Category: Collision Repair

The automotive industry has advanced in ways that make cars faster, lighter, and safer than ever before. One of the methods to create better vehicles was to use Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS) and aluminum in the construction. These materials offer superior strength, durability, and weight reduction, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and safety. However, they also require specialized repair techniques when a vehicle is involved in a collision. Today, we are going to discuss the aspects of working with these materials during repairs, as well as the technologies required to ensure your vehicle is returned to its pre-accident condition.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS) and aluminum are used in modern vehicles to improve safety, fuel efficiency, and durability, but they require specialized repair techniques.
• AHSS is stronger and lighter than traditional steel, while aluminum provides corrosion resistance and weight reduction, making both materials essential for modern vehicle construction.
• Repairing AHSS and aluminum presents challenges such as the need for precision welding, controlled heat exposure, specialized equipment, and different repair techniques compared to conventional steel.

 

What to Know About AHSS and Aluminum

For many years, cars were manufactured out of steel—a heavy yet durable material. Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS) is very much like traditional steel, but it is engineered to be lighter and stronger. The durability of AHSS enhances crash resistance. You can find AHSS throughout the structural components of vehicles, including the pillars, frames, and crumple zones.

 

Aluminum is another metal commonly found in modern day vehicles. The metal is significantly lighter than steel while still providing strength and corrosion resistance. Typically, aluminum is used in hoods, fenders, doors, and various structural components. The goal of its inclusion is to improve handling and fuel economy without depleting safety. Unlike steel, aluminum does not have the same elasticity, making it more difficult to repair without proper equipment and training.

 

Challenges of Repairing AHSS and Aluminum

Although AHSS and aluminum are commonly included in vehicle manufacturing, that does not mean they are easy to work with. AHSS and aluminum present challenges in collision repair that require specialized techniques, including:

 

Precision Welding and Bonding

AHSS has a higher tensile strength than conventional steel, meaning traditional welding methods can weaken its structure. Special welding and bonding techniques, such as resistance spot welding or structural adhesives, are required to maintain integrity. These processes ensure that the material retains its original strength and does not suffer from stress fractures or weak joints, which could compromise safety. Additionally, the welding process for AHSS often requires lower heat input and specialized electrode materials to prevent brittleness and maintain durability.

 

Heat Sensitivity

Aluminum and some AHSS grades are highly sensitive to heat. Excessive heat exposure during repairs can compromise their structural integrity, making controlled repair processes essential. For example, aluminum has a lower melting point and higher thermal expansion rate than steel, meaning improper heating can cause warping or weakening of the metal. AHSS, on the other hand, undergoes changes in its microstructure when exposed to high temperatures, which can reduce its strength and effectiveness in absorbing impact. This makes it critical for technicians to use temperature-controlled repair methods, such as induction heating or cold repair techniques, to maintain the integrity of these materials.

 

Specific Equipment

Unlike conventional steel, aluminum requires dedicated tools and workspaces to prevent contamination that can lead to corrosion or weakened repairs. Cross-contamination between aluminum and steel can cause galvanic corrosion, leading to structural deterioration over time. To prevent this, repair shops must have separate aluminum repair stations with isolated tools and work areas. AHSS also necessitates the use of advanced laser measuring and computerized frame straightening for precise alignment. These tools help identify even the slightest frame distortions and ensure the vehicle is restored to factory specifications with minimal margin for error.

 

Different Repair Techniques

While conventional steel can often be pulled and reshaped after a collision, aluminum tends to crack rather than bend, making traditional dent repair methods less effective. This means that rather than using traditional hammer-and-dolly techniques, specialized aluminum dent removal tools and processes, such as heat shrinking or panel replacement, are required. AHSS also has limited formability, meaning that replacement is often necessary instead of reshaping.

 

Once deformed, AHSS does not easily return to its original shape, making it difficult to repair without compromising safety. In many cases, specific structural components of AHSS vehicles must be replaced rather than repaired to maintain crashworthiness and longevity.

