Auto Frame Repair
Did you know that your car’s frame can sustain serious damage, even after a minor accident? Even if your vehicle appears to be mostly unscathed on the outside, unseen damage could be lurking underneath in the vehicle’s frame. The process of repairing structural damage to your car can be difficult and dangerous.
For all of those reasons, it’s critical to find an auto body shop with verified experience in frame repairs. At Alexander Body & Fender, it’s part of our Gold Standard best practice to remove every panel and inspect every part of your vehicle before we return it to you; this includes the vehicle frame.
The Options for Vehicle Frame Repair
Auto Frame Straightening
Bringing metal back into alignment is no easy task. However, with the proper tools frame straightening is the ideal option for restoring your car to the same condition pre-accident. Using our state-of-art CAR-O-LINER computerized unibody and frame measuring equipment we can determine if there is any frame damage. Our technicians will use OEM specs to measure the degree of damage and then use the proper tools to make the repair. We’ll ensure there is no damage to the chassis and make repairs here if needed, as well.
Today most cars are built using Uni-body frames, that’s where the frame and the body are as one. Our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of-the-art computer measuring system, can return your vehicle back to original factory specifications. If it is determined that your frame section is bent beyond repair, most manufacturers sell frame portions that can be sectioned into your vehicle.
Auto Frame Welding
If a traditional frame straightening technique won’t get the job done, an alternative solution is to remove the bent portions of the frame and weld in new straight metal. It’s important to note that this can significantly reduce the structural integrity of the frame and this is not often our first choice.
If the Frame is Beyond Repair
Occasionally, a vehicle’s frame may be beyond repair and we may suggest simply scrapping the vehicle. This is only the case if we believe that the frame is so bent that it will never drive the same. In such a case, you’ll be cut a check from your insurance company for the estimated value of the car and hopefully this is enough to get you into a new vehicle.
Contact Us for a Free Estimate on Frame Repair
If you bring your vehicle to us for an auto body repair that is related to an accident, we are going to check the frame as well. It’s part of our best practice to repair ALL damage; not just damage that is seen. However, if you’ve had your vehicle repaired by another auto body shop after an accident and have noticed that it’s not driving properly, the car could have unseen damage to the frame. If that’s the case, we encourage you to call us today at (330) 376-8105 or contact us online.
Don’t let another week go by driving on a damage frame. In most cases, our experienced technicians can restore your frame to factory specifications so that you can enjoy a safe and smooth drive.
![What is Betterment? [A Collision Repair Industry Term Explained]](https://www.alexanderbody.com/wp-content/uploads/betterment-new-tire-car-300x200.jpg)
Common Questions about Car Repair
-
Are you open on Saturday?
Yes, we are open Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM unless otherwise noted.
-
Where do I get a claim number?
Claim numbers are issued by the insurance company at the time the accident is reported. Just call your insurance company and ask them for the claim number. If the claim has already been started they should have a claim number assigned to your vehicle.
-
If the vehicles frame is damaged is the car a total loss?
No. A car is only a total loss when the price of the repairs exceeds the insurance companies determined value of your vehicle. Today, most cars are built using a unibody (that’s where the frame and body are as one) construction. Our highly skilled technicians, with the aid of our state-of-the-art computer measuring system can return your vehicle back to original specifications. If it is determined that your frame section is bent beyond repair, most manufacturers sell frame portions that can be sectioned into your vehicle.
-
How can I get a rental car while my car is being repaired?
If you are in need of a rental car we would be glad to make arrangements for you. We can call the rental company and they will have a car ready for you when you drop your vehicle off. Insurance companies only pay for a rental car if you have that coverage on your policy or you are claimant (meaning you were hit by somebody). If you do not have rental coverage on your policy we do get a discount from the rental company if you tell them you are our customer and to give you our rate. When your car is finished you can leave your rental here, they will come and pick it up at our shop.
-
Can I get a ride home when I drop off my car for repairs?
Yes, we do offer courtesy rides within a reasonable distance.
-
How long will the repairs to my vehicle take?
Your advisor can give you an estimate of the time it will take to have your vehicle repaired. There’s always a chance of additional damages that could not be seen at the time of your estimate. This will affect the repair time due to getting an approval from your insurance company, ordering additional parts, or additional labor.
-
How will I know when my car is finished?
We will give you a pre-call once the car is assembled and ready for our detail department. We will give you a final call once it meets our “Gold Standard” approval.
-
Is there a warranty on the repairs of my vehicle?
Yes. We warranty all repairs with a Lifetime Warranty on our workmanship as long as you own the car. Parts are warranted as per each vendor.
-
Do I have to pay a deductible?
After a collision, if you are the insured party (meaning the claim is going through your insurance) then yes you will owe a deductible. The amount of the deductible that you will be responsible for is determined by your insurance policy. If you are unsure what that amount is, call your insurance agent. If you are a claimant (meaning someone hit you), there is no deductible.
-
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and personal checks. And of course cash is always welcomed. Financing is available on all portions of your repairs if approved. Call our staff for details!
-
What do I do with the insurance check?
Do not cash the insurance check. Bring it with you when you drop off your vehicle for repairs.
Get in Touch
Not every collision requires an estimate. The first step is generally to call us (330) 376-8105 as every insurance carrier has a different process. Our 90+ years of experience allows us to walk you through your unique process with expertise.
No time to call? Fill out the form below and we will call you.