Author: VTaylor

Understanding Microfractures: The Invisible Damage That Gets Missed

A technician explains microfractures to a woman driver.

When you get into a car accident, it’s easier to focus on damage that you can see, such as dented panels, cracked bumpers, and shattered glass. Yet, there may also be damage that’s invisible to the naked eye, hidden away in the vehicle’s structure. In many cases, these microfractures can pose a dangerous threat to your safety, since they can’t be seen. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we believe it’s important for drivers to understand what microfractures are, why they matter, and how to ensure they’re not overlooked after a crash.

Let’s talk about microfractures and how to tell if your vehicle may have them.

Key Takeaways

Microfractures are tiny, often invisible cracks in your vehicle’s structure that can occur during a collision, even if the exterior damage seems minimal.
These hidden fractures can weaken your vehicle’s frame, disrupt alignment, increase vibrations, and interfere with safety systems like lane assist or emergency braking.
Many repair shops overlook microfractures because they don’t use advanced diagnostics or fail to fully disassemble and inspect the vehicle after an accident.
Warning signs of microfractures include new rattling noises, uneven tire wear, steering issues, or panels that no longer align properly.

What are Microfractures?

Microfractures are tiny, nearly invisible cracks that form in the structural parts of your vehicle during a collision. They most often appear in the frame or unibody, suspension, engine mounts, weld points, and critical brackets or supports. Even though microfractures are small, it doesn’t take long for them to grow with the vibration and stress of daily commutes. When left untreated, microfractures weaken the structural integrity your vehicle, making it less safe.

In other words, even if you car looks fine after a crash, there may be microfractures throughout the structure. It’s important that you bring your vehicle to an auto body repair shop for an inspection if you notice any of the following microfracture signs:

Sudden rattles, creaks, or new noises
Uneven or rapid tire wear
Steering that feels loose and off-center
Doors or panels that don’t line up the way they should

Why are Microfractures So Easy to Miss During Car Repair?

Compared to cosmetic damages like cracks in the windshield or dented panels or even rust, microfractures aren’t big. You won’t see them during a visual inspection. In fact, many collision repair centers may miss microfractures if they are focusing more on a fast turnaround rather than taking the necessary diagnostic steps (Elmer’s Auto Body would never do this; we’re here for you and your vehicle).

Here are some common reasons microfractures get missed:

Lack of diagnostic equipment
Rushed repair job that focuses on cosmetic damage
No structural alignment check
Failure to fully disassemble the vehicle to check affected areas

Post-collision inspections need to go beyond the surface. Advanced diagnostic tools like laser frame measuring systems can help identify microfractures so they can be repaired.

How Do Microfractures Affect Your Vehicle?

If left unaddressed after an accident, microfractures can turn into a serious issues. These nearly invisible cracks can gradually worsen with everyday driving, road vibration, and exposure to weather. Over time, microfractures can impact multiple systems in your vehicle:

Weakened Frame Structure

The structural integrity of your vehicle is what protects you during a collision. Microfractures in the frame or unibody can compromise that strength, reducing your car’s ability to absorb impact and protect passengers. Even a small crack in a critical weld point or support beam can lead to serious failure in another crash.

Worsening Alignment Problems

Microfractures near suspension components, control arms, or subframe areas can slowly throw off alignment angles. That leads to steering that feels off, difficulty keeping the car straight on the highway, or constant corrections while driving. You may also notice uneven tire wear, which can become costly and unsafe if not corrected.

Increased Vibration and Noise

As microfractured parts begin to shift under pressure, you might hear creaks, rattles, or popping noises—especially when turning or going over bumps. These subtle signs often indicate that certain parts are no longer properly secured or aligned, which can also result in a rougher, more uncomfortable ride.

Compromised Safety Systems

Many advanced safety features rely on precisely mounted sensors and properly calibrated components. Microfractures near these mounts can cause ADAS systems (like lane keep assist or emergency braking) to misfire or stop working entirely. In some cases, the systems may shut off without warning, leaving you less protected on the road.

