4 Signs You Need to Contact an Auto Body Repair Specialist
As most car owners know, not every ding or scratch on your vehicle requires a full repair job. Minor cosmetic damage that's just superficial doesn't require immediate attention. However, your car requires professional body auto repairs when you notice more serious collision damage, mechanical issues, or performance changes. Watch for these key signs it’s time to contact an auto body repair specialist right away.
1. Visible Exterior Damage
Scuffs and superficial scratches aren't cause for concern, but any collision damage that impacts your exterior paint, metal panels, lights, bumpers, or trim indicates your car needs professional repairs. Cracks in body panels, wide dents with sharp creases, deep scrapes that expose metal, missing trim pieces, and collision damage that impacts the alignment of doors and hoods signal that repairs are necessary. Driving around with unsightly and progressively worsening exterior damage can lead to rust and more costly repairs.
2. Leaking Fluids Under the Car
Fluid leaks always warrant urgent attention and repairs. Watch beneath your parked car for any puddles. This includes dripping engine oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, brake fluid, or power steering fluid. Not only are leaks incredibly messy in your garage and driveway but continuing to drive your vehicle while critically low on vital fluids can quickly lead to catastrophic mechanical damage requiring very pricey repairs. Don't ignore this warning sign.
3. New Noises, Vibrations, or Shakes
Strange new noises like squeaking, scraping, knocking, or loud vibrations indicate potentially serious mechanical issues are arising. Problems with brakes, wheel bearings, belts, suspension components, alignment, and exhaust can all produce distinctive sounds and sensations that shouldn't be ignored. Identifying and addressing the root causes of new vibrations, sounds, and sensations through professional repairs prevents further damage down the road.
4. Reduced Performance Capabilities
Sluggish acceleration, reduced braking responsiveness, steering that pulls, poor gas mileage, overheating, and other performance changes all signify that it's time for professional auto repairs. Performance issues tend to worsen over time and lead to larger breakdowns if left unchecked. Auto body specialists have the skills to accurately diagnose even subtle underlying mechanical issues through test drives and inspections.
Don't wait until small problems balloon into major repair bills. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average car owner spends $548.32 fixing their cars. By watching for these signs, you can get necessary
auto repairs promptly to keep your car running safely and efficiently without needing to drop that kind of money. If you notice one or more of these signs, bring your car to Triangle Automotive Repair, Inc for an inspection and repair estimate.