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The Hidden Effects of a Minor Crash

Accident

(Photo: It’s important to have your car inspected at the body shop even after a minor fender bender / Flickr)

Even the most minor fender bender can have practically invisible after effects on a car. Yes, it is hard to miss the crushed bumper that sticks out like a sore thumb or a busted mirror, flattened tire and trashed headlights that beg for repair … But what about that leak lurking under your hood that started seeping shortly after the accident? Ensuring the crash didn’t wreck your vehicle’s long-term well-being means paying attention to what you can’t see as well as to what you can.

After a low-speed crash, you should have your car inspected thoroughly. These are some of symptoms you should look out for:

  • Reduced battery life – an impact can shake up sediment in a battery that can break or short out the lead plates inside, both of which can reduce battery life.
  • Check engine light flickering – many people don’t realize that a car can take three days or more for its computer to check everything and reset. This means that some problems will only appear later. If you see an engine light flickering, take it to a trusted mechanic for further analysis.
  • Look out for leaks – we can easily detect mechanical issues, but leaks, from oil to air conditioning and power steering fluid, can easily seep out of tiny cracks and go unnoticed after a crash.
  • Check your alignment – we often overlook suspension and drivability issues in a low impact collision. Your vehicle’s suspension system is precisely calibrated and could easily be thrown out of balance.
  • Be aware – pay close attention to gauges and any smells that might seem unusual.
  • Don’t wait – it is a good idea to have a car inspected by a mechanic within the first 30 days following an accident.

To ensure a collision doesn’t ruin your car’s optimum functionality, keep an eye out for these symptoms as they may indicate mechanical problems. Bring your car into Yark Collision Center for a complete checkup. We are an Ohio car body shop that specializes in car care and auto body and collision repair services.  Contact us in Toledo, OH, online or in person.

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6111 Fantasy Drive, Toledo, Ohio 43615

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