How Does Elmer’s Auto Body Find and Fix Microfractures?

We take structural integrity very seriously at Elmer’s Auto Body. Every vehicle that comes to us for collision repair is carefully inspected. Yes, that means for microfractures as well as visible damage. We used computerized frame measurement systems to accurately diagnose issues, even those that can’t be see by the naked eye. Our certified auto repair technicians also take the time to fully disassemble the affected areas to see what lays beneath. We use OEM parts and manufacturer recommended repair procedures.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, our goal is to restore your vehicle’s safety and drivability as if the accident never happened.

Schedule for Auto Body Repair at Elmer’s Auto Body

Whether you were just in an accident or had repairs done elsewhere and something still feels wrong, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. We’ll perform a thorough diagnostic and let you know if microfractures or other hidden damage were missed.

You deserve peace of mind knowing your vehicle is safe and structurally sound. Let us make sure no detail is overlooked.

Call or visit one of our South Jersey locations in Medford, Sewell, or Mt. Ephraim to schedule your appointment. You can also reach us by filling out the contact form.

Why Does My Car Still Feel Off After a “Complete” Repair?

A woman wonders why her car feels off after collision repair.

After a car accident, you want to get your vehicle repaired as soon as possible. You also hope that once the work is done, it’s done. Your vehicle will look, drive, and feel like it did before the crash. But what if your car still feels off after a complete repair? What does that mean? At Elmer’s Auto Body, our team hears this concern from time to time, especially from customers who had repairs done elsewhere. If your car doesn’t feel quite right after an accident repair, there’s usually a reason—and you have every right to get it checked out.

Here’s why your car might still feel off after repairs and what you can do about it.

Key Takeaways

Hidden structural damage can go undetected if a shop skips thorough inspections; even a small misalignment in the frame or unibody can affect handling and safety.
Improper suspension or alignment correction can cause vibrations, uneven tire wear, and steering issues that make the car feel unstable after repair.
Non-OEM or low-quality parts may not fit or perform the same as original components, leading to strange noises, panel misfits, or compromised safety.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) must be recalibrated after a crash; skipped calibrations can result in malfunctioning safety features and dashboard warnings.
Poor workmanship or rushed repairs often result in incomplete fixes, cosmetic flaws, and mechanical issues that leave your vehicle feeling “off”—a second opinion can uncover what was missed.

1. Hidden Structural Damage Was Missed

Even in a minor collision, your vehicle’s frame or unibody can suffer damage that’s not obvious to the naked eye. Unfortunately, some repair shops focus only on surface-level fixes—like replacing panels or painting—without performing a thorough structural inspection. If critical components like the subframe, cross members, or weld points were bent or weakened, your car might not handle the way it should, even if it looks fine on the outside.

Signs of unresolved structural damage include:

Uneven gaps around doors, hood, or trunk
Strange creaking or popping noises when driving over bumps or turning
Vehicle doesn’t track straight or pulls to one side
Difficulty with steering or uneven tire wear

If you suspect that structural damage is the cause, get it repaired as soon as you can. Structural damage is a safety risk, as a car’s frame is made to absorb crash energy. Without that, your car won’t be able to properly protect you in another accident.

2. Suspension or Alignment Wasn’t Properly Corrected

Both minor and major crashes can throw off alignment. Fender benders can, for example, alter tie rods, struts, control arms, and alignment angles. If any of these components are overlooked or not calibrated correctly during the repair process, your vehicle might feel off when you drive it again.

Here are some warning signs of misalignment:

Steering wheel feels off-center, even when driving straight
The car vibrates at higher speeds
Tires wear unevenly or more quickly than usual
Your vehicle drifts to one side

3. Non-OEM or Low-Quality Replacement Parts Were Used

When it comes to collision repairs, not all parts are created equal. Some shops—especially when working under tight insurance budgets—will install aftermarket or salvaged parts instead of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. While these alternatives may fit your vehicle, they can result in poor alignment, odd noises, and inconsistent performance.

