What Should I Check On My Car After A Collision?

What Should I Check On My Car After A Collision?

Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic and stressful experience. Apart from the personal injuries that may result from a crash, the damage to your vehicle can also be very expensive. After being involved in a collision, it is important to evaluate the extent of the damage to your car and know what to check to ensure it is roadworthy. In this blog post, we will discuss the crucial checks that you should make on your car after a collision.

Check the Exterior

Your car’s exterior is the first thing that comes in contact with any collision, and as such, it is essential to carry out a thorough check for any noticeable damages. You should focus on the bonnet, bumper, fender, headlights, taillights, and windscreen. Check for dents, scratches, cracks, or any other damage that might have been caused by the accident. While you may be able to see visible damage with your naked eye, you might need a professional eye to identify underlying issues that might impact your car’s performance.

Check the Engine

After any collision, it is important to check your car’s engine to ensure it is in good condition. You need to check the fluid levels such as the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, among others, to ensure they are not leaking. A collision may damage your engine and its components, resulting in fluid leaks or compression problems. Any leakages or potential damages must be fixed to minimize the probability of a breakdown while on the road.

Check the Wheel Alignment

Your car’s wheel alignment holds the key to your vehicle’s performance and safety. If your car wheels are not properly aligned, you may experience difficulties steering, which can be dangerous to you and other road users. If your car has been involved in a collision, the likelihood of the wheels being misaligned is high. It would help if you immediately took your car to a certified mechanic for a thorough wheel alignment check. If the wheels are misaligned, the mechanic will make the necessary adjustments to bring them back into balance.

Check the Suspension

Your car’s suspension system is responsible for dampening shock and vibrations caused by bumps in the road and giving you a smooth ride. A collision may damage the suspension system, resulting in reduced stability and comfort when driving. You should check on your car’s suspension after any accident to assess for damages. Check for any broken parts, bent axle, or damage to the wheels. The mechanic will recommend the necessary repairs to ensure your car is safe to drive.

Check the Airbags

Airbags are a lifesaver in a collision, and their functionality after an accident could mean the difference between life and death. You should check your car’s airbags immediately after a collision to ensure they deployed successfully. If they did not, you should take your car to a certified mechanic for the inspection and repair of any faulty airbag components. The airbag system can be complicated, and any attempt to repair them without the right knowledge can lead to severe injuries in the future.

Check the Brakes

Your car’s brakes are a crucial component, and any malfunction poses a severe safety risk to you and other road users. A collision can negatively impact your car’s braking system, affecting your car’s ability to stop. After any collision, you should pay extra attention to any signs of problems in the braking system. These include squealing or grinding sounds, spongy brake pedal, or reduced braking effectiveness. Any brake issues should be inspected by a certified mechanic and repaired as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, after you have been involved in a collision, you should take your car to a mechanic for a comprehensive assessment of potential damages. The checks outlined above are only some of the crucial ones you should make to ensure that your vehicle is safe and fit for the road. Remember that the safety of all road users depends on how well you maintain and care for your car. Always make sure you carry out regular maintenance and servicing checks to retain your car’s performance and keep you and others on the road safe.

If your vehicle is in need of repair after a collision, talk to one of our mechanics today! We look forward to hearing from you soon and getting your vehicle back out on the road!

Categorised in: Auto Body Repairs, Auto Restoration

This post was written by Writer