Scratch & Dent Motors straightens bent frames and unibody structures after collisions at our College Park, GA shop. The vehicle is measured at its structural reference points, compared with the manufacturer's dimensions, and pulled back into position so the panels, doors, suspension and wheel alignment line up the way they should.
Frame vs. unibody
Most pickups and many large SUVs are built body-on-frame: a separate steel frame with the body bolted on top. Most cars and crossovers use a unibody, where the body shell itself is the structure. Either one can bend in a collision, and either one can be straightened when the damage is within repairable limits.
Signs your frame or structure may be bent
- Doors, hood or trunk that no longer close smoothly or line up
- Uneven gaps between panels on one side
- The vehicle pulls to one side after an accident, even after an alignment
- Uneven tire wear that starts soon after a collision
- Creases or kinks in the metal under the car or inside the engine bay or trunk
How frame straightening works
- Measure. We measure the vehicle at its reference points and compare them with the manufacturer’s dimensions to see exactly where and how far the structure moved.
- Anchor and pull. The vehicle is anchored, and controlled pulls move the damaged area back toward its correct position.
- Re-measure. We measure again as we go until the structure is back within specification.
- Replace what cannot be straightened. Some structural parts are designed to be replaced rather than straightened once damaged. When that applies, we tell you.
Why it comes before bodywork
New panels hung on a crooked structure will never fit right, and the car will not drive right either. That is why structural work is always the first step in a collision repair, before panel repair and paint.
Questions about frame straightening
Can a bent frame be fixed?
In many cases, yes. If the damage is within repairable limits, the frame or unibody can be pulled back to specification. Some parts are meant to be replaced instead, and we will tell you when that applies.
How do I know if my frame is damaged?
Doors that do not line up, uneven panel gaps, pulling to one side and fast uneven tire wear after an accident are common signs. A measured inspection confirms it.
Is a car with frame damage safe to drive?
It depends on the damage. Bring it in or call us, and we will look before you put more miles on it.
Where we do frame straightening
All work is done at our shop at 502 85th Cir, College Park, GA 30349. Drivers bring their vehicles to us from Forest Park, Hapeville, Riverdale, College Park, Morrow, East Point, Jonesboro, Union City, Fairburn, Southwest Atlanta, South Fulton and Palmetto.