Must-Do Inspections and Repairs After a Non-Fault Accident

Accidents can happen at any time without warning, leaving your car in seemingly good condition on the outside but potentially hiding much more serious problems under the surface. Ensuring your car is safe to drive takes more than just a glance over, even when it comes to non-fault accidents.

Unchecked damage can jeopardise your safety and affect your car’s performance in the long run. This article can help you confidently navigate through necessary inspections and repairs following a non-fault collision, protecting both your vehicle and yourself.

Crucial Inspections and Repairs After an Accident

Safety should always come first before inspecting your car for damages.

• Ensure everyone is safe after the accident and seek medical help if necessary.
• Exchange important information with the other parties involved and contact the appropriate authorities once you’ve addressed all immediate safety concerns.
• Take clear photos of impacted areas for an insurance claim submission.
• Get contact details of witnesses to the accident to support your claim.

Exterior 

During an inspection, look at your car closely for visible damage signs like chips, dents or scratches. Be thorough and cautious, as even minor damages can have serious underlying issues. 

Paint Restoration

After an accident, car paint damage due to scuffs, scratches, or chipping can lead to rust and corrosion. Auto paint professionals can colour match the original paint for a seamless finish and protect the car from further damage.

Body Panel Replacements

Replacing damaged body panels or bumpers after an accident is crucial for your car’s safety and functionality. These panels contribute to the structural strength of your car and ensure essential functions. Unrepaired panels can lead to long-term issues like rust, leaks, and misalignment. Replacing them makes sure your car returns to its original condition.

Interior

Make sure you don’t neglect your vehicle’s interior when inspecting damages. Check safety features like airbags, inspect the dashboard for any cracks or damage, and inspect seats and seat belts for stress or tearing. Report minor interior damages as they contribute to your insurance claims assessment.

Under the Hood

While visible exterior damages are often the first to catch your eye after an accident, it’s crucial to take a look under the hood:

• Start by checking the engine bay for signs of damage, such as leaks or cracked hoses. Pay attention to the alignment and condition of the engine parts, as displacement or visible damage could indicate more significant issues. 
• Check the fluid levels, including oil, coolant, transmission, and brake fluid, for leaks or compromised systems. 
• Listen for strange sounds and look for dashboard warning lights.

If you’re unfamiliar with these inspections or notice any issues, consult a qualified mechanic for a complete evaluation. An expert can detect hidden issues and ensure your car is roadworthy and safe to drive. 

Frame Damages

Your vehicle’s frame serves as its structural backbone, ensuring the stability and support of all components. Damage to the frame could jeopardise your vehicle’s safety, handling, and performance.

You can start by visually inspecting the frame for irregularities like bends, cracks, crumpling, or rust. Pay attention to the alignment since uneven or misaligned seating could indicate a compromised frame.

Not all frame damage is visible to the naked eye. Internal stress or minor fractures may go undetected without the proper tools and expertise, leading to further issues over time. Mechanics or collision repair specialists have advanced equipment that can detect hidden structural problems and determine whether they can repair the frame or if it needs to be replaced.

Wheel Alignment

An accident can cause wheel alignment issues, resulting in uneven tyre wear, shorter tyre lifespan, and poor traction. This can be especially dangerous in bad weather conditions.

Misaligned wheels put strain on suspension components, steering systems, and wheel bearings, potentially resulting in premature wear or failure. Addressing alignment issues can help extend the life of your tyres and restore your vehicle’s stability, efficiency, and overall road safety.

Non-Fault Accident Inspection and Repairs by Caversham Coachworks

Dealing with the aftermath of a non-fault accident is often overwhelming, but knowing your options can help you get back on the road safely. If you’ve been in an accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t wait to address the damages, regardless of how minor the damages seem to be. Acting quickly to arrange necessary repairs ensures you keep your vehicle safe and reliable while protecting your rights during the claims process.

At Caversham Coachworks, we prioritise getting you back on the road quickly and safely. With years of experience handling insurance claims and paperwork, we make the process as seamless as possible. Whether you drive a hybrid, EV, or traditional petrol and diesel car, our advanced facilities in Caversham and Abingdon can handle all types of vehicles.

Contact us today or use our free and easy estimator tool.