The chassis is a car’s frame or overall structure. It is the part responsible for housing the vehicle’s various parts, from the engine and transmission system to the brakes and tires. Chassis are built to provide stability and power, but due to their scope, problems could take time to identify. A towing service can help if you’re stranded due to a damaged chassis. However, it is important to be able to identify the types of chassis and their functions to help mitigate any car trouble. 

Forms of Car Chassis

There are two types of chassis commonly used today. A body-on-frame chassis gets its name from the way the vehicle’s body sits on the frame. The two parts work independently and are not directly attached to each other. This type of chassis is usually used on heavy automobiles, like commercial trucks and towing service vehicles. 

Unibody chassis come in one piece, as the name suggests. Mainly used on lighter cars, their design improves vehicle handling, and the lighter weight is helpful for lower fuel consumption. Since this type of chassis is built in one piece, the frames are more expensive to fix. If the damage is bad enough, they can’t be repaired at all. On the other hand, the body-on-frame chassis models are easier to fix or modify as needed. 

Components of Car Chassis 

The chassis serves as the housing for a number of vital systems within your vehicle. Some components work in tandem with other mechanisms in the car, based on their intended functions. There are many components, including: 

• Framing and structure: The frame and structure allow vehicles to carry heavy loads, including passengers and cargo. The framing itself is composed of side and horizontal rods, which hold parts together and keep them balanced in terms of weight and position. 
   
• Suspension system: Your suspension is responsible for keeping your tires in contact with the road as much as possible. The chassis supports the suspension and works to reduce vibrations and jolts throughout the vehicle. It absorbs the impacts on the road, working with the suspension to create a smooth driving experience.

• Braking: Vehicle chassis are built to resist the force applied when you hit the brakes. Sudden stops at high speeds can create a heavy load on the vehicle’s frame, which is why the chassis is designed with force bearing capacity in mind.  

If you sustain a damaged chassis and you’re stranded on the side of the road, turn to Mt. Burney Towing in Burney, CA. Their staff will travel long distances to make sure you and your vehicle make it to a safe place in the shortest amount of time possible. For everything from flat tires to lockouts, call their 24-hour towing service line at (503) 335-3333 or contact them online for help.