What Is Structural Damage on a Car? Understanding the Risks for Used Car Buyers

When shopping for a used car, there are numerous factors to consider: mileage, maintenance history, accident reports, and more. One critical aspect that buyers often overlook is structural damage. Understanding what constitutes structural damage, how it can affect the safety and longevity of a vehicle, and how to spot it, is essential for making an informed purchase.

In this blog, we’ll explain what structural damage on a car is, how it happens, and why it should be a red flag when buying a used car. Additionally, we’ll highlight how VINAutoChecker can help you buy used cars with confidence by providing comprehensive vehicle history reports.

What Is Structural Damage?

Structural damage refers to any damage that affects the frame or chassis of a vehicle. The frame is the vehicle’s core structure, which supports the engine, transmission, suspension, and other key components. It essentially forms the foundation for the car’s integrity and plays a major role in the vehicle’s safety.

Common types of structural damage include:

Frame Twisting or Bending: Often caused by major collisions, especially side impacts or frontal crashes. This can distort the vehicle’s frame, making it unsafe or difficult to repair properly.
Cracked or Bent Frame Rails: Frame rails run along the sides of the vehicle and provide crucial support. A bent or cracked frame rail can compromise the vehicle’s overall structural integrity.
Rust or Corrosion: Rust can weaken the frame, leading to potential structural failures. This is especially common in older vehicles or those exposed to harsh weather conditions like salt from roads in winter.
Subframe Damage: The subframe holds components like the suspension, exhaust system, and engine. Damage to the subframe can affect the car’s handling and overall performance.

Why Is Structural Damage Dangerous?

Structural damage compromises a car’s safety. The frame is designed to absorb impact during an accident, protecting the occupants from injury. If the frame is weakened or damaged, it may not perform as intended during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

In addition to safety concerns, structural damage can have a significant impact on a vehicle’s performance and resale value. A car with a damaged frame may have alignment issues, leading to poor handling or uneven tire wear. Furthermore, repairing structural damage can be costly, often requiring specialized knowledge and parts.

How Does Structural Damage Happen?

Structural damage typically occurs as a result of a serious accident, such as:

High-speed collisions: A head-on crash or rear-end collision at high speeds can easily cause frame damage.
Side impacts: T-bone accidents can cause significant distortion to the frame, especially if the vehicle is struck on the side.
Rollovers: Rollovers can bend, twist, or crack the frame due to the extreme forces involved.
Poor repair work: If a vehicle has been previously repaired after an accident and the work wasn’t done properly, it may result in weakened structural integrity.

How to Detect Structural Damage on a Used Car?

Spotting structural damage is not always easy, especially if you’re not a mechanic. However, there are a few signs you can look for:

Inconsistent Gaps in the Body Panels: If the body panels on the car don’t line up properly or there are uneven gaps between them, it could indicate that the frame has been bent or twisted.
Uneven Tire Wear: Damage to the frame can cause misalignment, leading to uneven tire wear or poor handling.
Visible Rust or Cracks: Check for signs of rust or cracks, particularly in the undercarriage or suspension area.
Unusual Noises: Clunking or squeaking noises when driving can be a sign that the frame is compromised.
Frame Measurements: A professional inspection may include measuring the frame to detect any bends or twists that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

How VINAutoChecker Can Help

If you’re considering buying a used car, it’s important to get a full history report to ensure you’re not purchasing a vehicle with hidden issues. VINAutoChecker provides comprehensive vehicle history reports that include crucial information on the car’s ownership history, accidents, damage reports, and even odometer readings.

Using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), VINAutoChecker allows you to:

Check for structural damage: Get detailed reports about any previous accidents and whether they involved significant structural damage.
Verify the vehicle’s accident history: Understand the severity of past accidents and whether they could have caused frame damage.
Assess the vehicle’s true mileage: Odometer discrepancies are common, and VINAutoChecker helps ensure the mileage on the car is accurate.
Learn about past ownership: Review the number of previous owners and whether the car has been regularly serviced or poorly maintained.

Having this kind of detailed information ensures you’re buying a used car that’s safe, reliable, and priced fairly. VINAutoChecker helps you buy with confidence and avoid the risks that come with purchasing a car with hidden structural issues.

Conclusion

Structural damage can be a serious problem for used car buyers. It compromises the vehicle’s safety, performance, and value. Whether it’s the result of a major accident or corrosion over time, understanding what structural damage is and how it can affect your car is crucial.

Before you buy a used car, make sure to get a comprehensive vehicle history report from VINAutoChecker. With our in-depth reports, you can uncover any hidden issues related to accidents, damage, and more—helping you make a more informed decision and drive away with peace of mind.

Drive safe, buy smart, and trust VINAutoChecker to provide the full picture of your potential new car!