible parts of your car’s frame, including the areas around the wheel wells and under the doors. Any noticeable bends, creases, or rust in these areas could be signs of frame damage.
- Poor Handling and Tracking. If your car seems to drift to one side while driving on a straight and level road, or if you experience unusual vibrations, it could be due to frame damage affecting your vehicle’s tracking and handling.
Frame damage is not always immediately apparent after an accident, and its effects can worsen over time. If you notice any of these signs, we recommend that you get your vehicle inspected by a professional auto repair shop as soon as possible. Ignoring frame damage can lead to further deterioration of your car’s structure, compromising its safety and potentially leading to more costly repairs down the line.
Your safety on the road is important. Regular inspections and prompt attention to any signs of frame damage can help make sure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy now and in the future.
If you need frame straightening services for your car or truck, please get in touch with us today.