Should the car be inspected after bottoming out?
2 Answers
After the car bottoms out, it needs to be inspected. Bottoming out can cause: All components on the car's chassis may be damaged. The most common parts include the radiator frame, engine oil pan, transmission oil pan, control arm, stabilizer bar, etc. The closer the components are to the front, the higher the probability of damage. Hazards of bottoming out: Exhaust pipe rupture, control arm deformation, brake fluid pipe leakage, oil pan rupture. An engine guard plate can protect the engine from road debris impacts and foreign object scratches. For models without this guard plate, adding one is recommended, with options including metal, plastic, resin, etc.
After scraping the car's undercarriage, it's essential to get it checked – I speak from personal experience. Last time I was driving on a dirt road, the chassis made a loud clunk when it hit a rock. I didn't pay much attention and kept driving, only to find a huge oil leak the next day. The repair cost me nearly two thousand yuan because the oil pan had cracked. If left unchecked, hidden issues like damaged fuel lines, deformed exhaust systems, or compromised brake lines can lead to bigger troubles. Driving safety should always come first, especially since an unstable chassis at high speeds can be risky. My advice is to visit a professional repair shop as soon as possible after scraping the undercarriage. Have them inspect the overall condition of the chassis using a lift, including the skid plates, suspension, and oil pan areas. Early detection and timely repairs will give you peace of mind.
