After a car accident, it's easy to spot damage like dents, scratches, cracked lights or windows, or broken bumpers. There are other kinds of damage that may not be so readily apparent; however, they still require collision repair to ensure your car stays safe and drivable. Below, learn about several types of accident damage that may be hidden or hard to spot.

What Are Examples of Hidden Collision Damage?

1. Wheel Misalignments

Any impact on a vehicle can cause the wheels to misalign, and the greater the impact, the greater the chances of a serious misalignment. Misalignment occurs when the vehicle's suspension system has become off-kilter and imbalanced, which results in uneven wear and tear on the tires. The tread will wear out faster, and you'll need to replace the tires sooner.

The wheels need to be aligned if the steering wheel is crooked when you're driving straight or the vehicle seems to be "pulling" in one direction or another when in motion. A collision repair professional can align the wheels by adjusting the angles of the suspension so all four tires make even contact with the road.

2. Frame Damage

The frame is the skeleton that holds your car together. It supports all the internal components of the vehicle. If a frame is bent or damaged, the vehicle weight is not evenly distributed, and those inside the vehicle are not fully protected in the event of another accident.

The frame is damaged if the body panels have gaps between them or if they dent easily when you press them; the bumpers might also be uneven or coming loose from the vehicle.

3. Cooler Hose Issues

The cooler hose carries transmission fluid to the transmission system. A damaged hose jeopardizes the transmission and your control over the vehicle. Signs of hose damage include red, brown, or black stains under the vehicle, a whining noise when the car is in gear, and an overheated transmission. 

After an accident, schedule timely collision repair to address the problems above. Heinrich Collision has been serving the Hilton and Spencerport, NY, area since 1957. They offer a variety of auto services, including car repair and maintenance, as well as 24/7 towing. Call (585) 392-7800, or visit them online to make an appointment.