Repair guide
What Is Frame Damage and How Do You Spot It?
By K SAM Automotive Inc. · Updated
The short answer
Frame damage is damage to the structure that holds the vehicle together, not just its outer panels. Common signs are uneven gaps between panels, doors or trunk that no longer close properly, and the car pulling or driving differently after a collision.
Frame vs unibody
Trucks and some SUVs are built on a separate frame. Most cars and crossovers use a unibody, where the body itself is the structure. Either way, damage to that structure affects how the vehicle drives and how it protects you in a future crash.
Signs to look for
- Panel gaps that are wider on one side than the other
- Doors, hood or trunk that stick, rub or will not latch
- The car pulls to one side or the steering wheel is off centre
- Uneven tire wear soon after the accident
- Creases or kinks in the floor, pillars or under the hood
How it is checked
Structural damage is confirmed by measuring the vehicle against the manufacturer's dimensions, not by eye. If you notice any of the signs above after a collision, have the vehicle inspected before driving it regularly.
Common questions
Can frame damage be repaired?
Often, yes. The structure is measured, straightened or sectioned, and measured again to confirm it is back within specification.
Is it safe to drive with frame damage?
It may not be. Structural damage can affect handling and crash protection, so have it inspected before regular driving.