 

How Elmer’s Auto Body Handles Advanced Material Repairs

Some collision repair centers in South Jersey are better equipped for AHSS and aluminum repairs than others. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we are equipped to handle the challenges of repairing vehicles made with AHSS and aluminum. Our technicians receive ongoing training in the latest repair techniques and utilize state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate and safe repairs. We use:

 

• Laser measuring systems to assess and restore frame alignment with precision.
• Standardized welding and bonding techniques to maintain the integrity of high-strength materials.
• Dedicated aluminum repair stations to prevent cross-contamination and ensure high-quality results.
• Manufacturer-approved repair methods to ensure that all repairs meet factory specifications for safety and performance.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey for Structural Repairs?

The shift toward Advanced High-Strength Steel and aluminum in modern vehicles has changed the way auto body repairs are performed. For that reason, you need to choose an auto body repair center in South Jersey that has skilled technicians and the correct equipment. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we take pride in our state-of-the-art facilities and highly experienced team. We can handle even the most complex structural issues. If your vehicle has been in an accident, trust our team to provide high-quality, precision repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient South Jersey locations.

Modern vehicles rely on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety and performance. These systems use cameras, radar, and sensors to assist with lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and more. After an accident or collision repair, it’s crucial that these components are properly realigned to ensure they function correctly. But how can you tell if they were recalibrated correctly? Here’s what you need to know.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Proper sensor and camera alignment is crucial for ADAS features like lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring to function correctly after a repair.
• Signs of misalignment include dashboard warning lights, inaccurate lane departure warnings, unexpected braking, faulty blind-spot detection, unresponsive adaptive cruise control, and parking assistance malfunctions.
• Ignoring misalignment can compromise safety, leading to false alerts, missed warnings, and unpredictable vehicle behavior that increases the risk of accidents.
• If you suspect misalignment, check your owner’s manual, test ADAS features in a controlled environment, and schedule an inspection at a certified collision repair center.

 

Why Sensor and Camera Alignment Matters

The sensors and cameras are important—more than you might imagine. Working together, the sensors and cameras keep you safe. If those components are misaligned, even slightly, you may be unable to see obstacles or receive incorrect warnings. You want the ADAS features properly calibrated for the following reasons:

 

• Lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control need to work accurately to prevent unnecessary braking and swerving.
• Blind-spot detection needs to provide correct alerts.
• Parking assistance and collision avoidance systems must function as intended or become a risk.

 

If your car has been in an accident or undergone repairs affecting the bumper, windshield, or suspension, recalibration is necessary to restore these systems.

 

Signs Your Sensors and Cameras Are Misaligned

Misalignment can sometimes occur during a repair, leading to diminished calibration and faulty safety systems. Obviously, this is not how you want to drive. Here are some warning signs that your car’s sensors and cameras were not properly realigned during collision repair:

 

Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Most modern vehicles have built-in diagnostic systems that detect sensor and camera misalignment. If your car’s dashboard displays a warning light or error message related to lane-keeping assistance, collision avoidance, or adaptive cruise control, it’s a clear sign that something is off. These alerts may appear immediately after a repair or develop over time if the misalignment gradually worsens. Ignoring these warnings can put you at risk, as your vehicle may not respond correctly in critical situations.

 

Inaccurate Lane Departure Warnings

Lane departure warning systems rely on cameras to track lane markings on the road. If these cameras are misaligned, you may experience false warnings when you are safely within your lane or no warning at all when you actually drift. This can create a dangerous situation, especially on highways where lane-keeping assistance is crucial. A properly aligned system should consistently detect lane boundaries and provide accurate feedback.

 

Faulty Automatic Braking or Collision Warnings

Forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking depend on radar and sensors to detect vehicles and objects ahead. If these components are misaligned, your car may brake unexpectedly for no reason or fail to activate when a real obstacle is present. Sudden, unnecessary braking can startle drivers behind you and lead to rear-end collisions, while delayed braking can increase your risk of an accident. If your car’s braking behavior seems unpredictable, it’s time for an inspection.

