In fact, most vehicles manufactured these days are done so in a way that ensures the frame is the component that crumples on impact, meaning any collision shock is absorbed by the vehicle, rather than you as the driver or your passengers. With that, it's worth knowing that frame damage is often entirely repairable, but it's important to go to a qualified shop to get the skilled work you need.

Here at the Dealership Autoplex Collision Center, we recognize the importance of having the specialist machines needed to address all your auto frame straightening issues after a car accident.

So, we're here to help you understand how frame straightening works and how it can be a safe solution after a collision.

1. What is a Frame?

Also known in the auto world as the chassis, a car's frame is an entirely structurebound component of your car. It holds the body and all other components of your vehicle together and in ship-shape condition, so it doesn't fall to pieces with a bit of speed. Plus, it's attached to a few major components such as the engine and suspension.

But there are various different types of frame designs out there. And knowing which one is holding up your vehicle will help you when choosing the right auto center for your frame repair.

The three major types of frame designs are:

• Body-on-Frame or Ladder Frames: These are stand-alone frames and are generally used for trucks, large SUVs, vans and antique cars.

• Unibody: This is when a vehicle's body and frame are welded as one and are used on most modern cars, minivans and crossovers.

• Spaceframe: These are a type of Unibody but have a higher structure strength for speed and are used in high-end luxury cars like Jaguars and Saturns.

2. What is Frame Straightening?

Frame straightening, as you may have guessed entirely from the name, is all about getting the chassis of your vehicle back to its original dent-free position. Often, it means making sure the frame meets the manufacturer's specification as it would when it leaves the factory floor. Auto Frame Straightening: How Does It Work?

Having a frame repair or going in for a frame straightening on your vehicle involves a specialized machine that uses lasers and pre-programmed specifications to align your vehicle frame much better than any work done by a technician's naked eye.

Using this specialized machine is crucial, as even a millimeter of skew from your vehicle's preferred frame could cause a big impact just a few miles down the highway.

The idea is that the machine's lasers are programmed to measure, bend and stretch your frame back to factory specification. All while ensuring it's level against both the road and the body of your vehicle so it's indistinguishable from its pre-collision condition.

3. When Does a Car Require Frame Straightening?

Frame repair is required when impact damage to your vehicle pushes the frame out of alignment. You'll notice some symptoms in the drive such as strange noises, uneven shock or even extra wear in some of your tires.

There are many types of accidents that could send your vehicle to a collision repair shop such as:

• A front collision which can cause the front of the frame to sag or twist.

• A corner hit to your vehicle which can cause sway damage.

• A rear-end or head-on collision which can cause the frame to crumple inward.

That said, the need for frame repair isn't always obvious in some instances, especially if your car doesn't appear badly damaged. So, it's important to have it checked by a qualified technician to ensure it's safe to drive after any bump or scrape.

4. Is Straightening Enough to Repair the Frame?

Think about crumpling a piece of paper. Even after you unfold each section and bring it back to its original shape, it'll still have fold marks, dents and deformities. And it's these sections that make the paper weaker, which is the same story for your car's frame.

So, while opting for frame straightening will get your car back to its original specifications and ready to roll on the highway, it's worth being mindful about needing further repairs and replacements down the line. For example, underbody layers may flake away in a shorter time.

When you bring a damaged vehicle into a repair shop, the frame should always be carefully inspected, using the proper technology. This way, your technician can assess the damage and structural integrity of the metal before they make any recommendations regarding frame repair.

5. Is My Car Safe to Drive After Frame Straightening? Auto Frame Straightening: How Does It Work?

The simple answer is yes. The slightly longer answer is that, only when the frame repair has been achieved and approved by your experienced technicians, you can be confident it's safe to drive. Even at Texan highway speeds!

In any case, your technician should always hook-up your vehicle to the latest electronic measuring systems. When they do this, it ensures the frame is realigned in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and not just by-the-eye.

This is because each manufacturer releases unique specifications for each model of vehicle and, to ensure the ride remains smooth and safe, auto frame alignment needs to adhere to them.

But when this is done, you'll have full peace of mind that you, your family, your friends and any other passengers you have riding with you are on safe wheels.

As you might have gathered from this article, frame repair after a car collision isn't just about restoring its appearance. It's about restoring your vehicle's ability to protect you and your passengers.

That's why our ASE-certified team of technicians understand this and take the safety of you and your passengers seriously. So, be assured in the knowledge that all frame straightening carried out is checked to the highest level before you head back on that highway.

To find out how the Dealership Autoplex Collision Center technicians can help you with your frame repairs, call us on (972) 242-0092 today. Or, browse the website to see our full range of auto services and shop opening times. This way, you can drive straight into the shop or have the team provide a shuttle service right here in Carrollton, TX.