Is It a Problem If the Car Chassis Gets Scraped?
3 Answers
Minor scrapes are usually not a problem. Here are some methods to prevent damage to the car chassis: 1. Apply Chassis Armor: After applying chassis armor, a durable and elastic protective layer forms on the treated area. This not only prevents damage from flying stones and gravel but also protects against moisture, acid rain, and salt corrosion, preventing rust on the chassis. 2. Install an Engine Guard: Engine guards are custom-designed protective devices for various car models. Their primary purpose is to prevent mud from covering the engine and to protect it from impacts caused by uneven road surfaces during driving, thereby avoiding engine damage. 3. Drive Carefully: First, the owner should be aware of their vehicle's ground clearance and assess whether the road is passable. Additionally, developing good driving habits is essential. When driving on rough or complex terrains, avoid high speeds to minimize the risk of scraping the chassis, which could lead to damage to chassis components.
Last time my car scraped the undercarriage when going over a pothole, and when I squatted down to check, I found a dent in the engine guard plate. A friend who has been repairing cars for ten years taught me to immediately inspect three areas: whether there are cracks in the transmission oil pan, if the exhaust pipe joints are deformed, and if the suspension rods are bent. The worst-case scenario is hitting the oil pan—if the engine oil leaks out, the engine is done for. If you continue driving, pay attention to any unusual noises from the undercarriage, smell for gasoline, and watch the dashboard for warning lights. It’s best to get a full inspection with a lift—don’t hesitate over the hundred-dollar inspection fee, since engine repairs can cost tens of thousands.
The severity of chassis scrapes depends on the location and impact. Last week, my neighbor's car bottomed out, causing the tie rod to deform and the steering wheel to shake violently. Common vulnerable parts include: the oil pan as thin as a soda can, the protruding exhaust pipe tip prone to denting, and the most dangerous being brake fluid line ruptures. Scratches on skid plates are normal, but if there's oil leakage, pulling to one side, or abnormal noises, stop driving immediately. Experienced drivers often carry a flashlight to inspect under the car after an incident, focusing on whether the suspension ball joint rubber boots are cracked. For long-distance trips, installing a metal skid plate is recommended, and develop the habit of crossing speed bumps at an angle.