 

Blind-Spot Monitoring Errors

Blind-spot detection helps prevent side-impact collisions by telling you when another vehicle has entered a blind-spot. If the sensors are not properly aligned, you may end up receiving alerts of a vehicle approaching that isn’t there. Faulty blind-spot detection may also fail to pick up when a vehicle is present or have a delayed warning, leading to riskier lane changes.

 

Unresponsive Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control uses radar to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead. If the sensors are misaligned, you might notice:

 

• Inconsistent speed adjustments (the car slows down or speeds up unexpectedly)
• Failure to maintain a proper following distance
• Delayed or overly aggressive braking when approaching another vehicle

 

A properly calibrated system should adjust your speed smoothly and predictably. If your adaptive cruise control feels unreliable, the sensors likely need realignment.

 

Parking Assistance Malfunctions

Modern vehicles are often equipped with cameras and sensors that assist with reversing and parking, particularly in tight spaces. When these systems are misaligned, you may experience erratic beeping when no obstacles are nearby, failure to detect objects, and distorted or incorrect camera views and angles that make parking difficult.

 

What to Do If You Suspect Misalignment

If you notice any of the aforementioned signs, do not wait until something unfortunate happens. Take the necessary steps to ensure your vehicle’s cameras and sensors are appropriately calibrated. Here is what you can do:

 

1. Check your owner’s manual: Some vehicles will require ADAS calibration anytime alignment or the bumper is adjusted.
2. Test your ADAS features in a safe area: Carefully assess if systems like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control respond correctly.
3. Schedule an inspection at a certified collision repair center: Professionals have the specialized equipment needed to diagnose and recalibrate ADAS components.

 

Get Professional ADAS Calibration at a South Jersey Collision Repair Center

After any collision repair, ensuring your vehicle’s sensors and cameras are properly realigned is essential for your safety. If you notice signs that something is wrong, don’t wait. You want to be able to drive safely and surely, after all. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have state-of-the-art equipment for ADAS calibration, as well as experienced technicians who can diagnose and solve your post-collision problems. If you suspect that sensors or cameras are misaligned after the initial repair, bring your car to one of our three South Jersey locations. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

 

Modern vehicles have advanced safety features, many of which you can name without thinking about it, like blind spot detection. These safety features are designed to protect you and other occupants from danger. However, one of the most critical safety components has been around for much longer: the crumple zone. Crumple zones are specifically engineered areas that absorb impact energy during an accident, thereby reducing the force transferred to the passengers. Yes, there is a lot of physics involved. However, when the crumple zones are damaged, they cannot work as effectively. Understanding the importance of crumple zones and how damage affects your car can help you make informed repair decisions.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Crumple zones are essential for vehicle safety, absorbing impact energy to protect passengers in a collision.
• Driving with damaged crumple zones increases risks, including reduced crash protection, structural instability, and compromised airbag deployment.
• Unrepaired crumple zone damage can lead to higher repair costs over time and significantly lower a vehicle’s resale value.
• Crumple zone repairs require specialized equipment, such as laser measuring, frame straightening, and manufacturer-approved replacement parts.

 

What are Crumple Zones and How Do They Work?

Think of a crumple zone, also known as a crush zone, like an accordion. When you compress one side of the accordion, the instrument folds in on itself. Except, unlike an accordion, you don’t get music and you can’t retract the crumple zone once it has been deformed.

 

Typically located at the front and rear of a car, these sections absorb and dissipate crash energy, preventing it from reaching the passenger cabin. By controlling how a vehicle absorbs force, crumple zones help reduce injuries and improve overall crash survivability.

 

These zones are constructed using materials like high-strength steel and energy-absorbing foams to maximize their effectiveness. Engineers carefully design them through crash testing and simulations to ensure optimal performance in real-world scenarios.

What are the Risks of Driving With Damaged Crumple Zones?

