How to Determine Unibody Frame Damage in Vehicle?

Not all car accidents are the same. Some may cost lives, while others may just result in minor scratches here and there. The thing with the latter accidents is that they don’t necessarily leave highly visible signs of damage. 

And we all know that many used vehicles that are on the market for sale have been into some or other accidents and collisions. With little repair, it is certainly hard to tell vehicles with unibody car frame damage apart. But, thankfully, being vigilant can keep you from making a costly investment. 

Keep reading this article to understand how to determine unibody frame damage in vehicles. But before that, let’s understand –

What is unibody damage?

Almost every modern vehicle is installed with a unibody frame. Such frames have both the chassis and vehicle body joined together as one unit. So, when there is unibody damage, the entire frame of the vehicle gets damaged, too. 

Damaged frames don’t take impact as they should, therefore compromising driver and passenger’s life. 

Signs to determine car frame damage

1- Visible bending or damage 

One of the sure fire signs of frame damage is visible bend and damage on the frame. Walk around the vehicle to look for signs of cracks, creases, or rust in the frame and exteriors. 

Also, check underneath your vehicle for the signs of damage for missing or bent components. 

2- Poor car alignment 

Take the used vehicle you wish to purchase on a drive. If you notice the vehicle pulling in one direction, then that is clearly an alignment issue. 

Even though getting the alignment fixed is enough to fix the issue. But, if the seller or dealership mentions potential alignment fixing and still you notice the issue, then that is your sign of running away from the seller or dealership. 

3- Unusual noise

A bent car frame can make various noises, including creaking, squeaking, and other unusual noises from all sides of the vehicle. These noises typically indicate the possibility of larger yet hidden damage to the vehicle’s frame. 

4- Uneven wear on suspension and shocks

Bent vehicle frame can also result in uneven wear on shocks and suspension alike. In fact, driving a vehicle with frame damage can result in faster wear and tear of suspension and shocks than usual. It is best to stay away from such vehicles to prevent additional costs associated with repairing the same. 

Signing off

Although it is possible to drive a repaired vehicle that once sustained frame damage, you will only compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle. 

So, it is best to stay miles away from such vehicles. Use our article as a guide, so you don’t end up buying a car with structural damage.

Andrew Richardson is the author of this Article. To know more about Car Odometer please visit our website: allenstewart.com