Is it serious if the car chassis is damaged?
2 Answers
Whether it is serious if the car chassis is damaged depends on different situations: 1. It is serious if there is fluid leakage or deformation of mechanical parts; 2. It is not serious if there are minor scratches. The car chassis is composed of the transmission system, running system, steering system, and braking system. Its function is to support and install the car engine and its various components and assemblies, forming the overall shape of the car, and to receive the power generated by the engine to ensure normal driving when the car moves. Daily maintenance of the car chassis includes: 1. Proper adjustment of the front wheel toe-in; 2. Good lubrication and proper adjustment of the wheel hub bearings; 3. Pay attention to changes in the front and rear axles and the frame; 4. Check for any damage to the leaf springs; 5. Proper adjustment of the brake clearance; 6. Monitor the working condition of the clutch.
I just hit my car's undercarriage while driving on a bumpy road, and I'm quite worried because this could be a minor or major issue. I immediately stopped to inspect it. If the undercarriage is actually damaged, it might cause fluid leaks—for example, a punctured oil pan could lead to oil leakage, directly affecting engine lubrication. Alternatively, suspension components could deform, impacting driving stability. Last time I ignored a similar impact, rust spread and repair costs became much higher. If you hear unusual noises or see dashboard warnings, you must take it to a professional repair shop immediately. I usually avoid poor road conditions and recommend installing underbody protection plates to prevent scrapes. In short, don’t take undercarriage damage lightly—it protects your car's core components, and early inspection can prevent bigger problems.