Common issues with non-OEM parts:

Slight differences in size or shape that cause panels to fit poorly
Lower-quality materials that wear out faster
Parts that don’t meet factory standards for safety or durability

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we use OEM parts only, ensuring that everything from bumpers to brackets matches your car’s original design. This maintains your vehicle’s performance, safety, and resale value. If your car doesn’t feel the same after repairs, the parts used could be the reason.

4. Safety System Calibration Was Skipped

Modern vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, or ADAS, which need to be calibrated after an accident to function properly. ADAS includes things like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Some red flags of improper or missed ADAS calibration include sensors acting erratically or not turning on at all; delays or failures in safety features, such as braking, acceleration, or steering; and a warning light that remains on even after repairs.

5. Poor Workmanship or Missed Steps

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with parts or systems—it’s with the quality of the repair work itself. A rushed job or a lack of training can lead to frustrating issues that you notice as soon as you get back behind the wheel.

Common signs of poor workmanship include incomplete disassembly that doesn’t uncover hidden damage, mismatched lines and uneven surfaces, paint overspray, and noises, like rattling, caused by loose panels.

You deserve only the best level of service and repair. If your vehicle doesn’t feel like it did before the accident, then you may be the victim of prioritized speed rather than quality. Let Elmer’s Auto Body do the repairs, and you will have every repair done right the first time.

What Should You Do If Your Car Still Feels Off After a Complete Repair?

If something doesn’t feel right after you get your car repaired after an accident, don’t ignore it. Consider the signs. Pulling, vibrating, and noises aren’t something that will go away, and it may even mean that the repairs weren’t done correctly or completely.

Here is what you should do if your car still feels off:

Get a second opinion. Bring your vehicle to a trusted body shop like Elmer’s Auto Body for a post-repair inspection.
Request a full diagnostic. We’ll check the structural alignment, suspension, calibration, and part quality.
Ask for documentation. A reputable shop will show you what was done—and what was missed.
Contact your insurance. If the initial repair was done through insurance, and it wasn’t completed properly, you may be entitled to a correction at no cost to you.

Get Quality Repairs from Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey

You car should feel the same as it was before the accident when you get it repaired. Any difference means that something is still wrong. At Elmer’s Auto Body in South Jersey, we take the time to ensure the job is done correctly the first time around. That means using OEM parts, precise measurements, and ensuring every safety system is functioning properly. If you car still feels off after a complete repair, let Elmer’s Auto Body take a look. You deserve peace of mind every time you drive.

We proudly serve South Jersey from three locations: Medford, Sewell, and Mt. Ephraim. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our locations by calling or filling out the online form.

What Happens When Insurance Refuses OEM Parts? Know Your Rights

When insurance refuses OEM parts, you can fight back.

After an accident, things tend to get confusing and frustrating. Not only are you dealing with the inconvenience of a damaged vehicle, you may also have injuries and other personal matters to tackle. Insurance companies also tend to have their preferences—and those may not always align with what you want. For instance, what if you want Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts for your repairs, but your insurance says no? Can your insurance really refuse that request? As an insurance policyholder in New Jersey, you have certain rights. Knowing those rights will make all the difference in where you take your vehicle for auto repair and what kind of parts you receive.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we want to help New Jersey drivers like you get back on the road safely, which is why we also ensure you know your legal auto repair rights.

Key Takeaways

If your insurance company refuses OEM parts, your repair estimate may include aftermarket or recycled parts, which can impact quality, fit, and long-term performance.
In New Jersey, you have the right to request OEM parts, but if your vehicle is over two years old with more than 30,000 miles, you may have to pay the cost difference yourself.
Auto body shops like Elmer’s Auto Body can advocate for OEM parts on your behalf when safety, fit, or vehicle systems are at risk, and may help get insurer approval with proper documentation.
You can formally dispute your insurance company’s decision through New Jersey’s Department of Banking and Insurance if you believe aftermarket parts compromise your vehicle’s safety or value.
Disagreements over parts can delay repairs, so it’s important to review your policy, talk to your repair shop early, and understand your rights under New Jersey law.

