Even relatively minor car accidents can cause serious damage that extends far below the surface. A bent frame can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and even increase the risk of injuries if you’re involved in another collision. Fortunately, experienced body shops with frame straightening expertise can restore the safety and performance of your vehicle. Here is a guide on what you need to know about this repair service.

When Might You Need Frame Straightening?

Any accident could damage your frame, but front-end collisions are most likely to bend or warp the structure supporting the vehicle. Rear-end collisions also often cause the frame to crumple inward, leaving part of your vehicle more compacted than the rest. While frame damage may sometimes be obvious, the signs are often invisible to the untrained eye. Any time you’ve been in a collision, have a professional inspect your vehicle for frame damage.

How Does It Work?

Auto body technicians use specialized equipment to adjust and straighten a bent frame. The vehicle is first lifted off the ground, and then upright posts are positioned around it. Computers use information from lasers directed along the frame to detect which areas need to be adjusted. Technicians then attach chains from the upright posts to the frame, precisely increasing the tension to pull crumpled sections back into place.

Why Is Frame Straightening Important?

A bent frame can force a car to drive slightly sideways, so you might find yourself fighting to make the vehicle drive straight. This impacts fuel efficiency, puts unnecessary wear and tear on the tires, and makes your vehicle more difficult to control.

A damaged frame can also buckle under the force of a subsequent collision, causing substantially more damage and more serious injuries. Frame alignments ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive and able to withstand the impact of another accident.

If you’ve been in a collision and need frame straightening or other repairs, trust Mach 1 Body Shop Inc. in Hinesville, GA. Their technicians have over a century of combined experience restoring vehicles to like-new condition, and they have access to some of the most advanced equipment in the industry, allowing them to tackle even the most serious issues. Visit their website for a full list of their services, or call (912) 876-5500 to speak with a team member.