Your vehicle’s frame is its structural backbone—if it’s compromised in a collision, the entire safety and performance of your car could be at risk. Frame damage isn’t always obvious, especially after a seemingly minor accident. But failing to recognize and repair frame issues can lead to long-term problems, both mechanically and financially. At Armadillo Automotive, we want drivers to stay informed and safe. Here’s how you can tell if your car’s frame may have been damaged after a crash.
What Is Frame Damage and Why It Matters
The frame of a car supports everything from the engine and transmission to the body panels and suspension. It absorbs the force of impacts and is engineered to protect occupants in the event of a collision. When the frame is bent, cracked, or misaligned, the entire structural integrity of the vehicle is compromised.
That’s why frame inspection is one of the most important post-collision steps. If you continue driving with a damaged frame, you’re risking poor vehicle performance, accelerated wear on tires and suspension, and even the chance that your car won’t protect you properly in another accident. That’s where trusted automotive services in New Orleans become essential.
Signs Your Vehicle Frame May Be Damaged
Not all damage is visible to the untrained eye, but here are some red flags you can look for:
1. Visible Bends or Cracks
After a collision, check the underside and sides of your vehicle. If you notice any bends in the metal frame or visible cracks near the fender wells, bumper mounts, or undercarriage, it’s a strong sign that the frame has sustained damage.
2. Uneven Tire Wear
Frame damage often affects the alignment of your vehicle. If you notice that your tires are wearing unevenly or faster on one side, the frame could be bent, which throws off the alignment and balance of the car.
3. Misaligned Panels and Gaps
Do your doors no longer close properly? Is the hood or trunk hard to shut or sitting unevenly? These may be subtle indicators that the frame has shifted. Poor alignment of body panels is a telltale sign that something deeper has been affected.
4. Steering Issues
If your steering wheel feels off-center, pulls to one side, or vibrates more than usual, it could mean the frame has been twisted. This can also put stress on your suspension and steering components.
5. Unusual Noises
Squeaks, creaks, or rattling noises coming from your vehicle, especially after hitting a bump, could suggest that the frame isn’t holding components tightly anymore. These sounds may be easy to overlook but shouldn’t be ignored.
The Importance of Professional Frame Inspection
Even if you don’t notice any of the above signs, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a certified technician after any accident. At Armadillo Automotive, we offer comprehensive collision inspections using advanced diagnostic equipment that can detect hidden structural issues.
Our team provides top-quality automotive services in New Orleans, from frame straightening to full body repairs. We don’t just repair visible damage—we look deeper to ensure your vehicle is safe, stable, and ready to perform as it should.
Can Frame Damage Be Fixed?
In many cases, yes. If caught early, a bent or twisted frame can be realigned using specialized machines. Severe damage may require sections of the frame to be replaced altogether. Either way, these repairs should always be handled by professionals trained in collision repair and automotive frame service.
Ignoring frame issues can result in further mechanical damage and lower your car’s resale value—not to mention putting your safety at risk. Working with a reliable repair shop ensures your car returns to factory specifications.
Don’t Risk It—Let Armadillo Automotive Take a Look
If you’ve recently been in an accident and suspect frame damage, don’t wait. Armadillo Automotive offers trusted, detail-oriented automotive services in New Orleans that go beyond surface-level repairs. Whether you need a full diagnostic check or frame straightening, our experienced team is here to restore your vehicle’s safety and performance.
Call us today or schedule a visit—our team will make sure your car is in the condition it needs to be, inside and out.