You might have been able to drive off after that minor fender bender, but did it do more damage than you think? Believe it or not, it’s possible that your car has frame damage and needs to have the frame straightened. Here’s what Collision Correction & Customs wants you to know.
The Car’s Doors Don’t Close Properly
One big sign that your car’s frame is out of alignment is that the doors just don’t close the way that they used to. It might take a little more force to open or close each door, or you might not be able to make them budge at all. Regardless, the problem is that the frame needs straightening.
You’re Hearing Unusual Noises
If you’re hearing new sounds as you drive away, like metallic squeals, it’s possible that’s because parts of the frame that didn’t touch before are now scraping against each other. You might hear the sounds all over, or they could be something you only hear coming from one side of the car. Getting the frame checked helps you determine exactly what’s going on.
The Car Handles Differently
Something else you might experience is that the car just feels like it handles differently. It might pull to one side or the other or it can feel as if the car seems to be moving sideways a bit. You’re probably not imagining it, although you might try to tell yourself that you are.
You Can See Parts of the Undercarriage
Normally you might not see much of your car’s undercarriage, but if there are parts that seem to be hanging a little lower than usual, it’s time to take a closer look. Try getting on the ground and looking under the car, using a flashlight if you need some more light. You’re looking for anything that doesn’t look like it’s where it should be.
There’s Damage Under the Hood
Even a minor accident with an impact in just the wrong place can do some damage to your car’s frame and therefore under the hood. After an incident, pop the hood and look for any signs that there’s damage in the engine compartment. You’re looking for things like disconnected engine components, bolts that are broken, or basically anything that just doesn’t look right.
Frame straightening is a common requirement after an accident. If you’ve recently been in a wreck and need to have your frame checked, give us a call at Collision Correction & Customs in Fuquay-Varina, NC. We’ll be happy to take a look and to let you know what your car needs.