What Happens When Insurance Refuses OEM Parts?

After an accident, you expect your vehicle to be repaired using the same quality parts that it originally had. But if your insurance company says no to those OEM parts, what can you do?

1. Check Your Repair Estimate

When your insurance company refuses OEM parts, the repair estimate they approve will likely include aftermarket or recycled (salvage) parts. These are typically less expensive for the insurer but may not offer the same quality, durability, or exact fit as factory parts.

Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers and can vary in material, dimensions, and performance. Recycled parts, on the other hand, come from other vehicles and may have wear and tear depending on their age and condition. While your repair shop doesn’t have to use these parts, the insurance payout is based on what they approved. So if OEM parts are used instead, you could be responsible for the cost difference.

2. You Can Legally Request OEM Parts—But May Pay The Difference

You don’t have to accept the use of aftermarket parts for your vehicle repair. However, in New Jersey, there is no legal requirement for OEM use either. In other words, NJ insurance companies can opt to use aftermarket or salvage parts for auto body repair if the vehicle is over two years old and has more than 30,000 miles.

Now, as mentioned previously, while you have the right to request the use of OEM parts, you may have to pay the price difference out-of-pocket. For instance, if the insurance company covers a $200 aftermarket fender and the OEM version costs $400, you would be responsible for the $200 gap. While it’s an added expense, many vehicle owners feel the added quality and long-term reliability are worth it.

3. The Auto Body Repair Shop May Push Back on Your Behalf

Not all situations are final. If your body shop believes the OEM part is necessary for a safe, proper repair, they may be able to advocate for it. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we frequently review insurance estimates and push back when we believe alternative parts could compromise vehicle structure, fitment, or safety. Furthermore, we only use OEM parts for auto body repair.

Shops can provide documentation to the insurer explaining why an OEM part is justified—especially for structural components, ADAS-related sensors, or vehicles still under manufacturer warranty. In many cases, insurance companies will revise their estimate when provided with clear evidence and reasoning.

4. Dispute the Insurance Decision

If the insurance company continues to refuse to cover OEM parts for accident repair, you can file a formal complaint or appeal the decision. In New Jersey, the Department of Banking and Insurance allows consumers to challenge claim decisions when they believe repair quality or vehicle value is at risk.

To support your dispute, you’ll want to collect written estimates, photos, and a repair shop statement that outlines why OEM parts are necessary. Documentation showing that aftermarket parts don’t meet safety or performance standards can strengthen your case.

5. Repairs May Be Delayed

Keep in mind that any disagreement in parts may cause a delay in the repairs. Most repair shops wait for final insurance approval or confirmation on who is paying for what before beginning work. This avoids billing confusion and ensures you’re not surprised by unexpected out-of-pocket costs once the job is complete.

To minimize delays, talk with your repair shop early about your preferences and check your insurance policy for any OEM-specific clauses. Knowing what’s covered—and what’s not—can help avoid frustrating delays and get your vehicle back on the road faster.

What are Your Legal Rights for Auto Repair in New Jersey?

When it comes to car repair after an accident, you have rights, including:

The right to choose your repair shop, no matter what insurance recommends. Many insurance companies urge customers to use a “direct-repair facility” or DRP. These facilities have contractual agreements with insurance companies and will perform repairs quickly and within a specified budget, though this isn’t always the best for you.
The right to receive written notice on which parts are being used for repairs. If you aren’t being given OEM parts, the insurance company or repair center must tell you that.
You also have the right to request OEM parts, even if the parts aren’t covered by your policy.
You can challenge insurance decisions that may compromise the quality and safety of your vehicle.

