Did you know a well-maintained modern car can last up to 12 years? A sturdier and well-fitted frame is a major factor that extends a vehicle’s longevity.
A damaged vehicle frame can’t absorb impact forces effectively. This increases the risk of unsafe driving and potential auto collisions.
Taking your car to an auto repair technician allows for a thorough inspection. A mechanic may even replace an excessively damaged frame to enhance your car’s stability.
Do you think your car’s frame might be damaged? Discover the top 5 signs that indicate the need to take it to an auto body repair technician.
1. Unusual Noises
When a frame warps or cracks, it affects how the car’s weight gets distributed. This causes some parts of the car to rub against each other.
Some of the strange noises produced by cars with damaged frames include:
- Creaking
- Squealing
- Clanking
- Rattling
- Whining
You may hear these noises when slowing down. This includes when going over a bump or taking a corner. Vibrations may also occur when driving at high speeds.
2. Visible Damage
Rust is a common visible damage on car frames. Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of car frames over time. A weak frame can easily snap or bend while driving.
Rust in the frames may spread to other car parts like wires, exhaust pipes, and engines. This can cause vehicle damage, like oil and gas leaks. There may also be electrical problems like malfunctioning lighting or battery drain.
Bent, twisted, or crumpled metal frame is also visible damage to check for. An auto repair expert can help straighten the frame and enhance your vehicle’s performance.
3. Uneven Tire Wear
A cracked or bent frame exerts excess stress on the suspension system. Because of this, the wheels become misaligned and unstable. Imbalanced wheels wear out unevenly, showing signs of cupping or bald spots.
A damaged frame may also cause the coil springs to sag. Sagged coil springs lose their normal height, affecting normal weight distribution and suspension. Damaged frames also cause uneven tire wear by:
- Misaligning toe and camber angles
- Damaging arm bushings
- Bending struts or spindles
Get your car immediately fixed and replace the worn-out tires to avoid some safety risks.
4. Poor Alignment
A vehicle with a damaged frame is difficult to drive because of misalignment. Controlling a car with a damaged frame may be challenging because it pulls to one side – the steering ability declines.
Get your car immediately inspected if you experience alignment problems. A mechanic knows the right frame alignment process for your vehicle.
5. Improperly Fitting Components
Because of imbalanced suspension, doors, trunk, and hood may fail to fit correctly. The misalignment creates gaps around these components.
Realignment by experts will enable easier closing and opening of the door. This also minimizes the risks of break-ins and water or wind leaks while driving.
Get Your Damaged Vehicle Frame Fixed
A functional frame can enhance your car’s durability, functionality, and safety. You avoid unforeseen safety risks that cause costly accident repairs.
Looking for an expert to repair your damaged vehicle frame? Limerick Auto Body is an experienced auto collision repair company that can help get your vehicle back on the road quickly.
Contact us today to get an estimate.