Vehicle frames are a crucial component of a safe driving experience. That's why you must schedule collision repair as soon as possible after an accident, as you could have hidden frame damage that you're not aware of. Here's what you should know about damaged frames and how drivers should address them. 

Why Is a Damaged Frame a Serious Issue?

Vehicle frames play a major role in the structural stability of a car or truck. In addition to supporting the total weight of the vehicle, the frame also safeguards the driver and passengers in the event of a crash. When a frame has been compromised by a previous accident, it will not offer the necessary structural support to provide a safe driving experience. Then, in the event of another crash, the risk of injury is much greater. 

What Are the Types of Vehicle Frames?

Most vehicles have unibody frames, which means the body panels and chassis, aka the frame, consist of one piece. In addition to the structural support offered by unibody frames, they also reduce the overall weight of a vehicle. There are also body-on-frame types, which can usually be found in large vehicles, such as buses and trucks. These frames work best for sizable vehicles, as they're capable of supporting more weight. 

How Are Damaged Frames Fixed?

The good news is that a collision repair shop can often fix many types of frame damage. In most cases, this requires bending the frame so that it goes back into the proper position and offers a sufficient level of support. However, a mechanic can also tell that the frame is unable to be effectively repaired, which poses a major safety issue. This highlights why you must seek out repairs if you suspect frame damage or experience issues like wheel misalignment and strange noises when driving. 

When you need collision repair to address a frame issue, the team at Consolidated Bodyshop LLC offers the tools and experience you're looking for. They're equipped to repair all types of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and trucks. In addition to restoring vehicles to their former condition, they also provide auto painting services to improve the look of your ride. They even back their work with lifetime warranties. Visit the website to learn more about their auto repair services. You can also schedule an appointment in Crossville, TN, by calling (931) 456-4090 today.