Frame damage to a vehicle can pose a serious threat to its structure and passenger safety. Since it impacts the alignment of the wheels, it can affect your ability to drive, as well. Different types of damage can occur during an accident that requires frame repairs. Here are three types that your vehicle may sustain if you're involved in a collision.

What Are the Different Types of Car Frame Damage?

1. Mashed Frame

If you’re involved in a head-on collision or your vehicle is rear-ended, the frame may become mashed. When this happens, the structure crumples into itself, becoming shorter. Key signs of this type of damage include hood, rail, and fender deformities. Mashing can lead to a chain reaction that causes other types of frame issues, including sagging, swaying, and twisting. 

2. Twisted Frame

A twisted frame isn't always easy to discern at a glance, but it can cause a car to lean slightly in one direction if it's rear-ended or hit head-on. This occurs because the steel chassis springs are unable to support the same weight as they did before the damage occurred. 

Twisted frames often cause similar issues as sagging frames. However, the latter is easier to identify. Repair technicians will look for gaps in the body, and if they’re present, the vehicle may lean in the direction of those openings. If the problem isn't resolved, it can eventually cause premature coil and tire damage.

3. Sway Frame

When a vehicle is struck in the corner, it could result in sway damage. This causes a car to lean in a specific direction, preventing it from driving in a straight line. Since the change in motion is so obvious, it’s fairly easy for frame repair technicians to identify this type of problem. As a driver, you might also feel the car vibrate as it's traveling. When left unresolved, sway frames could cause the transmission to suffer significant damage.
 

If you’re involved in a collision and require frame repairs, turn to the team at Autoworks Collision Center in Rockford, MN. These auto experts have been proudly serving drivers throughout Wright County and the surrounding areas since 1995. These skilled professionals offer extensive services, including aluminum and auto body repairs, detailing, and dent removal. Visit the website for more information, or call (763) 477-6653 to schedule an appointment.