You will most likely know when a crumple zone has been damaged, as the panels will be visibly damaged. Driving around with damaged crumple zones doesn’t merely look bad, it also introduces the following risks:

 

Reduced Crash Protection

A compromised crumple zone may not absorb energy effectively in another collision, increasing the risk of severe injuries. The integrity of the entire safety system, including seat belts and airbags, can be negatively affected.

 

Structural Weakness

Damage to the crumple zones can extend to the vehicle’s frame, leading to misalignment and instability. This can affect driving performance, making handling unpredictable and increasing the likelihood of further damage in minor accidents.

 

Increased Repair Costs

If not properly addressed, crumple zone damage can cause hidden issues that may lead to more expensive repairs in the future. Over time, unaddressed structural weaknesses can spread, necessitating full-frame replacements instead of minor repairs.

 

Compromised Airbag Deployment

Many modern vehicles rely on crumple zone deformation to trigger airbags at the right time. If these zones are damaged, airbag sensors may not function properly, resulting in delayed or non-deployment of airbags, significantly increasing the risk of injuries in subsequent crashes.

 

Lower Resale Value

A vehicle with unrepaired crumple zone damage may lose value due to safety concerns and potential structural issues. Prospective buyers and dealerships often conduct inspections that reveal hidden frame damage, reducing the car’s trade-in or resale price significantly.

 

How is Crumple Zone Damage Repaired?

As mentioned previously, crumple zones are designed to absorb the force of an impact and redirect it away from you and other passengers. That means that they are not easily repairable—certainly not a DIY job—and require certain equipment. Here is how crumple zones can be repaired:

 

Laser Measuring

Using laser measuring, the technician can ensure that the structure is aligned according to manufacturer specifications. By scanning the vehicle’s framework, even the slightest misalignment can be detected and corrected.

 

Frame Straightening

Frame straightening equipment can correct structural alignments that would otherwise hamper vehicle performance and safety. Hydraulic frame machines apply controlled pressure to restore the damaged sections to their original position, ensuring stability and safety.

 

Component Replacement

In cases of severe damage, crumple zone sections may need to be replaced rather than repaired. New components, sourced directly from manufacturers, ensure that safety features function as originally intended.

 

Manufacturer-Approved Repair Methods

Collision repair technicians follow factory guidelines to restore crashworthiness. This includes guidelines for welding, bonding, and refinishing to guarantee the vehicle’s long-term reliability.

 

Get Crumple Zones Repaired by a Reputable Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey

If your car has been in an accident, addressing crumple zone damage is essential to maintaining its safety and integrity. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have the team and equipment needed to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. ur experienced technicians undergo continuous training to stay updated with the latest repair techniques and industry advancements.

 

With convenient locations in Sewell, Mt. Ephraim, and Medford, we proudly serve the South Jersey community. We use only the highest quality tools and technology to ensure your vehicle is repaired to the highest standards. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your vehicle is road-ready and safe.

When a vehicle is involved in an accident, even seemingly minor damage can impact its structural integrity. Ensuring that the frame is properly aligned is crucial for safety, performance, and longevity. That’s where laser measuring technology comes into play. This advanced system provides precise measurements to identify frame misalignment and guide technicians in restoring the vehicle to factory specifications. Today, we are going to explain laser measuring technology, so you know exactly what it is and does.

 

Key Takeaways

• Laser measuring technology plays a crucial role in auto collision repair by providing precise digital measurements to detect frame misalignment.
• Laser measuring helps ensure structural integrity, improving safety by restoring the vehicle’s ability to absorb impact during future accidents.
• Such technology also ensures accurate repairs, reducing human error and minimizing repair time, leading to faster turnaround times.

 

What is Laser Measuring Technology?

A laser is a concentrated beam of light. Laser measuring systems use highly accurate sensors and beams to assess a vehicle’s frame and structure. These systems compare the current condition of the frame to manufacturer specifications, detecting even the slightest deviations. Unlike traditional measuring methods, which rely on manual tools, laser systems provide digital readings that eliminate guesswork and improve accuracy.

 

How Does Laser Measuring Work?