Get OEM Parts for Your Vehicle at Elmer’s Auto Body

When your insurance company refuses OEM parts, you’re not out of options. Rather, you just need to know what steps to take. Whether it’s paying the difference, disputing the claim, or asking your repair shop to push for better parts, you have choices.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we use only OEM parts. Our team works with South Jersey drivers at our three locations—Medford, Mt. Ephraim, and Sewell—to get you the parts you need, even when your insurance company refuses to provide for OEM parts. If needed, we’ll advocate for OEM parts with your insurance company and provide documentation that supports their use.

If you’ve been in an accident and need a top-rated auto body repair shop in South Jersey or guidance on parts, coverage, or claims, give us a call or fill out the contact form. Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey is here to help!

How to Challenge a Low Insurance Payout After an Accident

Two men looking at low insurance payout documents. A wrecked car is behind them.

After a car accident, you want to know that your insurance company has your back and will cover the costs of damages and injuries. But what happens when the settlement offer comes in and it’s much lower than you expected? This situation is more common than many drivers realize. Fortunately, a low offer isn’t the end of the road. You have the right to challenge it. In fact, many legal advisers will tell you to challenge a low insurance payout.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’ve worked with many South Jersey drivers like you for decades. We understand how stressful it can be to deal with insurance companies. Here’s what you should know if you receive a low insurance payout offer after a crash.

Key Takeaways

Insurance companies often make low initial settlement offers to quickly close claims and minimize payouts, but you don’t have to accept the first number they give you.
You have the right to challenge a low offer by gathering evidence, getting a professional repair estimate, and submitting a formal demand letter with documentation of your losses.
A good settlement should fully cover vehicle repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, and possibly diminished value or pain and suffering, depending on the situation.
If the insurer won’t budge, you can escalate the matter by filing a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance or speaking with a lawyer—especially if significant damages or injuries are involved.

Why is the First Insurance Settlement So Low?

Getting a low settlement may feel like a joke. However, insurance companies will make a quick initial offer after an accident that is lower than what your claim is actually worth. The goal is to close your claim swiftly, reducing what the company has to pay out.

Many drivers feel pressure to accept upon receiving the first check, particularly when without a car or dealing with medical bills. Keep in mind that once you accept, no matter how low the settlement, you give up the right to ask for anything else. Know your options before signing, and know that you can—and should—fight for a better settlement.

What Can You Do If the Insurance Payout is Too Low?

There are several steps you can take to ensure that you get a better settlement if the first insurance payout is too low. Here’s what to do:

1. Don’t Accept the First Offer

You may be tempted to sign the first check. Instead, take your time to review the full details of the settlement. Compare it to your actual costs—including vehicle damage, medical bills, lost wages, and any other expenses. If the number doesn’t add up, don’t be afraid to say no.

Rejecting the first offer won’t cancel your claim. It usually leads to further negotiations, where you can present your side of the story and push for a fairer amount.

2. Get a Detailed Estimate from an Auto Body Repair Shop

If your vehicle was damaged in an accident, have an auto body repair shop draft a comprehensive estimate. At Elmer’s Auto Body, our team will assess all visible and hidden damages and create a written estimate that reflects the true cost of repair. Share the estimate with your insurer, as it gives you solid evidence to support a higher payout.

3. Write a Demand Letter

Writing a demand letter is another key step. This formal approach shows the insurance company that you’ve done your homework and are serious about a fair resolution.

Your demand letter should include:

A detailed summary of the accident and damages
A breakdown of your repair costs, medical expenses, and other losses
Supporting documents (repair estimates, photos, bills)
A specific dollar amount you are requesting

4. Organize Your Documents

The more organized you are, the better. Keep copies of:

Your initial claim
Insurance communications
Repair estimates
Medical records (if applicable)
Photographs of the damage

Documentation reinforces your claim should it escalate.

5. Consider Filing a Complaint or Getting Legal Advice

There is a chance that negotiations may stall, especially if your insurer refuses to alter their payout. In the event of such a dispute, you have the legal right to file a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. You also have the option to consult with an attorney—especially if injuries are involved or if the claim amount is substantial.

