Scratches, dents, and other forms of body damage aren't issues you should ignore. Body damage can affect your vehicle's performance and should be repaired as swiftly as possible. Keep an eye out for signs that your vehicle needs car body repairs.

1. Your Front Bumper Is Cracked

According to Pathways by Amica, around one-third of damage in collisions involves the front bumper. All front bumper damage should be taken seriously, but cracks in the bumper are a major concern. These cracks are difficult to repair and can signify that the front bumper should be replaced.

Water can seep into front bumper cracks, causing the bumper to rust. Cracks can also spread over time, especially if you're driving on bumpy roads. If a crack spreads far enough, it could even affect the hooks that secure the bumper. Have an auto body shop look at the bumper as soon as possible so your vehicle can get the necessary repairs.

2. There's Visible Paint Damage

If you've noticed that your car's paint job has started to peel, fade, or show signs of discoloration, you should consider repairs. Vehicles with paint damage are more likely to rust. Rust can spread quickly and eventually affect your vehicle's structural integrity.

After a car is painted, it's usually covered by a clear top coat. This coat shields your vehicle and protects it from damage. Once the paint coat is damaged, it can peel away, leaving your vehicle without protection. The paint might also peel away from other parts of your car without repairs. Quickly dealing with paint damage will help you avoid costly repairs later on.

3. Your Vehicle Has Fluid Stains

Oil, brake fluid, and coolant can all stain your vehicle and mar its appearance. Over time, these stains can lead to rust and corrosion, damaging the shell of your car. In addition, stains are often a sign of a more serious problem.

If engine oil leaks from your vehicle, you could be dealing with an oil pan leak or a worn engine gasket. Coolant stains usually appear when there's a crack in your vehicle's coolant reservoir. Taking your car in for body repairs will prevent damage and identify the root cause of the problem.

4. The Frame Is Slanted

Vehicle damage can cause your car's frame to tilt to one side. A tilted frame can impact your vehicle's aerodynamics, making it difficult to drive safely. If the damage is severe, it could even cause your car to drive at an angle.

A tilted frame could be caused by worn springs, a damaged axis, or issues with your suspension. You're more likely to see this type of damage after an accident, which makes it all the more important to seek car body repairs. Take care of the damage quickly so that you won't be at risk when you're on the road.

5. You're Using More Gas

Body damage can directly affect your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Dents, missing cladding, and other types of damage can make it harder for your vehicle to push past outside air as it moves. This loss of aerodynamics can put more stress on your engine, causing you to use more fuel.

Your vehicle is designed for maximum efficiency, and body damage directly affects how your vehicle moves. Increased fuel costs can add up quickly, so repairing your vehicle is the most cost-effective option. Make sure nothing is slowing your car down while you drive. Addressing performance issues will save gas and prevent other problems.

6. You've Been in an Accident

You should always have professionals look at your vehicle after a collision, even if the accident was only a minor fender bender. A few dents and scratches might not seem like a big deal, but your car has likely been damaged in ways you haven't noticed. The damage might appear cosmetic, but it could interfere with a car's performance.

An auto body repair shop can fix the visible damage to your vehicle while also looking for other problems. These repairs address issues that could potentially cause damage to your car. Even minor car accidents should be taken seriously. Let professionals take a closer look at your vehicle so that they can find out what's wrong.

Car body repairs can improve your vehicle's appearance and boost its resale value. Fast repairs are also a way to prevent additional damage to your vehicle. If you suspect your car needs body repairs, don't wait to take your vehicle in. Contact us today at City Side Auto Body to schedule repairs.