Category: Auto Body Repair

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!

Has your vehicle been in an accident and received bumper damage? The bumper is often the first part affected in a front or rear-end collision. While bumpers used to be made of metal, modern vehicles primarily use plastic bumpers designed to absorb impact. While plastic may seem easier to work with than metal, repairing a damaged plastic bumper can actually be more challenging in many cases. Understanding why plastic bumpers are difficult to repair can help you make informed decisions about fixing your vehicle after an accident.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Plastic bumpers are harder to repair than metal due to their flexibility, tendency to crack, and need for special adhesives and fillers.
• Paint matching on plastic is challenging since it requires special primers and reflects light differently than metal.
• Bumper damage may hide internal issues, affecting sensors, brackets, and impact absorbers.
• Some plastics can’t be repaired, with thermoset plastics requiring full replacement.
• Bumper repair versus replacement depends on damage, with minor scuffs repairable but deep cracks or structural issues needing a new bumper.

 

The Challenges of Repairing Plastic Bumpers

Plastic bumpers are not the same as metal bumpers. Though they are lighter and capable of absorbing force from an impact, they do tend to break differently, leading to more replacements than repairs. Here are some reasons why plastic bumpers are harder to repair than metal:

 

1. Flexibility and Memory Effect

While bumpers used to be made of metal, modern vehicles primarily use plastic bumpers designed to absorb impact. While plastic may seem easier to work with than metal, repairing a damaged plastic bumper can actually be more challenging in many cases. Understanding why plastic bumpers are difficult to repair can help you make informed decisions about fixing your vehicle after an accident.

 

2. Cracking and Splitting

While metal can be repaired by pulling dents or reshaping the panel, plastic often cracks or splits upon impact. Once a plastic bumper is cracked, the repair process becomes more complex. Unlike metal, which can be welded or reshaped, cracked plastic requires special adhesives, fillers, or plastic welding to restore its structure. Even with advanced repair techniques, cracks can weaken the bumper, making complete replacement necessary in some cases.

 

3. Paint Adhesion and Matching

Another challenge with plastic bumper repair is repainting. Plastic surfaces don’t hold paint the same way as metal, requiring special primers and adhesion promoters to ensure the paint bonds properly. Additionally, since bumpers are often made from different materials than the rest of the vehicle, achieving a seamless color match can be difficult. Metallic and pearl finishes are particularly tricky, as the way light reflects off plastic differs from metal, making any imperfections more noticeable.

 

4. Hidden Internal Damage

Even if the plastic bumper appears to have only minor damage, the impact could have caused hidden internal issues. Modern bumpers often house important components such as sensors, brackets, and impact absorbers. A damaged bumper might not provide the same level of protection in another collision if these components aren’t properly inspected and repaired. Professional technicians use diagnostic tools to assess internal damage, ensuring the vehicle remains structurally sound.

 

5. Limited Repairability of Some Plastics

Not all plastic bumpers are created equal. Some are made from thermoplastics, which can be heated and reshaped, while others use thermoset plastics, which harden permanently and cannot be reformed. If a bumper is made from thermoset plastic, repairs may not be possible, and a full replacement would be necessary. Identifying the type of plastic used in the bumper is a crucial step in determining the best course of action for repairs.

 

Should You Repair or Replace a Plastic Bumper?

Deciding whether to repair or replace a plastic bumper depends on the severity and type of damage. Minor cosmetic issues, such as surface scratches, light scuffs, or small dents, can often be repaired with sanding, filling, and repainting. These types of repairs are typically cost-effective and help restore the bumper’s appearance without requiring a full replacement.

 

However, more significant damage may warrant a new bumper. Deep gouges, large cracks, or punctures compromise the bumper’s structural integrity and may make repairs ineffective. Even if a crack is sealed, the repaired area may not provide the same level of impact absorption in a future collision. Additionally, if the damage has affected underlying components such as mounting brackets, reinforcement bars, or sensors, replacing the bumper ensures that all safety features function properly.

 

If you are having difficulty deciding what to do, consider the kind of plastic used in the bumper. As mentioned earlier, if it is a thermoset plastic, you may need to get a full replacement instead of a repair, as these plastics can’t be effectively repaired.

 

Get Your Bumper Repaired at a South Jersey Collision Repair Shop

Whether you have a plastic or metal bumper on your vehicle, if it is damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced. It is important to get high-quality collision repairs, ensuring that your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition. At Elmer’s Auto Body, our technicians used proven repair techniques and precision color matching to provide seamless results. Don’t let a damaged bumper compromise your vehicle’s safety or appearance. Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to schedule an inspection at one of our three South Jersey locations.

