Things You Should Know About Vehicle Frame Realignment: Insights from an Auto Body Repair Company in Melrose Park, Illinois
All vehicles have a large metal frame that provides structure to the vehicle. Over time, this frame can take on all sorts of wear and tear, which can sometimes result in the frame becoming misaligned. This is why, from time to time, it’s necessary to realign a vehicle’s frame.
Does your vehicles frame need to be realigned? Looking for some information about the process? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This auto body repair company in Melrose Park, Illinois is going to discuss some of the key things you should know below.
What Causes Vehicle Frame Misalignment?
There are several factors that can lead to vehicle frame misalignment. These include (but aren’t limited to) the following:
Hitting Potholes
Although potholes may appear small, they can cause a great deal of damage. Upon hitting the bottom of the pothole, your vehicle will be subject to a great deal of impact. This puts stress on its frame, which could result in it becoming misaligned.
Running Over Curbs
Running over curbs can cause misalignment as well, especially if you hit them while driving at a decent speed. The sudden drop off the curb puts tremendous stress on your vehicle’s frame, and it could very well result in it becoming bent.
Auto Collisions
Auto collisions often lead to frame misalignment as well. This is true whether they’re high-impact collisions or simply minor fender benders. This is why, when having your vehicle inspected for damage after a collision, your auto body repair company in Melrose Park, Illinois should inspect the frame as well.
Signs That Your Vehicle Frame Is Bent
There are several signs that could indicate your vehicle frame is bent. Does your vehicle make a thumping noise when hitting bumps in the road? If so, frame damage might be having a negative effect on your vehicle’s suspension system.
Is one of your wheels taking on more wear and tear than the others? Frame misalignment could be the culprit. Perhaps something just feels different when you drive? This could be the result of frame damage as well.
There are also some noises that can indicate frame misalignment. For instance, if a groaning or squeaking noise presents itself while you’re driving or turning, you have reason to believe that a bent frame is the culprit.
The Downsides to Driving with a Misaligned Frame
There are several potential downsides to driving with a misaligned frame. These include the following:
Puts Undue Stress on Your Vehicle’s Components
In some cases, driving on a bent frame will cause auto component issues where they wouldn’t have existed otherwise. This is why it’s best to visit an auto body repair company in Melrose Park, Illinois as soon as you notice signs of a misaligned frame.
Unsafe Driving Conditions
Driving on a bent frame is unsafe for a variety of reasons. For one, it can alter your perception of what’s typical while driving, causing the road to look-off kilter. In addition, it can cause your vehicle to veer off in one direction or another, making it more difficult to control your vehicle.
Costs You Money in the Long Run
Because bent vehicle frames allow other auto components to take on stress, driving on a bent frame can cost you money in the long run. You could end up spending more to replace certain parts than you would have on a simple frame realignment.
Looking for an Auto Body Repair Company in Melrose Park, Illinois?
Is your vehicle’s frame out of alignment? Looking to have it fixed by the best auto body repair company in Melrose Park, Illinois? If so, look no further than the experts at Lombard Body & Fender.
Our auto mechanics have realigned countless vehicle frames throughout the Melrose Park area. Regardless of the extent of your frame’s misalignment, we are the people to call. Contact us today at (630) 627-8688 to schedule an appointment.
