Types of Car Damage and How It’s Repaired

As much as you may try to avoid collisions and protect your car, your vehicle will likely sustain damage from circumstances out of your control. Whether on the road or in a parking lot, your vehicle is susceptible to both the elements and other vehicles. Although it’s frustrating to discover auto damage, many dents, dings, and scratches can be easily repaired by a trusted auto body shop.

Weather-Related Vehicle Damage

You don’t have to live in St. Louis for long to experience the variety of weather patterns. It’s common for the metro area to get a severe thunderstorm one day and snow the next. Any vehicle parked on the street or in the driveway is exposed to whatever weather event Mother Nature decides to pursue.

High Winds

Cars parked beneath trees or near structures are at an increased risk of being impacted by flying debris during high winds. Whether a branch or roof shingle hits your car, damage is a likely result. However, highly skilled auto body technicians can inspect and restore your vehicle.

Auto Hail Damage

A St. Louis weather phenomenon, hail storms can cause significant damage to homes and vehicles. It doesn’t have to hail for long for substantial denting to accumulate on the hood and roof of your car. Windshields and windows can crack or shatter, as well. No matter the issue, you can trust your local experts at Auto Beauty Specialists to repair your vehicle like new.

Dents and Dings

The terms “dents” and “dings” are often paired together but describe different kinds of auto body issues and repair methods. For instance, dings are minor and don’t chip the paint or expose your car’s frame. On the other hand, dents are more significant and can affect your car’s safety and structural integrity.

Dings are commonly the result of another driver’s door hitting yours in a parking lot (also known as a “door ding”). They don’t compromise the functionality of your car but do negatively impact resale value if left unrepaired. Dents create a more significant issue, as your vehicle’s metal can introduce rusting. A body filler is frequently used when repairing minor dings, whereas dented pieces may need to be replaced if paintless dent repair (PDR) isn’t an option.

Car Paint Damage

Dents typically cause paint damage due to hail or an auto accident, but other factors such as rocks, road debris, and bird droppings can also scratch a car’s surface. A vehicle’s paint consists of three layers, which include:

Scratches that only affect the paint job’s outermost surface are considered “cosmetic damage” and can usually be repaired with some buffering and touch up. Deeper scratches, however, require more attention and a sense of urgency. If left untreated, your car’s metal frame is vulnerable to dirt, water, salt, and other debris, increasing the risk of rust.

Collision Damage

Many rear-end accidents only cause relatively minor damage, such as a cracked bumper or broken tail lights. However, although the damage may not appear serious, it’s still in your best interest to have a professional inspect it. Underlying electrical problems or misalignment can stem from even the slightest fender-bender.

Additionally, your car’s frame, or unibody, can also be bent or cracked, resulting in significant safety concerns. Ignoring or dismissing what looks like minor bumper damage after a rear-end collision can create greater problems in the future. Highly trained technicians use specialized tools and equipment to identify and repair the issues on time.

Similarly, cars involved in front-end accidents also sustain damage, and frame or misalignment issues can arise. When the hood, bumper, grill, or headlights are cracked, dented, or disfigured, it’s essential to address the problems as soon as possible. Since most vehicles’ engines are located in the front, ensuring their functionality is paramount.

Windshield Damage

Windshield damage covers many types of cracks, fissures, and shatters. A professional must fix damaged windshields before the repairs become costly. The extent determines whether a windshield can be repaired or replaced. Any crack or chip extending longer than three inches will likely warrant a windshield replacement.

A trained professional will be able to determine the course of action. If your windshield requires replacement, the technician will remove the broken glass and seal a brand new OEM (original equipment manufacturer) product in its place. Conversely, a technician fixing a windshield will clean all dust from the area, inject a clear resin, then cure the solution before polishing.

Car Frame Damage

The metal or aluminum frame supports the weight of your vehicle’s engine, body panels, transmission, and other critical components. After any collision, your frame is the most at risk due to its significant responsibilities. If bent, cracked, or misaligned, your safety and your vehicle’s structure are negatively affected. Therefore, precise and specialized frame repair tools are needed to restore your vehicle to its original condition.

Take Your Vehicle to Our St. Louis Auto Body Repair Shop

At Auto Beauty Specialists, we take pride in our ability to restore damaged cars using best-in-class tools, technology, and techniques. We’re so confident in our repair capabilities that we guarantee all quality work for as long as you own your vehicle.

Our St. Louis auto body shop has repaired vehicles of all makes and models for over 55 years. We work with all insurance companies and offer free estimates, so you can focus on your day-to-day while we focus on your vehicle. If your car has sustained any damage, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re happy to help! Contact us today to get started.