Top 5 Signs Your Car Needs More Than Just Cosmetic Repairs

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May 7
3 min read

After a fender bender or minor accident, it’s easy to assume that your car only needs a quick paint job or dent removal. But beneath the surface, there could be serious damage that affects your vehicle’s safety and performance. At Mr. Collision, we see many cars that appear fine on the outside but have hidden issues that require expert attention. Here are the top five signs that your car might need more than just cosmetic repairs—and why it’s important to address them promptly.

Mr. Collision Auto Body offers certified procedures for Honda, Acura, Subaru, and Ford in Hollywood

1. Misaligned Steering or Pulling to One Side

If your car starts pulling left or right after an accident, even slightly, it could indicate frame damage or issues with the suspension system. This type of misalignment isn’t just inconvenient—it can cause uneven tire wear, reduce fuel efficiency, and pose serious safety risks.

What to watch for:

Steering wheel not centered
Car drifts when driving straight
Uneven or rapid tire wear

2. Unusual Noises or Vibrations

Squeaking, grinding, or rattling noises post-collision are red flags. These sounds often signal internal damage to critical components like the suspension, brakes, or drivetrain. Vibrations, especially when accelerating or braking, should never be ignored.

Possible causes include:

Bent axles or driveshafts
Damaged wheel bearings
Loosened body panels or mounts

3. Dashboard Warning Lights

Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that detect issues long before they’re visible. If warning lights like ABS, check engine, or airbag indicators appear after a crash, it’s a sign that something more serious could be wrong. These systems need to be professionally scanned and recalibrated.

Mr. Collision uses advanced diagnostics to:

Scan for fault codes
Recalibrate ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
Ensure airbag and safety systems are fully functional

4. Gaps, Misaligned Panels, or Doors That Don’t Close Properly

If your hood, trunk, or doors don’t close as smoothly as before, or if you see uneven gaps between body panels, there’s a good chance the vehicle’s structural integrity has been compromised. Even minor frame shifts can affect crash safety and require precise measurements to repair.

What this might mean:

Hidden frame or unibody damage
Twisted or bent mounting points
Misalignment of safety crumple zones

5. Fluid Leaks or Unusual Smells

A small puddle under your vehicle could be a sign of a coolant, oil, or transmission fluid leak caused by damaged lines, cracked radiators, or compromised seals. Likewise, burning smells or fuel odors shouldn’t be ignored—they may signal a risk of fire or major engine trouble.

Check for:

Colored fluid under the car
Smoke or burning smells from the hood
Dashboard temperature warnings

Don’t Take Chances With Hidden Damage

Even if your car looks okay after a minor accident, hidden damage can worsen over time and lead to unsafe driving conditions or costly repairs down the road. At Mr. Collision, we go beyond surface-level assessments to provide thorough inspections using digital imaging, computerized frame analysis, and manufacturer-certified procedures.

Why trust Mr. Collision:

Certified by Honda, Acura, Subaru, and Ford
I-CAR Gold Class trained technicians
Full structural assessments and repair documentation
OEM parts and factory-precise restoration

Schedule a Free Damage Inspection Today

Don’t wait for a small problem to become a big one. Visit Mr. Collision at 6514 Santa Monica Blvd for a free post-collision inspection. Our expert team will identify any hidden issues and guide you through the best path forward, including insurance support and guaranteed repairs.