What is Frame Straightening and Why is it Important? - Griffin Automotive Design

If you have been involved in a collision, your vehicle may have suffered some damage to its frame. The frame is the structural foundation of your vehicle that supports all its components and ensures its stability and performance. A bent or twisted frame can affect your vehicle’s alignment, handling, safety and appearance.

That’s why frame straightening is one of the most important services we offer at Griffin Automotive Design. Frame straightening is a process of restoring your vehicle’s frame back to its original shape and specifications using specialized equipment and techniques.

In this blog post, we will explain what frame straightening is, how it works, why it matters and why you should choose us for your auto body repair needs.

Don’t judge a book by its cover. Frame damage can be hidden and hard to spot. It can also occur in places that are not directly hit by the collision. That’s why it’s important to get a professional inspection and repair for your vehicle after an accident. Don’t risk your safety and performance with a damaged frame.

What is frame straightening?

Frame straightening is exactly as it sounds. It is a method of repairing any damage to your vehicle’s frame caused by a collision or other impact. The goal of frame straightening is to return your vehicle’s frame to its pre-accident condition so that it can function properly and safely.

The frame of your vehicle is like the spine of the human body. It holds everything together and makes it possible for you to run your errands. But if one or more parts are damaged, the entire frame could make your vehicle dangerous to drive. Frame straightening fixes any damage when that is possible.

There are two types of frames that vehicles can have: uni-body or Body on Frame. A uni-body frame means that the body panels and the structural components are welded together as one unit. A Body on Frame means that there is a separate metal structure that supports the body panels.

*Do you know the difference between body on frame and unibody?* *In this photo, you can see an example of a body on frame vehicle on the left and a unibody vehicle on the right.*

Depending on the type of frame your vehicle has, different methods of frame straightening may be used. For uni-body frames, we use a technique called pulling which involves applying controlled force to specific points on the body to realign them. For Body on Frame, we use a technique called cutting and welding which involves removing damaged sections of the metal and replacing them with new ones.

Some vehicles have a body on frame design, which means the body panels are attached to a separate metal frame. When the frame is damaged, it may require cutting out the affected sections and welding in new metal pieces. This is a complex and precise process that requires skilled technicians and specialized equipment. We have the expertise and tools to handle any frame repair for your vehicle.

How does frame straightening work?

Frame straightening involves several steps:

First, we inspect your vehicle thoroughly to assess the extent and location of the frame damage. We use computerized measuring systems that compare your vehicle’s frame dimensions with the manufacturer’s standards. This allows us to identify any deviations from normal alignment and plan our repair strategy accordingly.
We adjust these attachments according to our measurements and apply precise pressure until we achieve optimal results.
Next, we secure your vehicle on a frame machine that uses hydraulic force to pull and push the frame back into alignment. The frame machine has multiple clamps and chains that attach to different points on your vehicle’s body.
Then, we monitor the progress of the frame straightening using lasers or sensors that provide accurate feedback on the frame adjustments. We make sure that every part of your vehicle’s frame meets the factory specifications for accuracy and quality
Finally, we inspect your vehicle again to ensure that everything is in order and that no other repairs are needed. We also test drive your vehicle to verify its functionality and performance. We ensure your vehicle is ready to hit the road again with confidence and safety.

Why is frame straightening important?

The truck is driving sideways on the road, with its front and rear wheels pointing in different directions. This indicates that the truck may have a problem with its alignment or its frame. Both alignment and frame can be damaged by accidents, potholes, curbs or other impacts. If left untreated, they can cause poor handling, reduced performance, and increased wear and tear on the vehicle.

Frame straightening is important for several reasons:

It restores your vehicle’s structural integrity and stability. A damaged frame can compromise your vehicle’s ability to withstand further impacts and protect you and your passengers in case of an accident.
It improves your vehicle’s alignment and handling. A bent frame can cause your vehicle to pull to one side, steer unevenly, vibrate excessively, or wear out your tires faster. Frame straightening can correct these issues and enhance your driving experience.
It preserves your vehicle’s value and appearance. A twisted frame can affect your vehicle’s aesthetics and reduce its resale value. Frame straightening can restore your vehicle’s original shape and look.

Why choose us for frame straightening?

When you need collision repair and frame straightening, you want to trust the best. That’s why the Bonne Terre Police Department chose Griffin Automotive Design for their cruiser. Our Big Chief frame rack can handle any vehicle, from cars to trucks to SUVs. It uses advanced technology and precise measurements to restore your frame to its original condition. Our certified technicians have the skills and experience to fix any damage and make your vehicle look and drive like new. Whether you need a minor dent repair or a major overhaul, we can handle it. Don’t settle for less than the best. Choose Griffin Automotive Design for your collision repair and frame straightening needs.

At Griffin Automotive Design, we have years of experience in auto body repair and service. We have a state-of-the-art facility with some of the most advanced equipment on the market for collision repair. Our team of certified technicians are trained and skilled in handling all types of auto body work, including frame straightening.

We are committed to providing you with excellent customer service and satisfaction. We work with all insurance companies and offer free estimates for our services.

If you need frame straightening or any other auto body service, contact us today for more information. We look forward to serving you!