Rear-end collisions are more common than you think. In the U.S. alone, there are 1.7 million rear-end collisions annually.
While the severity of the collision may vary, the impact on your vehicle is almost always damaging. Of particular concern is that it is frequently difficult to judge these damages at first glance. The most minor of collisions can result in hidden breaks and defects that can put you and your family at risk.
We highlight the top hidden damages caused by minor auto collisions. These are damages that need immediate attention, otherwise your car becomes hazardous to drive.
Why Repair Your Vehicle After a Minor Collision?
Most car owners either ignore minor collisions or put off getting their car repaired until other issues pop up. You need to take your vehicle to an auto shop for collision repair, no matter how minor it may appear.
While you may think your car is running smoothly, a technician will inspect it properly to assess any hidden issues which are not immediately apparent. If you continue to drive it without automotive repair work, you run the risk of further damaging it.
Hybrid and electric cars require even more attention because minor issues within their systems can result in your car completely breaking down in the long run.
Neglecting your car will ultimately result in significantly higher repair costs. It also makes your car vulnerable to damages due to the weather. Let’s look at the most common damages that vehicles experience from minor collisions.
Suspension Issues
The suspension system plays a role in the comfort, handling, and overall drivability of the car. The suspension serves as a cushion between the vehicle and the road, reducing the impact of cracks and bumps.
While every minor collision doesn’t result in suspension issues, they are common. You can tell if your car has suspension issues when:
- You start to feel every bump on the road.
- One corner of the car appears to sit lower than the others.
- The car nose dives when you brake or rolls to the side when you corner.
- You have difficulties steering the car.
Consult a repair technician if your car shows any of the above signs. Ignoring suspension damages results in an unbalanced drive. The vehicle becomes harder to control and more prone to accidents.
Alignment Issues
Tire alignment is vital as it ensures the tire is centred and meets the road at the proper angle. Misalignment can result in your tires experiencing uneven wear and tear, which puts them at risk of damage.
You can tell if your car has alignment issues if:
- The steering wheel is not centred when you drive the car on a straight, levelled road.
- You notice your vehicle pull more towards one side of the road.
- Certain spots of the tire have abnormal wear.
- The car handling feels loose.
By addressing alignment issues, you save your tire from additional wear. Furthermore, you also save on the additional cost of having to get them replaced.
Electrical issues
Electrical issues are nearly impossible for drivers to diagnose.
A minor collision can result in a wire or two becoming loose, causing battery problems, brake light failure, indicators, and sensors to malfunction . This puts you and other drivers in danger when you drive your car out on the road.
Take your car to a mechanic so they can identify the electrical problem, take the measures necessary to correct it and make sure your vehicle is safe for you to drive.
Diagnose and fix Hidden Damages From Minor Collisions
Safety is the top concern for every driver. The last thing you want to do is put yourself and others at risk by not having your car inspected for damages after a minor accident.
Drivers in Toronto, ON, contact CSN Collision Centres at (416)259-6344 or book an appointment online. Our team will make sure your car is in top shape for the road after a collision.
