When you are involved in an auto accident, there are damage types that can change how your vehicle looks. For instance, during a collision, you’ll likely see some scratches, bends, and dents on the vehicle’s bumper. This type of car damage is easily visible to the naked eye and the repairs are easy as well. Physical damages to the car are also covered by insurance.
However, there’s another type of auto damage called mechanical damage. Today, we’ll talk about auto mechanical damage and the types that you should know.
What is Auto Mechanical Damage?
Depending on the severity of the collision, there are times that the base of the vehicle gets hit. The base is the life source of your vehicle and base damage can affect your car’s mobility. The collision can also damage your car’s mechanical parts including the tires, brakes, engine, and more.
An auto mechanical damage is not easily seen right out of the gate. You may even end up repairing the physical damage through an auto service company but still neglect the mechanical damage. Driving your car with mechanical damage may lead to another accident.
This type of damage requires immediate care and best left to the pros. It is important to understand the different types of damages so you can take the proper steps.
1. Brake Lines
If your brake lines are damaged after an accident, it’s obvious that you need to get it repaired immediately. A damaged brake line will significantly hamper your ability to quickly stop before hitting pedestrians or other cars.
A cracked brake line may also leak fluids. Brake fluids help with lubricating the pads and other components of the brake system. Without enough lubrication, the brakes may stick or give out.
Brake damage is best handled by a professional collision repair shop.
2. Tire and Wheel
Another common mechanical damage resulting from a collision is tire and wheel damage. In most cases, you’ll be able to identify if your tire and wheel have been damage. However, there are also times that the damage is hidden from plain sight. When this happens, it’s a no-brainer that your vehicle is unsafe to drive.
It’s always a good idea to have your wheel and tire checked by the pros after an accident.
3. Suspension System
The suspension system is another mechanical damage that may occur after an accident.
When the suspension system is damaged, you’ll notice that your ride is far from smooth. When your ride is bumpy or rough, your car’s suspension system must be checked. Other signs that your suspension has been damaged are difficulty with steering, the car pulls to one side, and the car sits low.
4. Engine
Don’t drive your car if there’s engine damage. It’s a problem that should be addressed immediately.
To determine if there’s engine damage, one of the first things to do is check your dashboard to see if your Check Engine light is on. If your car features an on-board diagnostics (OBD) system, you can check if there’s a problem with the engine. This warning can’t be taken for granted.
The engine is the heart of your car and a damaged one will significantly affect your car’s performance.
Find a Reliable Auto Shop for Mechanical Damage
While mechanical damage can be difficult to detect, a reputable collision repair shop can detect and repair these problems with ease. Understand that mechanical damage is serious and is best left to the pros. Contact a reliable mechanic to check your vehicle after an accident.
