Steph Terry • September 25, 2023

The Types of Car Damage

Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving behind a trail of damage. From minor scrapes to major structural issues, understanding the types of car damage is essential for both car owners and drivers.


Whether it's a minor fender bender or a severe collision, knowing about these damages can help you find the best collision center. From exterior to structural damages, we'll delve into the various types of car damage that can stem from an accident. 


1. Exterior Damage 

One of the most common types of car damage is exterior deterioration (impairments to the vehicle’s outer shell). Surface-level dents, scratches, and paint chips are examples of minor exterior damage, often caused by low-speed collisions or minor impacts.


While these issues may seem purely cosmetic, they can still affect the overall appearance and value of your car. On the other hand, severe accidents can result in crumpled panels, broken lights, and even shattered windows. This damage can impact your vehicle’s aesthetics while compromising its safety and functionality. 


2. Structural Damage 

Beyond the surface, car accidents can damage the vehicle's structure and frame. This scenario is particularly concerning, as structural damage isn’t often visible to the naked eye. This type of damage can compromise the car’s structural integrity, inhibiting its alignment, handling, and overall stability. Even seemingly minor accidents can result in bent frames or misaligned components, which can have long-term implications for your car's performance and safety. 


3. Mechanical Damage 

Car accidents can also cause mechanical damage, affecting the various systems that keep your vehicle running smoothly. From the engine and transmission to the suspension and brakes, a collision’s impact can disrupt many of these critical components.


Furthermore, damaged components could result in fluid leaks, engine misfires, braking responsiveness, and steering issues. Ignoring mechanical damage can lead to further complications down the road, impacting both the safety and reliability of your vehicle. 


4. Airbag Deployment and Safety Systems 

Modern cars are equipped with advanced safety features, including airbags and sensors. When an accident occurs, these safety systems spring into action to reduce their passengers’ impact. 


However, while these systems are essential for minimizing injuries, their deployment can also damage a car’s interior. Additionally, these airbags need to be replaced following their deployment, and sensors may need recalibration. That’s why working with a collision center to ensure that all safety systems are in shape after an accident is crucial. 


5. Electrical System Damage 

Car accidents can also impact your vehicle’s electrical systems, leading to a range of issues that may not be immediately apparent. The force of a collision can disrupt the wiring, connectors, and sensors that contribute to various functions, such as lights, air conditioning, and even essential controls. Malfunctions in the electrical system can result in flickering lights, unresponsive dashboard indicators, or problems with the entertainment and navigation systems. 


Our Technicians can Address any Car Damage 

Car damage such as exterior dents and internal mechanical issues can stem from a fender bender. Promptly recognizing and addressing these damages is key to ensuring your vehicle’s safety, reliability, and value. So, finding and arranging professional collision repairs is essential to getting you and your loved ones back on the road. Remember, even seemingly minor damage should not be overlooked, as it can have far-reaching implications for your safety and performance. 


With an expert team like ours at Morrow Collision Center, your vehicle can be restored to its optimal condition. Our specialists can help you navigate any accident, coordinate any repairs, work with your insurance, and get back on the road. Contact us today to set up a repair and drop-off so you can get back to what you do best.  

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A salvage title can make a damaged vehicle look like an affordable repair project. But before you approve the work, it is important to understand why the vehicle received that title and what may be discovered once repairs begin. Damage from a previous collision is not always visible from the outside, and an initial estimate may not tell the whole story. At Morrow Collision Center , we want owners to make informed decisions about salvage title vehicle repair. That includes understanding the possible costs, the limits of an inspection, and why we cannot provide a warranty on repairs to salvage title vehicles. What a Salvage Title Means in Nebraska In Nebraska, a salvage title identifies a vehicle that meets the state’s salvage criteria following significant damage. A vehicle may also receive a salvage brand voluntarily. The title alerts future owners that the vehicle has a history they should investigate before buying or repairing it. After a salvage-titled vehicle is repaired, Nebraska requires an inspection before a title branded “Previously Salvaged” can be issued and the vehicle registered. The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles explains that this brand remains on subsequent titles. Hidden Damage Can Change the Repair Plan A vehicle’s visible damage may be only part of what needs attention. Once damaged panels are removed, a repair shop may find problems with underlying components, previous repairs, wiring, or areas that were difficult to inspect beforehand. The extent of that risk depends on the vehicle’s history and condition. These discoveries can change the scope and cost of a repair. If you are considering purchasing the vehicle, gather as much information as you can before making a commitment. Ask for its title and repair history, review available records, and arrange an independent inspection. Why Morrow Cannot Warranty Salvage Title Repairs Morrow Collision Center cannot provide a warranty on repairs to salvage title vehicles. A salvage title signals significant or otherwise documented prior damage, and the vehicle’s full repair history may be incomplete. Previous damage or repairs outside the current job can affect how the vehicle performs later. That limitation is worth discussing before authorizing any work. Ask which repairs are being considered, what the shop can assess at that stage, and what could cause the plan or estimate to change. Understanding the scope helps you weigh the repair against the vehicle’s condition and value without assuming that a new repair resolves every issue in its history. Questions to Ask Before Approving Repairs Bring the title and any estimates, photos, or records of past repairs you have. Then ask: What damage is visible now, and what areas have not yet been inspected? Could additional damage be found after disassembly? How will a change in repair scope be communicated and approved? What is included in the proposed work? What are the warranty terms for this salvage title vehicle? If you have not purchased the vehicle yet, consider the potential for additional repairs alongside the asking price. A lower purchase price does not necessarily mean a lower total cost. Frequently Asked Questions Can a salvage title vehicle be repaired in Nebraska? Yes, a salvage title vehicle can be repaired in Nebraska. To obtain a “Previously Salvaged” title and register it, the owner must complete the state’s required title and inspection steps. Does a Nebraska salvage inspection guarantee the vehicle is safe? No, the required title inspection should not be treated as a comprehensive safety guarantee. Have a qualified professional evaluate the vehicle’s condition and any concerns about previous damage. Can Morrow Collision Center warranty repairs on a salvage title vehicle? No, Morrow Collision Center cannot warranty repairs on salvage title vehicles. Prior damage and an incomplete repair history can leave issues outside the scope of the current work. Should I get an estimate before buying a salvage title vehicle? Yes, getting an inspection and discussing potential repairs before buying can help you understand the costs. An initial estimate may change if additional damage is discovered during repair. Talk With Morrow Before You Commit Every salvage title vehicle has a different history. If you are considering repairs, start with a clear conversation about the damage, the proposed work, and the limits of what can be known before disassembly. Contact Morrow Collision Center to discuss your vehicle with a collision repair shop in Lincoln, NE, before you decide on the next step.