Frame Damage vs. Cosmetic Damage: What You Need to Know
The Differences Between Frame Damage and Cosmetic Damage
After a car accident, whether it’s a minor fender bender or something more serious, it can be hard to tell how much damage your vehicle has really suffered. Some issues are easy to spot, while others hide beneath the surface. However, there are essential differences between what is considered cosmetic damage and frame damage.
What is Cosmetic Damage?
Cosmetic damage refers to surface-level issues that affect how your car looks but not how it drives or protects you. Common examples of cosmetic damage include:
- Scratches and paint chips
- Dents in doors, fenders, or bumpers
- Cracked headlights or taillights
- Minor bumper damage
What is Frame Damage?
Frame damage is far more serious. Your vehicle’s frame is its structural backbone, designed to absorb impact and keep passengers safe. When the frame is compromised, your car may no longer perform as intended in another collision. Signs of frame damage include:
- Uneven gaps between doors or panels
- Doors, hood, or trunk that won’t close properly
- Vehicle pulling to one side while driving
- Uneven tire wear
- Visible bending or warping underneath the car
While cosmetic damage may seem “just visual,” it can still lower your vehicle’s value and lead to bigger problems over time—like rust or exposed components—if left unrepaired. Meanwhile, frame damage impacts safety and often requires specialized equipment and expert technicians. Even what appears to be only cosmetic damage can have hidden structural issues, which is why post-collision inspections are so important.
Contact Our Local Auto Body Shop for Auto Body Repair Estimates Today
You can’t always tell the severity of damage just by looking at your car. What appears to be a simple dent could mask underlying frame damage. If you’ve been in an accident, even a low-speed one, it’s best to have your vehicle checked by professionals who know what to look for. Working with a reputable local auto body shop ensures your vehicle gets a thorough inspection using modern diagnostic tools. If you’re in Winston-Salem, NC or Clemmons, NC, Ray's Body Shop provides the auto body repair and collision repair services you need. Contact our auto body shop today!
