Even a minor collision can impact your car’s drivability, even if the damage outside your vehicle looks minor. When an accident happens, you need to know whether or not your car is safe to drive or if it’s time to tow it to a body shop Windsor. Below we’ve listed some basic safety tests to perform after an accident to help you determine if your car is safe to drive.

Check for Visible Damage

If your car has visible damage that has caused pieces of the body to sag or fall, you should take it to an auto body shop as soon as possible to avoid risking further damage.

Inspect the Exterior

Start with a thorough inspection of your car’s exterior. Pay close attention to the:

Bumpers

These are the most common areas to get hit and can hide more severe damage.

Fenders and Doors

Check for any difficulty in opening and closing doors, as this could indicate frame and mechanical damage.

Check for Leaks

Fluids leaking from your car can indicate significant damage. If you spot any puddles or drips, it’s a clear sign that your car needs to be inspected by a professional.

Assess the Wheels and Tires

Make sure your wheels and tires are uncompromised:

Check Tire Condition

Look for punctures, cuts, or bulges that could lead to a blowout.

Alignment Test

Drive your car slowly in a straight line to see if it pulls to one side. Misalignment can indicate suspension or frame damage, making your car unsafe to drive which may require a professional body shop Windsor.

Evaluate the Suspension and Steering

Perform the following checks:

Test the Suspension

Press down on the front of your car with your full weight. Upon release, pay attention to how many times your car bounces. Three or more can indicate suspension issues and you may need an auto body repair.

Check the Steering

Drive your car at a low speed and gently turn the steering wheel to feel resistance or looseness. Steering issues make driving hazardous and should be addressed immediately.

Examine the Lights and Electronics

Make sure your lights and warning signals are in order:

Test All Lights

Ensure that all headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights are functioning correctly.

Check Dashboard Warning Lights

Turn on the ignition and check the dashboard for any warning lights. If any lights are illuminated, you should get your car professionally inspected.

Listen for Unusual Noises

Pay attention to possible audible signals of damage after a car accident:

Listen to the Engine

Start your engine and listen for any unusual noises such as knocking, ticking, or whining.

Test the Brakes

Drive your car at a low speed and gently apply the brakes. Listen for grinding or squeaking sounds and feel for any unusual vibrations.

Silveira Auto Body – Fixing Up Your Car for Save Driving

Ensure your car is safe to drive after an accident by scheduling a professional inspection with Silveira Auto Body.

Contact us today to book an appointment and let our experts restore your vehicle to its optimal condition.

Your safety is our priority, call us today at 707-433-2424.