Can A Minor Car Accident Cause Serious Damage?
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Can A Minor Car Accident Cause Serious Damage?

Minor car accidents, more often referred to as fender benders, are the most common type of car accident and often don’t result in serious damage. However, whether there is obvious damage or not, it is always a good idea to take your vehicle to your trusted auto body shop to have it checked out.

Sometimes, even a minor collision can lead to major vehicle issues that you may not notice right away. Regardless of the severity of the crash, you need to watch, feel, and listen for any changes or possible symptoms of damage.

If you notice any of the following symptoms it is definitely time to take your vehicle in to have it inspected by an expert.

 

Your Battery Is Rapidly Discharging

It is always important to keep an eye on your battery and any signs that it may be dying. If your car won’t start, your lights are dimming, or your battery dies suddenly it is likely that it was caused as a result of your car accident.

Even small impacts can shift your battery out of position resulting in poor connections, shorts, or damage.

 

Performance Issues

 Vehicles are complex and delicate machines and any one of the many components can be damaged or disrupted during a collision. Your vehicle’s engine is particularly susceptible, so any noted reduction in performance, odd noises, change in vehicle behavior, or a check engine light should cue an expert inspection.

 

Alignment Issues

When your vehicle is properly aligned it will ride smoothly, your tires will wear evenly, and it should drive in a straight line without pulling to one side or the other.

However, even a minor car accident can cause the alignment to be thrown out. If you feel your vehicle pulling to one side, drifting, or riding rough your alignment could be out.

Leaving alignment issues uncorrected can result in many long-term issues with suspension, brakes, steering and tires, and will ultimately result in premature wear and repairs.

 

Check Engine Light

Check engine lights should not be taken lightly and whenever your light illuminates you should never ignore it. If your check engine light appears following a car accident it is probably related and could signal serious issues.

Small issues can often be symptoms of larger issues and taking your vehicle in to be inspected is always your best bet.

If your check engine light illuminates or flickers, get your vehicle checked out immediately.

 

Transmission Issues

Although less common after a fender bender, transmission issues can be a result of a collision and are definitely not something you want to ignore. Rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles are particularly vulnerable to transmission issues, even after a minor accident.

If you notice your vehicle shifting roughly, accelerating slowly, or making loud clunking sounds while shifting gears you should take your car in immediately before the issue worsens. Often, when transmission damage goes unrepaired it can actually lead to serious, irreparable damage requiring costly replacement.

 

Electrical System Issues 

If you notice issues with any of your vehicle’s components that are controlled by the electrical system have them checked out as this can be a sign of more serious issues.

If you notice any new problems with things like your power windows, displays, power locks, stereo/nav, etc. it is time to bring your vehicle in to an expert for a proper diagnosis.

Electrical components can be easily damaged during even a minor fender bender and often lead to more serious issues.

Keep in mind that a poor battery connection or dying battery can also cause unpredictable behavior of your electronic components, so this is a good place to start if you are having issues.

 

Leaks

Leaks are a common result of traffic collisions – even minor ones. Even the smallest car accidents can cause contact or pinches in just the right place resulting in a damaged radiator, nicked oil lines, or punctures to one of the many reservoirs under your hood.

Just keep in mind that your vehicle should not be leaking. If you notice fluid under your vehicle, or a leak under the hood it is important to have your vehicle inspected immediately to find the source before more permanent damage is caused.

 

Exhaust Issues 

Exhaust issues are a common problem following an impact, particularly from the rear. Even a minor collision can cause damage to the exhaust system, which can result in further issues and damage to your vehicles internal components.

Even something as minor as a bent tailpipe can result in the inability for your exhaust system to properly remove toxic fumes, can reduce fuel economy, and can cause excessive heat even resulting in fires.

If you notice any damage to your exhaust system, an increase in the odor in the cabin of your vehicle, clunking or rattling noise, or a change in the tone of your exhaust it is most definitely in your best interest to bring your vehicle in to get checked out.

 

Scratches And Dents

Often, small dents and scratches from a minor accident go unrepaired, unfortunately, these small dents and scratches can end up being very costly if not addressed quickly.

Even with the utmost care to park indoors, wash your car regularly, and monitor the damages, humidity, water, salt, and road grime will eventually cause scratches and dents to rust. Rust spots can then travel under the paint, penetrating deep into the vehicle eating holes in body panels, fasteners, and eventually the frame.

It is always a good idea to deal with scratches and dents immediately in order to avoid further issues and preserve the resale value of your vehicle.

 

Southern Auto Body To The Rescue 

Being one of your biggest financial investments, and something you rely on every day, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is safe and reliable. It is particularly important to ensure your vehicle is safe after a collision.

At Southern Auto Body we have been serving Edmonton and area for over 50 years and our experts are committed to providing you with the highest standard in service, quality, and convenience. We are a one-stop shop for all your vehicle needs and will work with you to provide stress-free service, getting you back on the road quickly and safely.

Contact us today with any questions you may have or to schedule your appointment for an estimate or repairs!

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