What Does Structural Damage on CARFAX Mean?

If you purchase a pre-owned car and it discloses structural damage on CARFAX report documents, what does that indicate? What exactly is structural damage, and should you be concerned that your vehicle is unsafe to drive? Don’t worry — we here at Sunroad Collision Center are happy to answer all your questions regarding structural damage and repair.

What Is Structural Damage on CARFAX?

“Structural damage” is defined as any damage which affects a vehicle’s chassis or underlying structure, such as a unibody frame. Essentially, structural damage runs deeper than mere car panel damage, affecting the car’s skeleton.

How Bad Is Structural Damage?

All assessments are case-by-case. Structural damage can vary from a bent bumper mount to having parts of the frame cracked. Your CARFAX Vehicle History Report contains a record of any structural repair work done after an accident. If you’re concerned about the repair and want some reassurance, feel free to bring your vehicle in and we’ll have a look at it for you.

Will a Car with Structural Damage Repair Function Properly?

If the repairs are completed correctly, you can rest assured that your vehicle is perfectly safe to drive and should not handle any differently than before the accident. Generally, structural repairs involve replacing core components of a vehicle’s “backbone” — something we take very seriously.

What if I Suspect My Car’s Structural Damage Wasn’t Repaired Correctly?

If your vehicle produces strange noises when going over bumps, has poor alignment, rattling bumpers, or any other telltale signs of improper repair work, bring it into our service center and our technicians will get right to work. There’s nothing worse than not feeling safe behind the wheel, and we’ll work tirelessly to ensure your vehicle functions as intended.

Address Structural Damage Today at Sunroad Collision Center

If your new-to-you vehicle needs a pick-me-up, we can help. Schedule an appointment at our service center in San Diego, CA today to ensure your car runs its best for miles to come!