When your vehicle is involved in a collision, the damage can range from minor cosmetic issues to major structural problems. Understanding the most common types of collision damage, and how professionals repair them, can help you make informed decisions and feel more confident during the repair process. Today, we at Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic would like to share the common types of collision damage and how they are fixed.
Bumper Damage
Bumpers are the first line of defense in a crash and often take the brunt of the impact. Damage can include dents, cracks, scrapes, or complete detachment. Depending on the severity, a technician may repair the bumper using paintless dent repair (PDR) techniques, plastic welding, or sanding and repainting. In more serious cases, especially if internal sensors are affected, the bumper may be replaced entirely.
Fender Damage
Fenders, which cover the wheel wells, often get crumpled in side or front-end collisions. Minor fender damage can often be repaired using reshaping and refinishing techniques. However, if the metal is torn, rusted, or extensively bent, a full fender replacement may be necessary.
Cracked or Shattered Windshields
Windshields can crack or shatter even in low-speed accidents. If the crack is smaller than a dollar bill and not in the driver’s line of vision, it can often be repaired using a special resin injection. However, larger or obstructive damage typically requires a full windshield replacement.
Frame Damage
One of the most serious types of collision damage is frame damage. This affects the structural integrity of the car and can be dangerous if not repaired properly. Repairing a damaged frame involves the use of computerized frame-straightening equipment, which uses hydraulic tools and laser measurements to restore the frame to factory specifications.
Paint Scratches & Dents
Minor collisions or “fender benders” often result in surface-level damage such as scratches, dings, or dents. Paintless dent repair is used when the paint is still intact, allowing technicians to massage the dent out from the inside. For deeper damage, sanding, filling, and repainting may be required to restore the finish.
Suspension Damage
A hard impact can misalign or damage your vehicle’s suspension system, affecting how it drives and handles. Repairing suspension damage may include replacing control arms, shocks, struts, or bushings. After any collision repair, technicians will also perform a wheel alignment to ensure the vehicle drives straight and tires wear evenly.
Electrical System Issues
Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced electrical systems, and even a minor collision can cause issues with sensors, lighting, or the vehicle’s computer. Diagnostics tools are used to pinpoint issues, and trained technicians may need to recalibrate systems like airbag sensors or parking assist features.
Auto Repair & Body Shop Services in Dallas, Texas (Just Minutes Away from Addison, Balch Springs, Carrollton, Cedar Hill, Coppell, DeSoto, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, Ferris, Garland, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mesquite, Ovilla, Richardson, Rowlett, Sachse, Seagoville, Sunnyvale & Wylie, TX)
No matter how minor or major the damage, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by certified collision repair professionals. They use specialized equipment and factory-approved techniques to ensure your car is safe, functional, and looking like new. Addressing all forms of damage properly not only preserves your vehicle’s value but also ensures your safety on the road. Call Top Notch Body Shop & Mechanic when you need auto body damage repairs.
