Sometimes, the damage from a car accident can be worse than it appears. Even if you’ve been involved in a seemingly minor fender-bender and the only visible damage is a surface scratch, your frame could be bent. Of course, this issue can also result from more serious accidents. No matter their cause, however, bent frames always require professional collision repair. Here’s how to tell if your vehicle’s frame has been compromised.

3 Signs of a Bent Frame

1. Improper Door Closure

If your door doesn’t shut properly when entering or exiting your vehicle, take note. In some cases, the door may not close all the way. Or, there could be a slight gap left when the frame is bent, which may cause you to hear air passing through as you’re driving. This can happen with any door, so check all of them to determine whether your vehicle could need collision repair.

2. Alignment Issues

When you’re driving in a straight line, your vehicle shouldn’t pull to one side of the road. This typically indicates a frame issue, which throws off the vehicle’s alignment. Similarly, the wheels may not track properly. If you’re noticing an odd, side-to-side motion while you’re on the road, it may be caused by a bent frame.

3. Uneven Wear

Although you may not notice this change right away, over time, a bent frame can also cause uneven wear and tear on your vehicle. For example, the unnatural pulling of the wheel may cause one or more of your tires to lose tread quicker than the others. Your shocks and suspension will also experience uneven wear, as the weight won’t be distributed correctly. Fortunately, it’s never too late for collision repair to prevent further damage.

Whether you suspect a bent frame or other damage to your vehicle, Heinrich Collision in Hilton, NY, is your source for quality auto body work. Also serving the Spencerport area, this collision repair team is made up of technicians with I-Car Gold Class certification. These professionals have been trusted among the community since 1957 and can help restore your vehicle to its former glory. Browse their services online or call (585) 392-7800 for a quote on repairs.