After a collision, you may notice that there are gaps between the car panels, including the hood, doors, and trunk. The misaligned gaps may seem like a cosmetic issue after an accident, but there is more to it than that. Gaps often indicate underlying structural damage that can impact the safety and performance of your vehicle. Let’s discuss why panel gaps occur and what they mean can help you make informed decisions about repairs.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Misaligned panel gaps after an accident often indicate underlying structural damage, such as a bent frame, shifted mounting points, or suspension issues, all of which can affect vehicle safety and performance.
• A vehicle’s frame is designed to absorb impact, but even minor collisions can cause shifts that lead to misalignment, making professional frame straightening essential for restoring structural integrity.
• Poor repairs, including improper fitment of aftermarket parts or incorrect panel alignment, can result in noticeable gaps that affect both the car’s aesthetics and functionality.
• Ignoring misaligned panels can lead to issues like water leaks, rust, wind noise, and decreased resale value, making timely repairs crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s condition.

 

Causes of Misaligned Panel Gaps on Cars After an Accident

Here are reasons why gaps misalign after an accident:

 

1. Frame Damage

The frame is the foundation of your vehicle’s structure, designed to absorb and distribute impact forces during a collision. Modern vehicles typically have a unibody construction, where the frame and body are integrated for added strength and efficiency. However, even a minor accident can shift, bend, or twist the frame, leading to misaligned panels.

 

A bent frame may not only affect the way body panels fit together but can also cause problems with steering, suspension, and overall handling. If left unrepaired, frame misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, difficulty closing doors, and poor crash safety in future accidents. Professional frame straightening using computerized measuring systems is essential to restore the vehicle’s structural integrity.

 

2. Shifted or Damaged Mounting Points

Each body panel on your car is securely attached to mounting points, which keep the structure aligned. These mounting points are designed to hold the panels in place while allowing for slight flexibility in the event of an impact. During a collision, the panels can shift or deform, preventing the panels from sitting flush against the frame. Damaged mounting points can also cause long-term issues, as they may compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle. Proper repairs involve either realigning these mounting points with specialized tools or, in severe cases, replacing them entirely to ensure a proper fit.

 

3. Improper Repairs or Poor Fitment

If your vehicle has been previously repaired, misaligned panel gaps may be the result of improper repairs or poor-quality replacement parts. Aftermarket parts, while often more affordable, may not always have the precise fitment of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Even slight variations in size, shape, or material can lead to visible panel gaps.

 

Additionally, if a repair shop fails to properly measure, align, or secure the panels during reinstallation, gaps and uneven seams may appear. Professional body shops use precise measuring equipment and manufacturer specifications to ensure all components align properly, preserving the vehicle’s original fit and finish.

 

4. Suspension or Alignment Issues

A hard impact doesn’t just affect the body panels—it can also throw off your car’s suspension and wheel alignment. The suspension system plays a critical role in maintaining the car’s structural balance, ensuring that panels, doors, and other components remain properly positioned. If an accident shifts the suspension out of alignment, it can cause body panels to sit unevenly, resulting in noticeable gaps.

 

Furthermore, misalignment can lead to further problems such as difficulty steering, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. Left unaddressed, suspension issues can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs and safety concerns. A post-accident alignment check is essential to ensure everything is properly balanced and functioning as intended.

 

Why Panel Misalignment Matters

The panels on your vehicle are for more than aesthetics. Panels need to be repaired. Here are some reasons why:

 

• Safety Concerns: Panel misalignment may indicate underlying frame or structural damage that weakens the vehicle’s ability to absorb impact in future collisions.
• Weather and Water Damage: Gaps in the body panels can allow water, dirt, and debris to enter the vehicle. Over time, moisture exposure can lead to rust, mold, or electrical issues, which can be costly to repair.
• Reduced Resale Value: A car with misaligned panels signals poor repairs or potential structural damage, reducing its resale value. Buyers may hesitate to purchase a vehicle with visible defects, and dealerships may offer lower trade-in values.
• Aesthetic and Functional Issues: Uneven panel gaps make a vehicle look poorly maintained, and they can also lead to operational issues such as difficulty closing doors, trunks, or hoods. In some cases, wind noise and vibrations while driving may also increase.
• Increased Repair Costs Over Time: Ignoring panel misalignment can lead to worsening issues, requiring more extensive repairs down the road.It is best to address the issue early to ensure your vehicle remains safe.

 

Get Your Misaligned Panels Repaired at a South Jersey Collision Repair Shop

If your car’s gaps don’t line up, it’s important to have the vehicle inspected by a professional auto body shop. At Elmer’s Auto Body, our skilled technicians use advanced diagnostic tools and precision repair techniques to restore your vehicle’s structure. Whether it’s frame straightening, panel realignment, or suspension repair, we ensure your car is safe, functional, and visually seamless.

 

If your car has misaligned panels after an accident, don’t ignore the warning signs. Contact Elmer’s Auto Body today to schedule an inspection at one of our three South Jersey locations. Let us restore your vehicle’s integrity and get you back on the road safely.

