The frame beneath your car or truck is called the chassis, and it has a lot riding on it. Maintaining your auto frame’s integrity is a crucial part of proper auto maintenance. Over time, normal wear and tear can take a toll on your vehicle’s undercarriage, and even minor collisions like bumping into a curb can damage the frame. Signs of chassis damage may appear subtle at first, but unattended frame damage can worsen and present serious safety issues. Here’s how to tell if your chassis has problems.

5 Signs of Chassis Damage

1. The Frame is Visibly Dented or Twisted

Getting under the vehicle and checking for visible damage is the most natural place to start, but the absence of visible evidence doesn’t mean it is undamaged. However, noticeable dents, rust, cracks, or creases indicate your car or truck’s chassis is badly damaged and needs immediate auto repair. 

2. You’re Using More Fuel

There are many causes for declining fuel efficiency, but if you’re filling up more frequently, it might mean the chassis is damaged. Frame damage can unbalance your car’s motor and fuel system, causing it to consume more fuel than it should.

3. You Hear Unusual Noises While Driving

A bent auto frame can cause creaking, squeaking, humming, rattling, and other unusual noises on the road. If you hear any unfamiliar sounds coming from your vehicle while driving, get your chassis inspected immediately, as unchecked frame issues can worsen and damage other areas of the car.

4. Steering Is Difficult

Poor handling, running over objects, hitting speed bumps or railroad tracks too fast, and other factors can cause damage. If your steering wheel is pulling to the left or right while driving, it could mean your frame is bent. If you’ve had an alignment done and the vehicle still pulls to one side, get your chassis checked.

5. Tire Tread is Uneven

Your regular auto maintenance schedule should include tire rotation, which promotes balanced tire wear. An uneven tread could indicate the frame is compromised. A bent chassis can impair auto suspension and alignment, leading to uneven wear on one or more tires.

If you spot any of these issues and think your chassis may be damaged, the pros at Precision Import Auto Service can help. Specializing in Asian imports, they provide St. Louis, MO, with expert preventive auto maintenance and immediate auto repair for your Honda®, Acura®, Toyota®, Lexus®, Scion®, Mazda®, Nissan®, Infiniti®, Subaru®, Hyundai®, or Kia®. Call (314) 842-1970 or visit them online to learn more about affordable, reliable chassis repair or schedule an appointment today. Visit their Facebook page for the latest news and special offers.