Repairing Our Vehicle

If you've been in a car accident, your first concern will be your health. Your second concern will be the body damage to your car. Once your injuries are taken care of, and your car;s body damage has been repaired, you'll probably think that everything is back to normal. Unfortunately, that's not necessarily true. You might not realize this, but your car could start having mechanical problems following a car accident, even if it was cleared at the shop. Some mechanical problems won't show themselves for several weeks. That's why it's important that you pay attention to your car once you get it back on the road. Here are four steps you should take to identify potential mechanical problems after a car accident.

Have Your Battery Tested

During an accident, your car takes quite an impact. Part of that impact can damage your battery. In fact, it's not uncommon for batteries to lose their charge after a car accident. If you've been in a car accident, it's a good idea to have the battery tested. If it passes the charge test, wait a few weeks and then have it tested again. If it shows a significant decrease in the amount of charge it's carrying, you should have it replaced.

Watch for Warning Lights

Most newer model cars are controlled by a system of sensors and warning lights. Just about every operating system on your car has a dash board warning light. In some car accidents, the sensors can be seriously damaged. Unfortunately, you might not know that right away. To keep track of problems with your sensors, watch for warning lights on your dash board, especially the check engine light. If any of them illuminate during the first month after your accident, have them checked out by a mechanic, and notify your insurance company immediately.

Keep Track of Leaks

Depending on where you car was hit, your hoses could have been damaged in the accident. Small cracks and tears could have developed that you won't be aware of for a few weeks. For at least the first month after your car accident, keep track of the leaks under your car. If you see new leaks, have your mechanic take a look at your car. Again, be sure to contact your insurance company. It's also a good idea to pay attention to unusual sounds and smells for the first month after a car accident.

Head to the Shop

If you've been in a car accident, don't assume that the repairs to the body damage took care of all the issues. Watch your car for any of the signs described below. If you notice any of them, contact your insurance company, and then head to the repair shop as soon as possible.

Companies like Car And Truck Services Inc. can offer more advice.