In most cases, your insurance company will opt to give you a better settlement as soon as you show willingness to challenge the payout.

What is a Good Insurance Payout After an Accident?

Knowing that your insurance payout isn’t low is always reassuring. Typically, a good insurance payout after a vehicle accident is one that fully compensates all losses—nothing more or less. That means that the settlement will cover:

Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Diminished value

In some cases, you may also receive compensation for pain and suffering if the accident resulted in any kind of physical or emotional pain.

There are also more subtle signs of a good settlement, such as the offer matching a professional auto body shop estimate, including hidden or structural damage; no pressure from the insurance company to accept; all categories of loss are covered; and transparency about how the amount was calculated.

Elmer’s Auto Body Can Help You Get Top-Quality Auto Body Repair

How do you challenge a low insurance payout after an accident? By not accepting when you know it’s too low. If the insurance company’s payout won’t cover the real cost of your accident, you have every right to challenge it. With clear documentation, a detailed estimate, and a willingness to stand your ground, you can negotiate a fairer outcome.

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re here to help you through it. If you’ve been in an accident and need trusted repair work—and support through the insurance process—contact us today at our Medford, Mt. Ephraim, or Sewell locations. Our team will get you an estimate and advocate for you as needed.

Can Structural Repairs Affect the Way Your Car Handles on the Road?

A woman tightly grips the steering wheel because structural repairs have affected how the car handles

When you are in an accident, there is always a chance that your vehicle sustains more than cosmetic damage. Often, repairs are a necessary step for drivers in South Jersey, especially when it comes to restoring the integrity and safety of the vehicle. Structural repairs handle those internal issues and work to maintain proper alignment, weight distribution, and overall drivability. However, if not done well, structural repairs can lead to handling issues that make driving unsafe.

Here’s what you need to know about how structural repairs impact vehicle performance and what to watch for after a repair.

Key Takeaways

Structural repairs restore a vehicle’s frame, unibody, and key components to ensure proper alignment, weight distribution, and handling.
Common repairs include frame straightening, unibody reinforcement, suspension mount repairs, crumple zone restoration, and wheel alignment.
Poor repairs can cause misalignment, unstable suspension, uneven weight distribution, and reduced crash protection, affecting drivability.
Signs of improper repairs include pulling, unresponsive steering, uneven tire wear, instability, and unusual noises—warranting further inspection.

What are Common Structural Repairs?

Structural repairs focus on restoring a vehicle’s frame, unibody, and key support components after a collision. The most common structural repairs include:

Frame Straightening: Technicians use computerized measuring systems and hydraulic tools to restore the frame to its original shape, ensuring proper alignment and handling.
Unibody Repairs: Unibody refers to the frame and body being integrated. Damage to key areas like the pillars, rockers, or crumple zones requires specialized welding and reinforcement to restore strength and safety.
Component Replacement: Front and rear subframes, crossmembers, rocker panels, and A/B/C pillars may all need to be repaired or replaced after sustaining damage.
Suspension Mount Repairs: Repairs involve reinforcing or replacing damaged mounts to ensure stability and proper suspension function.
Floor Pan and Firewall Repairs: Severe damage to these areas can affect safety and require cutting and welding new sections into place.
Crumple Zone Restoration: Crumple zones are designed to absorb impact in a collision. If damaged, they must be reshaped or replaced to maintain crash protection.
Wheel Alignment: After structural repairs, precise wheel alignment is necessary to ensure the car drives straight and doesn’t pull to one side. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) may also need recalibration to function correctly.
Structural Bonding and Riveting: For vehicles with aluminum or mixed-material frames, traditional welding isn’t always used. Instead, technicians may apply adhesives, rivets, and bonding techniques to repair structural components.

How Does Structural Damage Affect Handling?

