A car accident can leave behind more than the dents, scratches, and broken glass you can see. Some of the most serious problems may be hidden beneath the exterior, affecting your vehicle’s frame, suspension, electrical components, or mechanical systems. Even if your car appears drivable after a collision, it is important to know how to identify potential hidden damage before getting back on the road.
Nationwide, there are an estimated 700,000 hit-and-run accidents every year, making vehicle safety and thorough inspections especially important after a collision. In this article, we’ll explore some of the warning signs that could indicate your car has hidden damage after an accident.
Look for Changes in How Your Car Drives
One of the easiest ways to notice hidden damage is to pay attention to how your vehicle handles after an accident. If the car pulls to one side, the steering wheel feels off-center, or the vehicle vibrates while driving, there could be damage to the suspension, steering system, wheels, or alignment.
You may also notice unusual noises when turning, braking, or accelerating. These sounds should not be ignored, particularly if they were not present before the collision. Continuing to drive a vehicle with damaged components could make the problem worse or create additional safety concerns.
Check for Uneven Gaps or Body Panels
A vehicle’s exterior can provide clues about damage underneath. Look closely at the doors, hood, trunk, fenders, and other body panels. Uneven gaps, panels that no longer line up correctly, or doors that are difficult to open and close could indicate that the collision affected the vehicle’s structure.
Sometimes, these issues are subtle enough that they are difficult to identify without professional experience. A trained technician can inspect the vehicle more thoroughly and determine whether the body has shifted or structural components have been compromised.
Pay Attention to Warning Lights
Dashboard warning lights are another important sign of potential hidden damage. An accident can affect sensors, wiring, airbags, and other electronic systems. If your check engine, airbag, ABS, or other warning lights appear after a collision, have the vehicle inspected before assuming the issue is minor.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 794,000 auto service technicians. Professional technicians have the tools and training necessary to diagnose many problems that may not be obvious during a visual inspection.
Watch for Fluid Leaks
Fluid underneath your vehicle can also indicate hidden damage. Depending on the location and color of the fluid, a leak could involve the engine, transmission, coolant system, brakes, or other components. Even a small puddle should be investigated after an accident.
Pay attention to any new smells as well. The odor of fuel, burning materials, or leaking fluids could point to a problem that requires immediate attention. If you notice a significant leak or smell of gasoline, avoid driving the vehicle until it has been professionally evaluated.
Have the Vehicle Professionally Inspected
A professional inspection is one of the best ways to uncover damage that is not immediately visible. Technicians can examine the frame, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical systems, airbags, and other components that may have been affected by the impact.
This step is particularly important because a vehicle that looks fine on the outside may still have serious internal problems. In Georgia, the Department of Public Health reported that in 2020, automobile crashes claimed the highest number of lives and ranked second in hospital admissions. Taking potential collision damage seriously can help protect you and others on the road.
Hidden damage after an accident is not always easy to recognize. Changes in handling, uneven body panels, dashboard warning lights, fluid leaks, and unusual noises can all indicate that your vehicle needs further evaluation. When in doubt, having a qualified professional inspect your car can help identify problems before they become more expensive or dangerous.
A thorough inspection gives you greater confidence that your vehicle is safe to drive and helps ensure that damage from the accident is properly addressed.
