Will hitting the undercarriage cause any problems?
3 Answers
If the car hits the undercarriage but shows no issues, there is no need to worry. The details are as follows: During the design phase, the undercarriage is built to withstand certain impacts. If the undercarriage is hit, drive the car to a repair shop for a thorough inspection. If the pipes are undamaged and only the steel plate is scratched, applying some paint to prevent rust will suffice. Methods to protect the car undercarriage: 1. Apply undercarriage coating: The undercarriage coating can be sprayed on exposed areas such as the vehicle's undercarriage, wheel hubs, and fuel tank. It quickly dries to form a durable elastic protective layer, which not only prevents damage from flying stones and gravel but also shields against moisture, acid rain, and salt erosion, preventing rust and corrosion. 2. Install an engine guard: The engine guard is a custom-designed protective device for different car models, primarily to prevent mud from covering the engine and to protect it from impacts caused by uneven road surfaces that could lead to engine damage. Not all car models come with this guard, so owners without one can choose to install it.
I've experienced several instances of scraping the undercarriage, initially thinking it was no big deal, only to discover serious issues later. Once, while driving on a rural road, the undercarriage hit a rock during a bumpy ride. I didn't pay attention and drove off, only to find the car idling unevenly a few days later. A check at the repair shop revealed a deformed exhaust pipe—fortunately, it was caught in time to prevent an accident. Undercarriage impacts can range from minor to severe: light ones might only scratch the paint or damage the protective layer; serious ones can harm the fuel tank, oil pan, or suspension system, leading to oil leaks, power loss, or even loss of control. After every impact, I recommend stopping to check underneath the car for fluid leaks or obvious deformations. Unusual noises should never be ignored. Long-term neglect can corrode the undercarriage and shorten its lifespan, especially in rainy or slippery conditions, making it even more dangerous. New cars with undercarriage armor offer some protection, but older vehicles require extra caution. Develop a habit of regularly inspecting the undercarriage—safety first, never take it lightly.
In the auto industry where we deal with cars year-round, scraping the undercarriage depends on the situation. Minor bumps usually aren't a big deal, at most causing scratches to the undercoating without affecting driving. However, if the impact is strong enough to hit critical components like the oil pan or exhaust pipe, it could lead to immediate oil leaks or exhaust blockage. Continuing to drive in such conditions may cause engine overheating or even fire. Many car owners ignore this until an accident occurs. After any impact, it's advisable to turn off the engine immediately and inspect the underside with a phone flashlight. If you spot oil stains or deformation, head straight to a repair shop without delay. Damage to suspension components can make the car unstable and increase driving risks. For safety, consider SUVs with higher ground clearance when choosing a car to avoid frequent scrapes, and always steer clear of rough roads. Developing this habit can save you from costly major repairs.
