It happens more than you think. Maybe you’re headed to the grocery store. You went for some apples. The parking lot is crowded. A car hits yours. The driver steps out, apologies spilling out of their mouth. You trade information. Take a few pictures. The police come and you talk. You’re a little shaken up. Remembering the apples, you jog into the store.
That’s it, right? Most fender benders aren’t too bad, but some can cause some serious underlying damage. If you don’t get your vehicle checked for those issues, you might be at risk.
What Qualifies as a Fender Bender?
Fender benders are minor accidents happening at slow speeds. They result in little to no visible damage to vehicles and no major injuries to passengers. Accidents like these usually happen in parking lots, around stop signs, or in stop-and-go traffic. While there’s little to see on the outside, it’s important to check your vehicle to see if you need a fender bender repair.
The Hidden Damage of Fender Benders
Once you get over the initial shock of an accident, it’s time to check for additional damage.
Structural Damage
While the exterior might look fine, fender benders can cause problems with your vehicle’s frame, crumple zones, or doors. These issues can make your vehicle more dangerous in a crash.
Alignment Issues
A fender bender might throw your car out of alignment, which can cause issues with tire wear, steering control, and fuel efficiency. While there may not be serious issues right after an incident, over time, alignment problems can take a toll on your vehicle.
Damage to Safety Features
Your car’s safety features are designed to protect you in a crash. But even a minor fender bender can cause damage to airbags, sensors, and other safety systems. If these systems aren’t working properly, you could be seriously injured in another accident.
Compromised Undercarriage
A vehicle’s undercarriage is where important parts like the exhaust system, fuel lines, and suspension live. Even a low-impact collision can cause dents, cracks, or other damage that could lead to long-term issues like fluid leaks or mechanical failures.
The Safety Risks of Ignoring Fender Bender Repairs
Your vehicle may look okay after a minor crash, but it’s important to recognize the potential safety risks:
- Reduced Vehicle Safety: With enough impact, a fender bender could affect your safety systems, including sensors, airbags, and framing. This could put you at higher risk if you get into another, more serious crash.
- Costlier Repairs Over Time: A fender bender can knock your vehicle out of alignment, impair its structural integrity, or leave it with undetected cracks in the bumper. Over time, these issues could worsen, leaving you with more expensive repairs.
- Decreased Vehicle Value: Even minor incidents can affect your vehicle’s resale value. Evidence of accidents and repairs sometimes raises flags for potential buyers. If there are long-term issues due to a fender bender, that can also impact your vehicle’s value.
How to Check for Fender Bender Damage
While consulting a professional will give you the most comprehensive results, there are a few initial checks you can do before a fender bender repair.
1. Perform a Visual Inspection
Glance over your vehicle to find any noticeable damage. Be sure to check these major areas:
- Bumpers: cracks, dents, scratches
- Headlights/tail lights: cracks, scratches
- Undercarriage: visible damage, fluid leaks
- Tires: punctures, scrapes
2. Test for Alignment Issues
After a fender bender, take a second to drive your car around. If you notice any pulling or drifting to one side, you might have some alignment issues. While an auto shop can fix these, waiting can cause more problems with your tires and steering.
3. Check Trunk and Doors
Make sure your trunk and doors open and close properly. If you have issues with your trunk or doors, it might be a sign that your frame is damaged as well. Open and close them a few times, noting any resistance, gaps, or misalignment.
When To Get Professional Help for Fender Bender Repairs
After you complete your initial inspection, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional. Many auto body shops will perform a comprehensive inspection to address any structural or body-related problems resulting from your accident. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, like new fluid leaks, or doors not closing properly, you should take your vehicle in for repairs. Issues that may not seem bad at first can pose serious risks if they get worse.
Quality Vehicle Care Starts at Valley Collision
If you’ve had a fender bender recently, the team at Valley Collision is ready to help! Our team of experts can diagnose and fix both structural and body issues that go unnoticed. Contact us for an estimate today and protect your car from hidden damages.
