What is Structural Damage on a Car?

In this article, we’ll discuss what is structural damage on a car and what examples you may find in a cars history when you do a VIN or Licence Plate check on a vehicle you’re looking to buy.

When purchasing a used car, it’s essential to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition. One of the most critical aspects of a car’s history is its structural integrity. Structural damage can significantly impact a car’s safety and reliability, making it essential to identify any damage before making a purchase. A VIN check report can provide valuable information about a vehicle’s history, including any accidents or damage that it may have sustained in the past. In this article, we’ll explore the most common types of structural damage that are reported in a VIN check report.

Frame Damage

Frame damage is one of the most severe types of structural damage a car can experience. A car’s frame is the backbone of the vehicle, providing support for the entire car. Any damage to the frame can impact the car’s structural integrity, potentially compromising the vehicle’s safety.

Frame damage typically occurs in a high-speed collision or a significant impact from another vehicle or object. In some cases, the damage may be visible, such as a bent or twisted frame. In other cases, the damage may not be visible but can still impact the car’s safety and reliability.

Frame damage can be costly to repair, and in some cases, it may be impossible to restore the vehicle to its pre-accident condition. Even if the frame is repaired, it’s essential to note that a car with frame damage may have reduced value and may not be as safe as a car without damage.

Suspension Damage

A car’s suspension system is responsible for supporting the vehicle’s weight, absorbing shock, and providing stability and control. Any damage to the suspension system can significantly impact the car’s handling, causing the vehicle to be unstable or difficult to control.

Suspension damage can occur in various ways, such as hitting a pothole or curb or being involved in an accident. The damage may be visible, such as bent or broken suspension components, or it may not be visible but can still impact the car’s safety and reliability.

Suspension damage can be costly to repair, depending on the severity of the damage. In some cases, the damage may require replacing the entire suspension system, which can be expensive. A car with suspension damage may have reduced value and may not be as safe as a car without damage.

Axle Damage

A car’s axles are responsible for transmitting power from the transmission to the wheels. Any damage to the axles can impact the car’s ability to move, potentially leaving the vehicle inoperable.

Axle damage can occur in various ways, such as hitting a pothole or curb or being involved in an accident. The damage may be visible, such as a bent or broken axle, or it may not be visible but can still impact the car’s safety and reliability.

Axle damage can be costly to repair, depending on the severity of the damage. In some cases, the damage may require replacing the entire axle, which can be expensive. A car with axle damage may have reduced value and may not be as safe as a car without damage.

Body Damage

Body damage refers to any damage to the car’s exterior, including the fenders, doors, hood, and trunk. While body damage may not impact the car’s structural integrity directly, it can still impact the car’s safety and reliability.

Body damage can occur in various ways, such as being involved in an accident or being hit by a hailstorm or tree branch. The damage may be visible, such as dents or scratches, or it may not be visible but can still impact the car’s safety and reliability.

Body damage can be costly to repair, depending on the severity of the damage. In some cases, the damage may require replacing entire body panels, which can be expensive. A car with body damage may have

Structural damage can be one of the most serious issues with a car’s history so it pays to get a VIN or licence plate check and see if there’s any structural damage on any vehicle that you maybe considering buying.