It’s easy to underestimate the seriousness of rear-end collisions, especially when they happen at relatively low speeds. If you drive away with little more than a scratched bumper and broken taillight, for example, you may not even take your car to the body shop. Since seemingly minor impacts can cause major damage, though, it’s wise to take your vehicle in regardless of how it looks. Here are some of the most common issues that can result from a rear-end crash.

3 Types of Damage a Rear-End Collision Can Cause

1. Poor Alignment

A rear-end collision can knock your vehicle out of alignment. If you notice a steering wobble or any unusual vibrations following an accident, head to the body shop right away. If your car pulls to one side, that could also be indicative of an alignment issue. Failure to fix such a problem will place additional stress on the brakes, tires, and suspension and cause them to wear down faster—as well as posing a serious safety hazard. 

2. Trunk Issues

If your trunk doesn’t open or close properly after your car is hit from behind, it may seem like little more than a minor annoyance. If the trunk’s mechanisms were damaged, though, it’s reasonable to assume other components of the vehicle are in need of repairs as well. A faulty trunk will also hurt the resale value and could increase the risk of getting into another accident if it fails to latch securely. 

3. Transmission Troubles

If your vehicle has all-wheel drive, some of its transmission components are undoubtedly toward the back. As such, you may experience transmission issues following a rear-end collision. Examples include trouble shifting and leaking fluids. Depending on the extent of such damage, you could be at risk of getting into a subsequent wreck every time you drive the vehicle until a body shop has repaired it. 

If your vehicle was recently struck from behind by someone else’s, take it to OHS’ Body Shop. With convenient locations in Columbia Falls, Polson, Kalispell, and Whitefish, MT, this full-service body shop specializes in collision repair and offers 24-hour towing so you can get back on the road as quickly as possible. Backed by extensive experience, their mechanics are ASE®-certified and I-Car Gold Class® professionals. To find the location nearest you, visit their website or call (406) 752-8202.