Learning About Manual Gearboxes

Each time you get behind the wheel of a car, you run the risk of being involved in an auto accident. Most drivers are familiar with the types of visible damage that can occur during a collision. After all, it's hard to overlook a folded hood, dented bumper, or broken glass. What drivers may not be familiar with is the danger of hidden collision damage.

A car that appears to be completely fine at first glance could actually have hidden damage that needs to be repaired in order to prevent future trouble.

Here are three types of hidden damage that you will want to check for following any collisions you have in your car in the future.

1. Frame Damage

The frame is the main support structure for your car. If any of the components that make up the frame are bent during a collision, the frame will no longer provide optimal support.

A bent frame can lead to irregular tire wear, radiator failure, and suspension problems.

Internal frame damage isn't always visible to the naked eye. It's always best to have an experienced body shop look at your vehicle following a collision to determine if frame repairs are needed.

2. Trunk Issues

Many of the collisions that occur on public roadways involve one vehicle rear-ending another vehicle. While the bumper of your vehicle will absorb a lot of the impact during a rear-end collision, the angle and speed of the impact could cause hidden damage to your trunk.

Some of the most common types of trunk issues that drivers face following a rear-end collision include malfunctioning locking mechanisms, leaks caused by a damaged trunk seal, and difficulty opening the trunk lid or keeping the trunk lid closed.

A collision repair expert will be able to assess the condition of your trunk after you have been rear-ended to determine if any hidden damage has occurred.

3. Electrical System Damage

Modern vehicles rely heavily on their electric systems to power vital components. A collision has the potential to create issues within the electrical system that could affect your car's performance in the future.

Since electrical issues can't be spotted by most drivers, you may not learn about this type of damage until your car starts malfunctioning. Loose wire connections can prevent your interior and exterior lights from operating properly. Damaged wires could prevent your battery from functioning, which could leave you stranded.

Always have an auto collision repair service check for electrical damage following a collision.