Now that you know what laser measuring is, let’s discuss how automotive repair technicians use it to do repairs:

 

1. Initial Assessment

The vehicle is placed on a frame machine, and reference points are established using laser sensors. These sensors create a digital map of the vehicle’s current frame structure.

 

2. Measurement Analysis

The system scans the entire structure, collecting thousands of data points that provide a detailed view of any frame distortions. This data is used to detect even minor deviations that may not be visible to the naked eye.

 

3. Comparison to Factory Specifications

The collected data is matched against manufacturer blueprints to determine the necessary corrections. Advanced software analyzes the measurements and highlights specific areas that require adjustments.

 

4. Frame Realignment

Technicians use specialized hydraulic and computerized frame machines to apply precise amounts of pressure to adjust misaligned sections. This process ensures that the vehicle’s structure is restored to exact factory tolerances.

 

5. Final Verification

A secondary scan confirms that all structural repairs meet industry and safety standards. The final report is reviewed to ensure that the frame is fully restored before reassembling the vehicle.

 

Why Does Laser Measuring Matter in Auto Collision Repair in South Jersey

Aside from providing accuracy during the repair process, laser measuring has other benefits. Here is a look at some of the things laser measuring can do when utilized:

 

1. Structural Integrity

A misaligned frame isn’t just an aesthetic issue—it can directly affect the safety of your vehicle. A poorly aligned frame can compromise your vehicle’s ability to absorb impact during future accidents, putting both you and your passengers at serious risk. Laser measuring ensures the frame is accurately realigned to its original specifications, maintaining the vehicle’s essential safety features and structural integrity.

 

2. Driving Performance

Improper frame alignment can cause issues such as uneven tire wear, poor handling, and suspension problems. Precision measuring ensures the vehicle operates as intended.

 

3. Improves Repair Accuracy

Traditional measurements taken by humans are prone to error. When such errors occur, the mistakes are costly and the repairs subpar. To avoid that, technicians at reliable auto body repair shops have turned to laser measuring, which provides accurate and consistent measurements. This ensures that every repair is performed to the highest standards, leaving you with a vehicle that’s properly restored and fully functional.

 

4. Reduces Repair Time

By pinpointing structural issues quickly and accurately, laser measuring minimizes the time spent on diagnosis and adjustments, leading to faster turnaround times for customers.

 

5. Preserves Vehicle Value

Proper frame alignment helps maintain a vehicle’s resale value by ensuring it meets safety and performance standards. A poorly aligned frame can lead to ongoing mechanical issues that lower the car’s worth.

 

Get Precision Repairs from a South Jersey Collision Repair Center

Laser measuring is a technology that makes all the difference in the repair process. Not only does laser measuring increase accuracy, it also makes restoring your vehicle to pre-accident condition more possible than ever before.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the importance of getting your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition. With convenient locations in Sewell, Mt. Ephraim, and Medford, we proudly serve the South Jersey community, providing reliable and efficient collision repair services.

 

Don’t let a car accident disrupt your life—trust the professionals at Elmer’s Auto Body to restore your vehicle to its optimal condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and see the difference quality craftsmanship can make. Let us help you get back on the road with confidence!

Imagine getting into your car after waiting for it to be repaired after a collision only to find that it is noisier than ever. Whistling and other wind sounds can be distracting and frustrating, especially after receiving your car back from a mechanic. This unexpected issue can stem from a variety of factors, including misaligned panels, faulty seals, or windshield replacements. Let’s explore why repaired cars sometimes have more wind noise and what can be done to fix it.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Wind noise after a repair is often caused by misaligned body panels, doors, or trim, creating gaps that disrupt airflow and let wind in.
• Damaged or improperly sealed weather-stripping around doors, windows, or the windshield can allow air leaks, leading to whistling sounds while driving.
• A poorly installed windshield may not be fully sealed, causing wind to enter through small gaps, especially at higher speeds.
• Side mirrors or trim that were removed or repositioned during repairs may not sit flush, increasing turbulence and contributing to excessive wind noise.
• Using aftermarket or ill-fitting replacement parts can alter the vehicle’s aerodynamics, so choosing OEM parts and ensuring precise installation can help maintain a quiet ride.

