It's no secret that if you own a car, you'll need to maintain and get it repaired occasionally. Did you know that, according to Driver Knowledge, car accidents in the United States average about 6 million each year? That means there are a lot of auto body repairs needed across the country. But are you aware of the surprising auto body repairs your car might need? Worry no more because we've got you covered. In this article, we'll share nine auto body repairs your car might need that a car body shop can help with whether you've been in an accident or not.

1. Bumper Repairs

Bumper repairs are one of the most common auto body repairs, especially after an accident. Fender-benders are one of the most common types of accidents, and getting rear-ended is one of the most common types of fender-benders. Many car owners are familiar with these repairs, but did you know that your car's bumper may need to be repaired or replaced even if it hasn't been in an accident? In addition to a collision with another vehicle or stationary object, the bumper can be damaged by a variety of factors, such as debris on the road, parking lot scrapes, or even extreme weather conditions. Outside of these events, sometimes a car is just getting older and rustier, so a new bumper may be necessary.

Think about when you've parked near a curb too close and heard your bumper scrape it. Maybe there was a storm in your area with high winds that may have blown branches, debris, or trees into your car's bumper. If you suspect your bumper has suffered damage for any reason, it's important to take it to a car body shop to be assessed and repaired.

A replacement may be in order if your car's bumper is severely damaged or cracked beyond repair. Don't delay in having it replaced if needed, as it is vital to your safety as well as maintaining your car's value.

2. Windshield Repairs

Your car's windshield is essential for providing visibility and safety. That's why it's important to know that they can be vulnerable to damage. From time to time, you may be driving on the highway behind a truck that kicks up a rock and chips your windshield. Small chips and cracks on your windshield may not seem like a big deal, but they can quickly become a safety hazard. The smallest crack can weaken your windshield and cause it to shatter, which puts you and your passengers at risk.

If you don't get your cracked windshield fixed promptly when it's been damaged, you may notice that the crack expands across it. This weakens the windshield even more, in addition to affecting your visibility. That's why it's important to get any cracks or chips repaired as soon as possible, no matter how big or small.

3. Paintless Dent Repairs

Have you ever heard of paintless dent repairs? They are a surprising auto body repair that many automobile owners may not be aware of. This repair technique involves massaging the dent out of your car's body panel without damaging the paint. If you have dents that are minor, a car body shop may recommend a paintless dent repair.

Have you ever been shopping and come out of the store only to find a shopping cart has dinged your car? Or has hail damaged your vehicle? Or maybe someone has opened their car door and caused a dent in yours. These types of repairs are ideal for minor dents in your vehicle. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also maintains the original painted finish of your car.

4. Wheel Repairs

Damaged wheels affect the look of your car and its performance. Dented, bent, or cracked wheels can cause problems like causing uneven tire wear, vibrations, and steering problems.

Sometimes, a car body shop may be able to repair the damage with wheel repair techniques such as welding or straightening. If the damage is severe, a professional will assess it and inform you if you need to replace the wheels entirely. Either way, it's important to address any wheel damage right away to ensure your safety on the road.

5. Headlight Restoration

Your car's headlights are crucial for visibility, but they can become cloudy and discolored over time, making it difficult to see at night. This is a common issue, and the good news is that it can be fixed with headlight restoration. This involves a professional using specialized equipment to remove the cloudy layer that's formed over time and restore your headlights to their original clear state. You'll be surprised how something so simple can greatly improve your visibility and safety on the road.

6. Rust Repairs

No one likes to see rust on their vehicle. It's a common problem for many car owners, especially those living in areas with high humidity or exposure to saltwater, like when you go to the beach. Rust can cause severe damage to your car's body, weakening it and compromising its structural integrity. It's important to address all signs of rust by taking your vehicle to a car body shop as soon as you notice it. This will prevent it from spreading and causing more significant damage.

7. Brake Pad Repair or Replacement

We're sure you'll agree that keeping your brakes in tip-top shape is important. If you notice something isn't quite right with them, be sure to contact a car body shop immediately to have them checked out. Brake pad repair ensures your car's safety. Worn-out brake pads can affect the way your car's brakes perform, making it difficult to stop when needed.

If something has gone awry with your brakes, you may hear squeaking or grinding sounds while applying your brakes. That's a good indication that it's time for a brake pad replacement. Regular brake pad inspections and replacements can prevent accidents and protect the lives of you and your passengers.

8. Electrical Wiring Repair

Electrical wiring repairs may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of auto body repairs. However, they're crucial to ensure your car's electrical system is functioning properly. Electrical problems can cause a multitude of issues, such as dead batteries, malfunctioning lights, or problems starting the engine. An experienced mechanic can diagnose and repair any electrical problems to ensure your car runs smoothly once again.

9. Suspension Repair

The suspension system is responsible for you having a smooth and comfortable ride every time you take your car on the road. But just like other automobile parts, it's also prone to wear and tear, especially if you drive on rough terrain regularly. When there's something wrong with your suspension system, it won't take long to notice. Signs will include experiencing a bumpy ride, uneven tire wear, and difficulty steering. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to get your suspension system checked and repaired by a professional mechanic.

As you can see, these auto-body repairs may surprise you. Yet, they can help your car run more smoothly and safely whether you've been in a collision or not. Auto-body repairs are just an inevitable part of owning a car. Keeping your car in good condition by addressing any issues with a reputable car body shop as soon as possible can save you money in the long run and keep you safe on the road. Next time you suspect your car isn't running well or has experienced some damage, don't hesitate to contact City Side Auto Body.