The structure of your vehicle is designed to absorb impact, protect passengers, and maintain stability while driving. When a collision damages key structural components—such as the frame, unibody, or suspension mounting points—it can alter the way your car drives. Here’s how structural damage can impact handling:

Misalignment Issues: A damaged frame can cause misalignment, leading to uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, and difficulty steering.
Compromised Suspension Performance: If the impact affects suspension mounting points, it can change the way your vehicle absorbs road imperfections, resulting in a rough or unstable ride.
Altered Weight Distribution: Structural repairs that do not restore the original weight balance can make the car feel off-center or harder to control, especially in turns.
Reduced Crash Protection: If the crumple zones or reinforcements are not properly repaired, the vehicle may not provide the same level of safety in future collisions.

Can Structural Repairs from a South Jersey Collision Repair Center Return Handling to Normal?

Yes, structural repairs can and should return a vehicle to its pre-accident condition or factory specifications. When performed correctly and by professionals, structural repairs ensure that a vehicle handles as it did before the accident. Advanced repair techniques, such as frame straightening and computerized alignment, are used to correct any misalignment or structural shifts. A professional collision repair shop will ensure that:

The frame or unibody is realigned with precise measurements.
The suspension system is inspected and adjusted for proper function.
The vehicle undergoes wheel alignment to correct any steering or stability issues.
Any damaged components that may affect handling, such as control arms or subframes, are repaired or replaced as needed.

Signs That Structural Repairs Were Not Done Correctly

After your car has been repaired, it is important to monitor how it performs. When leaving the repair center, ask yourself if it feels the same. If you notice any handling issues, the repairs may not have fully restored your vehicle’s handling. Here are some signs that the structural repairs may need to be revisited:

Pulling to One Side: If your car drifts or pulls when driving straight, the alignment or frame may still be off.
Steering Feels Off: A loose or unresponsive steering wheel could indicate unresolved structural issues.
Uneven Tire Wear: If your tires wear out faster on one side, it may signal improper weight distribution or misalignment.
Unstable Ride: If your car feels bumpy or wobbly, the suspension or frame may not have been fully repaired.
Strange Noises: Creaking, clunking, or rattling sounds while driving could be a sign that something is still out of place.

Get Professional Structural Repairs at a South Jersey Auto Body Repair Shop

If your vehicle has sustained structural damage, choosing a trusted collision repair shop is essential to restoring its performance and safety. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we handle structural repairs for a variety of makes and models. Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment to realign frames, adjust suspensions, and verify that all repairs are done to factory specifications.

If you suspect lingering handling issues after a repair, don’t wait—bring your car to one of our South Jersey locations for a professional inspection. Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to schedule an appointment!

What’s the Difference Between a Bent Axle and a Damaged Suspension After a Crash?

A woman stares at her damaged car, wondering if she has a bent axle or suspension

After an accident, you may find that your vehicle isn’t driving as smoothly as it did before. If you notice unusual vibrations, poor handling, or strange noises, you may have a bent axle or suspension damage. While both issues affect how your car drives, they are different in terms of function, symptoms, and repair needs. It is important to understand the differences so you can discuss your options with a South Jersey collision repair center like Elmer’s Auto Body.

Key Takeaways

A bent axle affects power transfer and wheel rotation, while a damaged suspension impacts ride comfort and stability.
Signs of a bent axle include vibrations, wobbly wheels, clicking or clunking noises, and difficulty steering.
Suspension damage often causes uneven tire wear, a rough ride, pulling to one side, and squeaking noises.
If your car shakes and makes noises during acceleration, a bent axle is likely the issue, whereas poor handling and tire wear point to suspension problems.
Both issues can compromise vehicle safety and performance, making a professional inspection and repair essential.

What Does the Axle Do?

The axle is a key structural component that transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing them to rotate. It also supports the vehicle’s weight. If the axle is bent or damaged, it can cause severe drivability issues, making it unsafe to operate the vehicle.

What is the Suspension System?

