Unfortunately, when it comes to damage from vehicle accidents, there’s often more than meets the eye. This is particularly true for small cars, like the Mini Cooper. If you’ve been in a serious crash, there’s a good chance your vehicle will need significant repairs. Beyond the obvious bodywork, there are some common problems that you’re likely to encounter.
Frame Damage
Certain parts of your Mini Cooper’s frame are known as “crumple zones.” They’re designed to easily crush upon impact and absorb some of the force. This lowers the chances that passengers will suffer serious injuries. If these parts of the frame aren’t repaired after a collision, it significantly increases the chances of a serious injury next time the vehicle is in an accident.
It’s also possible for your frame to bend, particularly when the collision is major. A bent frame that isn’t repaired right away will cause problems with your vehicle’s alignment. This makes your car move side-to-side while you’re driving, reducing your handling capabilities. It will also cause excessive tire wear and driveline problems.
Electrical Wiring Issues
Many Mini Coopers are equipped with advanced features like rear cameras and backup sensors. Even a minor collision can change their position, so this is a common issue any time a vehicle is involved in a rear-end collision. Other wires may have come loose, eventually leading to an array of issues. You may run into problems with your electronic windows and locks and anti-theft system.
Your check-engine, low-fuel, or other indicator lights may also come on. It’s difficult to know if this is due to a problem caused by the collision or if the impact knocked wires loose, creating a false alarm. A collision can also loosen the connectors to your battery, which may leave you stranded. In the worst-case scenario, wiring issues following a collision can lead to an electrical fire.
Fluid Leaks
It’s fairly common for a Mini Cooper’s tubes and hoses to crack or puncture during a major collision. This can cause important fluids, like your coolant, to leak. Most drivers don’t realize they have a leak until a few days after a collision. This could lead to problems like overheating and gasket failure. Your vehicle’s tubes may also become kinked, stopping the follow of fluids throughout your vehicle.
Sometimes, drivers will take their vehicles to an auto body repair shop, only to notice leaks a few days later. If this occurs, it’s important to bring the vehicle back right away. Failing to take care of this can lead to serious damage.
Trunk Damage
If your Mini Cooper was involved in a rear-end collision, there’s a good chance you could also have problems with your trunk. The impact may damage some of the trunk’s components or loosen the hinges, so you’ll want to ensure that it opens and closes properly. While this may not seem as serious as some of the other issues mentioned, it’s still a potential safety issue. The last thing you want is to have your trunk pop open while you’re cruising down the highway.
Your Mini Cooper Collision Repair Experts
Whether your Mini Cooper has been in a minor fender bender or a major collision, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic right away. Otherwise, you might be driving around with issues that you’re not aware of. You could end up with serious damage or even put yourself or your passengers in danger.
The pros at The Haus are here to help! We have convenient locations in both Sherman Oaks and Santa Monica. Contact us today to schedule your VIP appointment!