How to Determine if the Chassis is Scratched?
2 Answers
You can directly use a lift to raise the car and inspect the chassis for any scratches or deformations, which will help determine if the chassis has been scratched. Hazards of chassis scratches: If the transmission oil pan or engine oil pan is scraped, it may cause oil leaks; oil leaks from the engine or transmission can prevent them from functioning properly. If the exhaust pipe is severely deformed after being scraped, it needs to be repaired as it can affect exhaust flow. If the vehicle's floorboard is scraped, the damaged underbody panels and rust-proof coatings should be repaired. If the rust-proof coating is broken, prolonged exposure can lead to rusting of the vehicle body. Chassis maintenance methods: Apply chassis armor. Automotive chassis armor can be sprayed on exposed areas such as the vehicle's chassis, wheel hubs, fuel tank, lower body panels, and luggage compartment. It quickly dries to form a tough, elastic protective layer that not only prevents impacts from flying stones and gravel but also protects against moisture, acid rain, and salt corrosion, preventing rust and ensuring driving safety. Install an engine guard. The engine guard is a custom-designed protective device for various vehicle models, primarily aimed at preventing mud from covering the engine and protecting it from impacts caused by uneven road surfaces during driving, which could damage the engine. Not all vehicle models come with this feature, so owners without it can choose to install one.
I remember that if I hear a clunking sound while driving, especially after going over potholes, it might indicate undercarriage scraping. I would find a ramp or ditch to park the car on, then crouch down to check the underside for scratches or damage. Oil stains or exposed metal are more visible under lighting. Once, I neglected a minor scrape, which eventually led to a fuel tank leak and cost a fortune to repair. I recommend regular inspections, especially after driving in rural areas, as untreated scrapes can corrode components and pose major safety risks. Nowadays, I use my phone to record video to help inspect blind spots—simple yet effective.