The suspension system consists of multiple components, including shocks, struts, control arms, and springs, designed to absorb road impact and maintain stability. Damage to the suspension can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a rough ride.

How to Tell If You Have a Bent Axle

A bent axle typically results from a strong impact, such as hitting a pothole, curb, or another vehicle during a collision. That said, a bent axle is not immediately visible, and you may not realize you have one. Here are some common signs that your axle may be bent:

Vibrations and Shaking

A damaged axle can cause noticeable vibrations throughout the vehicle, especially as you increase speed. These vibrations often intensify the faster you go and can make your drive feel unstable or unsafe. Unlike alignment issues, which cause mild pulling, axle-related vibrations can be more aggressive and felt in the steering wheel, floor, or even the seats.

Uneven or Wobbly Wheels

If an axle is bent, the wheels may not rotate properly, leading to a wobbly sensation while driving. You might also notice that one wheel sits at an odd angle, even when the car is parked. This instability can make handling more difficult and, over time, cause additional strain on suspension components and tires.

Clicking or Clunking Noises

If you hear a clicking, popping, or clunking noise when accelerating, decelerating, or making turns, it could be a sign of axle damage. The noise occurs when the axle can no longer rotate smoothly, causing stress on the joints and bearings. This issue is especially noticeable when making sharp turns or driving at low speeds.

Difficulty Steering

A misaligned or bent axle can affect how your car responds to steering. If turning feels sluggish or unpredictable, or if the steering wheel feels loose or unresponsive, the axle may not be properly distributing power to the wheels. This can make maneuvering the vehicle more challenging, especially in emergency situations.

Signs of a Damaged Suspension

Suspension damage can occur for many reasons: direct impact, prolonged wear and tear, or even improper repairs after a crash. The reason you need your suspension in tip-top shape is because it’s responsible for absorbing shock. If any of the components, such as the struts, shocks, control arms, or ball joints, are damaged, there will be changes in how your car performs.

Here are some signs of a damaged suspension:

Uneven Tire Wear

If one or more of your tires show excessive wear on one side while the others appear normal, it could indicate a suspension issue. Worn-out suspension components can throw off your car’s alignment, causing tires to wear unevenly. This can shorten the lifespan of your tires and reduce overall traction, making driving more dangerous, especially in wet or icy conditions.

Bumpy or Rough Ride

If your car feels overly stiff, bouncy, or unstable when driving over bumps, your shocks or struts may be damaged. The suspension system is designed to absorb road imperfections, so if it isn’t functioning properly, you’ll feel every dip and pothole much more intensely. This can make driving uncomfortable and increase wear on other vehicle components.

Pulling to One Side

A damaged suspension system can throw off your car’s alignment, causing it to drift or pull to one side even when you’re driving straight. While a minor alignment issue might not seem like a big deal, over time, it can strain the tires and steering system, leading to bigger (and more expensive) problems.

Squeaking or Creaking Noises

If you hear squeaking, creaking, or groaning noises when going over speed bumps or rough roads, your suspension components may be worn out. These sounds often indicate deteriorating bushings, ball joints, or control arms, which can affect stability and handling.

Bent Axle vs. Suspension Damage: Which One Do You Have?

Both a bent axle and suspension damage can affect how your car drives, but their symptoms differ:

If your vehicle shakes, wobbles, or makes loud noises when accelerating, a bent axle is more likely the issue.
If you experience poor handling, uneven tire wear, or a rough ride, you may have suspension damage.

Both problems will impact the performance and safety of your vehicle, so it is important to have your car inspected and repaired at a professional auto body repair facility.

Get Your Vehicle Repaired at a South Jersey Collision Repair Center

Do you suspect that either the axle or suspension of your vehicle is damaged after an auto collision? Now that you know the signs, you should be able to determine whether your car needs to be repaired. If you car isn’t driving as it once did, it is time to contact a collision repair center in South Jersey like Elmer’s Auto Body. Our experienced technicians will diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs to get you back on the road safely. Contact us today for an inspection!