What is the method used to measure frame damage?

The method of using a tape measure to assess frame damage is effective because it allows for precise measurements of the vehicle's structural components. By measuring key points on the frame, an appraiser can determine if the frame has been bent or misaligned due to an impact. This technique is straightforward, cost-effective, and provides clarity in identifying discrepancies in frame dimensions compared to the manufacturer's specifications.

While visual inspection can provide initial insights into frame damage, it does not offer the quantitative data that measuring with a tape can. Laser measurement tools may provide even higher accuracy, but they require more advanced technology and can be more expensive and time-consuming to implement. Computer diagnostics are generally more applicable to assessing damage to electronic systems and may not directly measure physical frame alignment. Thus, the tape measure stands out as a practical and widely used method for evaluating frame integrity in automotive repair and appraisal.