After a collision, your car might look fine on the outside—but beneath the surface, major damage could be hiding.
Structural damage is not always visible, and that is why many drivers feel their heart drop when they hear, "Your car has structural damage."
Understanding what structural damage means—recognizing its signs—will protect your wallet and also your safety.
In this guide, we break down what structural damage means, how to spot it, its risks, and the best repair options available.
Every house is standing on a strong foundation. Like that foundation, structural damage means a weak, cracked framework and support systems for a vehicle.
Do not get it twisted. Many drivers confuse cosmetic damage with structural damage.
Includes scratches, dents, and bumps.
Affects the frame, chassis, and crumple zones.
Here is a breakdown of the structural components for better understanding:
Every structural component is significant to a vehicle's health and performance.
The Collision Industry Conference (CIC) found that 90% of the vehicles were "total losses" after repair when re-inspected, and approximately 50% had significant frame/structural damage that was not addressed.
Beyond the signs and predictions, a vehicle must undergo an accurate diagnosis to ascertain its structural damage.
Ways to achieve this in our current modern day:
Tip-off: Certified repair shops possess such advanced technological tools for precise structural damage restoration.
1.
A car with a structural damage repair history may lose 30—70% in value.
2.
A weak frame might be unable to protect both the car and passengers in a future collision.
3.
Some insurers may declare it a "total loss" even if repairable.
For example, at Regal Repair, we use OEM frame machines, 3D scanners, and other state-of-the-art equipment to restore structural damage to factory standards.
Finally - Do not Panic, but Do not Ignore It Either.
Structural damage can happen to a car. But it's not the end of the road for your vehicle. It demands proper and precise repair to restore it.
Learn About Structural Repair
P.S. You can always call Regal Repair for help.
Regal Repair is an I-CAR Gold Class, OEM-certified auto body shop in Los Angeles offering certified collision repair, free estimates and a lifetime warranty. Visit the shop nearest you: North Hollywood, Van Nuys or Venice & Santa Monica. Get a free estimate or see all service areas.
Get your car repaired at Regal Repair
OEM-certified collision repair and auto body work at two Los Angeles shops: our North Hollywood auto body shop at 5430 Cahuenga Blvd, (818) 505-1442, and our Venice auto body shop at 2101 Lincoln Blvd, (424) 645-0005. See all collision repair services in Los Angeles or get a free estimate.
Save even more at Regal Repair for all your collision repair needs. Take advantage of our special collision repair coupons and deals to get your vehicle back in shape without overspending. Whether it's a minor dent or major damage, our offers provide affordable, high-quality repair solutions. Don't miss out on these limited-time discounts — explore our deals today and ensure your car receives the best care at the best price! Please mention the website coupon at the time of the vehicle estimate.
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