 

Common Causes of Increased Wind Noise After Repairs

Here are the causes of wind noise in a vehicle:

 

1. Misaligned Body Panels or Doors

Even if your car looks fine after a repair, slight misalignments in the doors, hood, fenders, or trunk can create gaps that allow wind to seep in. Vehicles are designed with tight panel gaps to minimize air resistance, so even a minor imperfection can disrupt airflow and lead to noticeable wind noise.

 

The solution is to check for uneven gaps around the doors, hood, and trunk. If you notice any gaps or misalignment, take pictures and then return your car to the repair shop for adjustments. Optionally, you can go somewhere else. It is important that panels correctly fit together for structural stability and aerodynamics.

 

2. Damaged or Improperly Sealed Weather-Stripping

Weather-stripping is the rubber seal around doors, windows, and the windshield that prevents air and moisture from entering the cabin. If these seals were removed or replaced during repairs, they might not be reinstalled correctly, leading to gaps where wind can pass through.

 

You can determine if the wind noise is caused by a weather-stripping issue by inspecting it. Also, try the dollar bill test: close the door on a dollar bill and see if it slides out easily. If it does, the seal may not be tight enough. Often, the seals can be replaced using DIY methods, but you can always go back to the repair center.

 

3. Windshield Replacement Issues

If your windshield was replaced after an accident, improper installation could be the cause of increased wind noise. A poorly sealed windshield can allow air to whistle through small openings, especially at higher speeds.

 

You may hear a whistling while driving. Press lightly along the edges of the windshield to see if they feel loose. If you suspect a poor seal, return to the repair shop for a windshield inspection and resealing if necessary.

 

4. Side Mirror or Trim Misalignment

Side mirrors and exterior trim pieces are designed to reduce wind resistance and direct airflow efficiently. If these components were removed or repositioned during repairs, they may not sit flush against the vehicle, increasing turbulence and noise.

 

To figure out if there is a mirror or trim misalignment, you can touch the area or visibly inspect it. You should be able to see the uneven surface. If they appear loose or uneven, have them readjusted by a professional. Furthermore, ensure any missing clips or fasteners are replaced to hold trim securely in place.

 

5. Changes in Aerodynamics

Even small modifications to your vehicle’s aerodynamics—such as replacing body panels with slightly different parts—can affect how air flows around the car. If replacement parts aren’t an exact match to the original design, they can create subtle airflow disruptions that lead to wind noise.

 

One of the reasons you should go to a certified collision repair center like Elmer’s Auto Body rather than a direct partner of your insurance company is the use of OEM parts. Aftermarket parts may not fit correctly. If aftermarket parts were used, insist on having them swapped for manufacturer-approved parts. Optionally, adding deflectors or minor adjustments to trim might help restore proper airflow.

 

Get Professional Repairs from a South Jersey Collision Repair Center

If wind noises has increased after repairs, it is a sign that something is amiss. A certified collision repair center can identify any misalignments, faulty seals, or other overlooked issues that may have been overlooked by the other mechanics.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand how frustrating it can be to need repairs after getting repairs. That is why we hold ourselves to a higher standard. Our technicians ensure that every repair meets factory specifications, minimizing the chances of wind noise or other concerns. If your car is louder than usual after a repair, visit one of our South Jersey locations for a thorough inspection. We’ll make sure your vehicle is properly sealed and aligned, so you can enjoy a quiet and comfortable ride once again. Contact us today!

