What type of damage is most likely to require frame straightening?

Frame straightening is typically necessary after structural collisions because these types of incidents can cause significant distortions or damage to the vehicle's frame or unibody structure. When a vehicle is involved in a collision with enough force, it can bend or misalign the structural components designed to maintain the integrity of the vehicle during operation and provide safety to its occupants.

This type of damage often involves areas where critical alignment affects the vehicle's performance and safety, such as the suspension and steering components. If the frame or unibody is not restored to its original specifications, it can lead to misalignment issues, impaired handling, and increased risk of further damage or accidents down the line.

In contrast, minor scratches, panel dents, and paint defects usually affect only the outer surfaces of the vehicle and do not compromise the critical structural integrity required for safe operation. Therefore, these types of damage typically do not necessitate frame straightening procedures.