Essential Indications Demanding a Comprehensive Damage Assessment Following a Mishap
In the aftermath of a car accident, Montana drivers are being reminded to stay vigilant for potential hidden damages that could pose risks to their safety and wallets. Modern vehicles, with their intricate systems, often conceal damage that isn't immediately apparent, making professional inspections crucial.
One of the most noticeable signs of hidden damage is leaks or smells of oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or brake fluid. These puddles or drips can indicate internal damage that, if left unaddressed, could lead to engine overheating, brake failure, or steering problems. Unusual noises, such as clicks, clunks, creaks, and rattles, could be a sign of loose or damaged components.
Visible misalignments or poor repairs, such as uneven paint texture or color, gaps between body panels, misaligned trim, or mismatched wheels, are often signs the vehicle was in a crash and poorly repaired. These issues can lead to further mechanical problems.
Dashboard warning lights appearing after a collision often indicate damage to sensors or systems used by Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). If a car starts drifting or pulling to one side when driving straight, it may be due to misaligned wheels. Changes in steering response, vibrations in the steering wheel, or the car pulling to one side are signs that damage may have affected the steering or suspension systems.
If one tire is wearing out faster than the others after a crash, it could indicate an off-alignment or suspension geometry, which can lead to the need for replacing all tires. A subtle clue of a shift in the frame or mounting points can be seen in gaps that are not even, or panels that do not sit flush around doors, hood, trunk, and fenders.
At OHS Body Shop, they emphasize the importance of a full post-collision inspection. They perform computerized alignment checks and can fix any issues found to ensure the car drives straight, smooth, and safe. They also have the tools to scan a vehicle's system for stored codes and recalibrate sensors so that all ADAS features work exactly as they should.
Given Montana's rough roads and increased chances of minor accidents, it is recommended to have a full post-collision inspection even after "no big deal" bumps. After all, small issues related to a collision can lead to costly or dangerous damage that affects the ride, tires, or safety of the vehicle.
In conclusion, accidents should not lead to a guessing game about the vehicle's safety. OHS Body Shop offers a full inspection to ensure the vehicle is truly safe, sound, and ready for the road, providing peace of mind after any kind of collision. If any of the above warning signs are present, it is recommended to bring a vehicle in for a full post-collision inspection.
- Despite a car accident appearing minor, hidden damages could still pose risks to safety and wallets, making it crucial for Montana drivers to be vigilant.
- In some cases, leaks or smells of automotive fluids like oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or brake fluid might indicate internal vehicle damage.
- If a car has unusual noises such as clicks, clunks, creaks, or rattles, it could signal loose or damaged components.
- Misalignments or poorly repaired bodywork, as shown by uneven paint texture, gaps between body panels, or mismatched wheels, may lead to further mechanical problems.
- After an accident, dashboard warning lights might indicate damage to sensors or systems used by Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
- If a tire wears out faster than the others following a crash, it could signify an off-alignment or suspension geometry requiring tire replacement.
- To ensure the vehicle's safety, it is recommended to bring it in for a full post-collision inspection at a trusted body shop like OHS Body Shop, which can offer computerized alignments, fix issues, and recalibrate sensors to maintain optimal performance and safety.