Side-impact collisions, otherwise known as T-bone accidents, are unfortunate and can cause a lot of damage to the frame and safety systems of your vehicle. Unlike front or rear-end crashes, where impact forces are more evenly distributed, side-impact crashes focus energy on a smaller area, making structural damage more severe. Even if the damage seems minor or cosmetic, there is a chance more has happened beneath the surface. Understanding how a side-impact collision may affect your vehicle is key in getting the proper repairs.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Side-impact collisions can cause significant structural damage by concentrating impact forces on a smaller area, potentially weakening the vehicle’s frame and safety systems.
• Frame damage from a side impact may include B-pillar and door frame damage, misalignment, crushed panels, and compromised crumple zones, all of which can reduce the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in future accidents.
• Safety features such as airbags, seatbelts, and sensors can be affected, potentially leading to malfunctions that compromise passenger protection in subsequent crashes.
• Warning signs of structural damage include misaligned doors, steering or handling issues, unusual noises, and visible warping, all of which should be inspected by a professional.

 

Side-Impact Collisions and Your Vehicle’s Frame

Your car’s frame is designed to absorb and distribute impact forces during a collision. However, in a side-impact crash, the energy is concentrated on a smaller area, making structural damage more likely. Here’s how a side-impact collision can affect your frame:

 

B-Pillar and Door Frame Damage

The B-pillar (the vertical support between the front and rear doors) plays a critical role in structural integrity. A severe impact can crush or bend this component, weakening the vehicle’s overall stability. If the damage is extensive, the pillar may require reinforcement or full replacement to restore safety.

 

Frame Misalignment

Getting T-boned transfers force across the entire body of the vehicle. In other words, the entire frame may shift, causing misalignment that affects steering, handling, and suspension. Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, poor fuel efficiency, and difficulty maintaining control while driving.

 

Crushed Side Panels

Side panels, doors, and rocker panels may deform under pressure, reducing the car’s ability to protect occupants in future accidents. Severe deformation can also compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, making it more vulnerable to future damage.

 

Weakened Crumple Zones

Many modern vehicles have crumple zones that are designed to absorb impact energy. If these zones are compromised, they may not function properly in subsequent collisions. This could lead to more severe injuries in future crashes, as the vehicle is less capable of managing crash energy effectively.

 

How Safety Features Are Affected by Side-Impact Collisions

A side-impact can damage the various safety features installed in modern day vehicles. Side-impact airbags, seatbelts, and sensors may all malfunction after a side-impact collision. For instance, if the side-impact airbags are deployed during the initial crash, they will need to be replaced. Even if the airbags don’t deploy, there is a high chance that the internal mechanisms suffered damage, rendering them unreliable.

 

Seatbelt retractors and tensioners may also suffer impairment. When that happens, the ability of the seatbelt to snap into place, securing you and other passengers, is dampened. This can increase injury during a collision or even during a sudden stop.

 

Another thing that can be damaged are sensors. Modern vehicles rely on sensors for airbags, lane assist, and stability control. A side-impact collision can damage these sensors, leading to system malfunctions. If not repaired, these issues can result in incorrect airbag deployment, inaccurate driver assistance responses, or failures in critical safety systems.

 

Signs Your Frame May Be Compromised

Have you been in a side-impact collision? Then you need to look out for these signs of structural damage:

 

• Doors Not Closing Properly: Misaligned doors that don’t shut completely suggest frame damage. This can also lead to water leaks and wind noise while driving.
• Steering and Handling Issues: A sudden change in steering response or pulling to one side can indicate misalignment. This can make driving dangerous, especially at higher speeds or in adverse weather conditions.
• Unusual Noises: Creaking or rattling sounds while driving may point to loose or damaged components. These noises may originate from weakened welds, loose fasteners, or compromised structural elements.
• Visible Warping or Gaps: Similar to doors not closely properly, uneven panel gaps or bending may suggest a structural weakness. Even minor distortions can indicate underlying damage that affects vehicle integrity and should be assessed by a professional repair shop.

 

Get Professional Frame Repair from a South Jersey Auto Body Repair Shop

If your vehicle has been involved in a side-impact collision, it’s essential to have it inspected by a trusted auto body repair shop. After all, there could be hidden damages left unseen. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we have the equipment and team members who can diagnose and repair the structural damage. Your car will be returned to its pre-accident condition—guaranteed. Contact one of our three South Jersey collision repair shops today or use our contact form to schedule an appointment. Let’s get your vehicle back on the road safely.