If you’ve been in a car accident, even a low-speed one, there’s a good chance your vehicle’s frame took some damage. It’s not always obvious. Your car might still drive fine, the bumper might look okay, and you may think it’s nothing to worry about. But here’s the thing—what’s happening under the surface is just as important as what you see on the outside.
At OHS Body Shop, we’ve been repairing vehicles in Montana for years, and we can tell you this: frame straightening isn’t just another box to check off in the repair process. It’s a critical step that directly affects how your car drives, how safe it is, and even how much it’s worth when you decide to sell it or trade it in. Let’s break down what frame straightening is, how it works, and why it matters more than most people realize.
What Is Frame Straightening?
Every car has a structure underneath that supports everything—your engine, suspension, doors, trunk, you name it. That structure is called the frame. Some vehicles have what’s known as a “unibody” frame, where the body and frame are integrated into one piece. Others, especially trucks and older cars, have a “body-on-frame” design. Either way, if that frame gets bent, twisted, or misaligned during a collision, your vehicle won’t be the same until it’s properly repaired.
Frame straightening is the process of using specialized equipment to return your vehicle’s frame to its original specifications. We use computerized measuring systems to pinpoint where the damage is and hydraulic machines to gently pull the frame back into place. It’s a highly technical process, and it requires skill, training, and the right tools. That’s why not all repair shops are equipped to do it right—but we are.
Why Is It So Important?
Imagine trying to build a house on a crooked foundation. Everything you put on top—walls, windows, doors—will be off. That’s exactly what happens with your car if the frame isn’t straight. You might notice your doors don’t shut properly, the wheels don’t align, or the car pulls to one side. But it’s the safety issues that concern us most.
Modern vehicles are designed to crumple in very specific ways during an accident. That’s how they protect you and your passengers. If your frame is out of shape, those safety systems may not work the way they’re supposed to. In some cases, airbags might not deploy at the right time, or at all. And in a worst-case scenario, the frame could collapse in a second collision—putting lives at risk.
Even if you’re not planning to drive the car long-term, frame damage that’s not properly repaired will hurt its resale value. Any savvy buyer—or their mechanic—will check the frame condition. If it’s not right, they’ll walk away or expect a deep discount.
How Do You Know If You Need Frame Straightening?
Some signs are obvious. If your car has visible structural damage—like the front or rear end crumpled in, or a door that won’t close—you probably already suspect something’s off. But some frame damage is sneaky. We’ve had customers come in thinking they just needed a bumper replaced, only to discover their frame was slightly twisted.
That’s why every collision repair we do at OHS starts with a full-body inspection. Our technicians use advanced frame measuring systems that detect even the tiniest misalignment. These aren’t guesses—they’re precise measurements compared to manufacturer specs. If your frame is even a fraction off, we’ll catch it.
What’s the Process Like?
Once we confirm that frame straightening is needed, we’ll explain everything to you up front—no surprises, no jargon. Your vehicle is placed on a frame machine, and we use computerized systems to apply controlled pressure and straighten the metal slowly and safely. After every adjustment, we re-measure. We don’t stop until everything matches the original specs down to the millimeter.
If replacement parts are needed—such as a damaged subframe or structural beam—we use OEM or certified parts to make sure everything fits and performs like it should. And once the frame is straight, we move on to the rest of the bodywork, like painting and panel replacement. But frame repair always comes first, because everything else depends on it.
Trust the Local Pros Who Know Montana Roads
Here in Montana, with our winding highways, rough winters, and wildlife crossings, collision repairs are just part of life. But that doesn’t mean you should settle for just “good enough.” At OHS Body Shop, we take pride in doing things right the first time. Our team is trained in the latest techniques, our equipment is top-of-the-line, and we never cut corners—especially when it comes to frame straightening.
Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Whether it’s a major crash or a minor accident, if there’s even a chance your frame has been affected, let us take a look. We’ll give you honest feedback, a clear estimate, and high-quality repair that gets you back on the road with confidence.