Dents are a common issue for vehicle owners, but not all dents are the same—or cost the same to fix. While some minor dings can be removed quickly and affordably, others require more extensive repair work. The cost of dent repair depends on several factors, including the dent’s location, size, depth, and whether it has caused additional structural damage. Understanding these factors can help you better anticipate repair costs and make informed decisions about your vehicle’s maintenance.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• The cost of dent repair depends on factors like size, depth, location, paint damage, and the material of the vehicle’s body panels.
• Larger, deeper dents and those near edges or structural components require more labor and advanced techniques, increasing repair costs.
• Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is a cost-effective solution for minor dents, while traditional body repair is necessary for more severe damage that affects the paint or structure.
• Ignoring dents can lead to rust, reduced resale value, and potential safety concerns if underlying structural components are compromised.

 

Factors That Influence Dent Repair Costs

Here are some factors that will influence how much it costs to repair a dent in South Jersey.

 

1. Size and Depth of the Dent

Larger and deeper dents typically cost more to repair because they require more labor and specialized techniques. Small dings from hail, shopping carts, or minor door impacts can often be fixed with paintless dent repair (PDR), a quicker and more affordable process. However, deeper dents that reach the metal beneath the paint may require body filler, sanding, and repainting.

 

If the dent is severe enough to affect the underlying structure, it may require extensive repair work, including panel replacement or reinforcement. The deeper and wider the dent, the more effort is needed to restore the panel to its original shape, leading to higher costs.

 

2. Location of the Dent

Is your dent on the hood or on a corner? Depending on the location, you may be paying more for the repair. Dents on flat, accessible areas, like the middle of a door or hood, are usually easier and less expensive to fix. However, if the dent is near a body line, corner, or edge, it becomes more complicated to repair because these areas are more rigid and difficult to reshape.

 

Additionally, dents located on structural components such as the roof pillars or fender supports may require more than just cosmetic repair. If the integrity of these structural parts is compromised, advanced techniques and reinforcements are needed, increasing both the time and cost of the repair.

 

3. Type of Repair Method Needed

There are two methods for repairing dents on vehicles: Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) and traditional body repair. PDR is slightly less expensive than traditional dent repair. The technique is used for minor dents that haven’t cracked the paint. Technicians use specialized tools to massage the dent out from behind the panel. Since it doesn’t require sanding, filling, or repainting, it’s a more affordable and quicker option.

 

4. Paint Damage and Additional Repairs

Dents that also damage the paint can significantly increase repair costs. If the impact cracks, chips, or scratches the paint, the affected area must be sanded, primed, repainted, and clear-coated to restore the vehicle’s appearance.

 

Matching the new paint to the existing color requires professional techniques, especially for metallic, pearl, or custom paint jobs. If the damaged area is large, blending may be required across multiple panels, further increasing costs.

 

Additionally, a dent may sometimes cause hidden damage beneath the surface. A strong enough impact can misalign panels, break plastic mounts, or even damage internal safety components such as sensors or reinforcements. A professional inspection is crucial to ensure there are no underlying issues that could compromise your vehicle’s performance or safety.

 

5. Material of the Vehicle’s Body Panels

The type of material used for your car’s body panels also impacts dent repair costs. Different materials respond differently to impact and repair methods:

• Steel Panels: Common in older vehicles, steel is easier to reshape but may require more effort to remove deep dents.
• Aluminum Panels: Found in many modern cars, aluminum is lightweight but more challenging to repair since it doesn’t “bounce back” like steel. Specialized tools and techniques are required, which can make aluminum dent repair more expensive.
• Carbon Fiber or Composite Panels: Some high-end and sports vehicles use carbon fiber or composite materials, which don’t dent in the traditional sense. Instead, they crack or break upon impact, often requiring full panel replacement rather than simple dent removal.

 

The Importance of Getting Dents Repaired

You want to get your vehicle repaired whenever there is damage done. Why? It goes beyond the aesthetics. Ignoring a dent or several can lead to bigger problems down the road. It is important to get dent repair done as soon as you can. Not only are your preventing further damage, but you are also maintaining the resale value. A well-maintained exterior improves your vehicle’s resale value. Visible dents and imperfections can decrease the car’s market price.

 

Obviously, you also want a safe vehicle for you and your family. Repairing even minor dents ensures the car’s panels are in tip-top shape. Lastly, dents that expose the metal beneath the paint can lead to rust. Once rust sets in, it can spread and cause more extensive damage that requires costly repairs.

 

Looking for Dent Repair? Head to a South Jersey Auto Body Repair Shop

Dents are a nuisance. Not only do they detract from the beauty of your vehicle, but they can also cause worse damages over time. If your car has dents and dings, whether from an accident, hail, or minor impacts, Elmer’s Auto Body provides the repair services you need to restore your vehicle. Our experienced technicians use advanced repair techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done right. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our three conveniently located South Jersey collision repair shops.