Car accidents are always a shock, and the aftermath can be just as jarring. While some damage, like scratches or dents, is purely cosmetic, other issues can affect your vehicle’s core structure.
Damage to your car’s frame is a serious issue that needs immediate auto frame straightening. Even if the car still runs, a compromised frame affects its safety and can put you and your passengers at risk. It’s essential to have a professional repair the structure before you get back behind the wheel.
What Is Auto Frame Straightening?
Auto frame straightening is a specialized collision repair technique used to correct damage to a vehicle’s structure. When a collision compromises the frame’s integrity, straightening realigns it to the manufacturer’s original specifications. This process ensures the vehicle can safely absorb impact in the future.
When Does a Car Require Frame Straightening?
Any collision that pushes a vehicle’s frame out of alignment may require auto frame straightening. There are many types of accidents that could send your vehicle to a collision repair shop. For example, a front-end collision can cause the frame to sag or twist, while an impact on the corner of your vehicle can cause sway damage.
If you’re rear-ended or involved in a head-on collision, you might experience mash frame damage. This means the frame has crumpled inward on itself from the force of the impact. While frame damage can be obvious, it isn’t always. Even if your car looks fine, have a qualified technician inspect it to ensure it’s safe to drive.
Signs of a Bent Car Frame
After an accident, it can be hard to tell if your car has frame damage just by looking at it. However, there are several key warning signs that point to a structural issue:
- Uneven gaps between body panels, like the hood and fenders.
- The car pulls to one side while you’re driving.
- Unusual noises, such as creaking or squealing, after an impact.
- Misaligned wheels or a steering wheel that isn’t centered.
- Tires wear down unevenly or more quickly than usual.
- Doors, the hood, or the trunk are suddenly hard to open or close.
- Visible bending or sagging in the frame or body of the car.
If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a professional collision repair shop immediately.
How Does Frame Straightening Work?
An auto frame straightening machine is used to elevate the vehicle for repair. Technicians place movable, hydraulic posts around the car to work on different areas. Next, they use laser technology and automated systems to determine the extent of the damage and the precise adjustments needed to bring the frame back into alignment.
The vehicle is then securely fastened to the machine’s platform. Chains from the posts are attached to the damaged sections of the frame. A technician will very carefully adjust the posts, which increases the tension on the chains to pull the frame back into its original shape. The hydraulic power of the posts is strong enough to reshape the metal and restore the car’s structural integrity.
What Happens If I Don’t Get My Bent Frame Straightened?
Driving with a damaged frame is dangerous and can lead to more significant problems down the line. If you don’t invest in auto frame straightening, you could face invalid insurance, unsafe driving conditions, and serious legal consequences.
Misalignment Affects Your Airbags
A bent frame can disrupt the placement of your car’s airbag sensors. If these sensors aren’t in the correct positions, your airbags may not deploy correctly in a collision, or they might deploy unexpectedly. Either way, they could cause a serious injury.
Suspension and Steering Risks
Your vehicle’s suspension and steering systems are mounted directly to the frame. When the frame is bent, it throws them out of alignment, so your car will be difficult to control, especially at high speeds or during turns.
Tire and Wheel Alignment Issues
Frame damage is a leading cause of persistent wheel alignment problems. Even with new tires or frequent alignments, a bent frame will cause uneven and rapid tire wear that costs you money in replacement tires.
Invisible Long-Term Harm
An unrepaired frame will continue to put stress on other parts of your car. Over time, this can cause premature wear and tear on the engine, transmission, body panels, and almost every other part in your car.
Is My Car Safe to Drive After Frame Straightening?
Yes. Once the frame has been repaired by an experienced technician, you can be confident that it’s safe to drive. Electronic measuring systems are used to ensure the frame is realigned in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
How to Find a Qualified Frame Straightening Expert
Auto frame straightening is a precise job that requires specialist skills and equipment, so it’s important to find the right collision repair shop. Not all auto repair shops are equipped or have the training to perform this type of work correctly.
Look for a shop with technicians who hold I-CAR Gold Class certification. This is the highest level of training in the collision repair industry and shows a commitment to quality and safety.
At Valley Collision, our technicians are Gold Class certified and have extensive experience in frame repair for all types of vehicles in the Salt Lake City area. We follow industry best practices to ensure that your vehicle is repaired correctly and meets all safety standards. Contact us today for a free estimate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is frame straightening worth it?
Yes, if the damage is repairable and the car is otherwise in good condition, frame straightening is worth it. It restores the vehicle’s safety and structural integrity, which is essential for protecting you and your passengers.
Will insurance cover frame straightening?
Most comprehensive and collision insurance policies cover frame straightening if the damage resulted from a covered event, like an accident. Your insurance adjuster will assess the damage to determine if the car is repairable or a total loss.
Can a car be totaled because of frame damage?
A car can be declared a total loss if the cost to repair the frame damage exceeds a certain percentage of the vehicle’s actual cash value. This percentage varies by state and insurance provider.
How long does frame straightening take?
The time required for frame straightening depends on the severity of the damage. Minor adjustments might take a few days, while extensive repairs could take a week or longer. A qualified technician can give you an accurate time estimate after a thorough inspection.
