As you might guess, distracted driving is a huge factor in car accidents (almost 300,000 injuries a year to be blamed). Even seemingly small collisions can have a significant impact on a vehicle’s frame.
So no matter how big the impact, let’s take a quick look at why proper frame alignment after an auto collision is so important.
What is Frame Alignment?
Auto frame alignment refers to a technology used in automotive repair and maintenance, particularly for vehicles that have been in collisions or accidents. It’s a process that uses computerized measuring and adjusting systems to make sure a vehicle’s frame and body are properly aligned. After a collision, even if the damage appears minimal, the frame can become misaligned, leading to a host of problems if not properly addressed.
Safety Concerns
The most critical reason for proper frame alignment is safety. A misaligned frame can compromise your vehicle’s ability to protect you in future collisions. Crumple zones, designed to absorb impact energy, may not function as intended if the frame is out of alignment. Additionally, airbag deployment timing and effectiveness can be affected, potentially putting you and your passengers at greater risk.
Impact on Vehicle Performance
Frame misalignment can lead to numerous performance issues. You may notice:
- Uneven tire wear
- Steering wheel vibration
- The vehicle pulling to one side while driving
- Decreased fuel efficiency due to increased drag
- Difficulty in maintaining a straight line without constant steering adjustment
These issues affect your driving experience and can also lead to premature wear on various vehicle components, resulting in costly repairs down the line.
Long-term Effects on Vehicle Integrity
Ignoring frame alignment issues can have long-lasting consequences for your vehicle. Over time, the misalignment can cause increased stress on suspension components, steering systems, and the frame itself. This added stress can lead to accelerated wear and tear, potentially shortening the lifespan of your vehicle and decreasing its resale value.
The Importance of Professional Assessment
After a collision, it’s important to have your vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified professional, even if the damage appears minor. Modern frame alignment techniques use advanced computer-aided systems to measure and correct frame positioning with extreme precision. These systems can detect misalignments that are not visible to the naked eye but can still significantly impact your vehicle’s performance and safety.
Cost Considerations
While the cost of proper frame alignment might seem high initially, it pales in comparison to the potential long-term expenses of ignoring the issue. From increased fuel consumption to premature tire replacement and more frequent repairs, the costs can quickly add up. Also, the safety risks associated with driving a vehicle with a misaligned frame are simply not worth the potential savings.
Closing Thoughts
By having your vehicle’s frame correctly aligned following an accident, you’re investing in your safety, the longevity of your vehicle, and your peace of mind on the road.
If you need frame straightening services for your car or truck, please get in touch with us today.