Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents. In fact, rear-end collisions are the most common in Canada, making up 21.1% of all traffic collisions in 2021 according to the Canada National Collision Database.
Even at lower speeds, getting rear-ended can do a lot of damage. Knowing and understanding the kinds of damage (both visible and hidden) that can happen in a rear-end collision is important when you take your car in for vehicle safety inspections and repairs.
Our Ottawa body shop experts go over the 12 common types of damages caused by rear-end collisions, and why getting these damages repaired is necessary before your vehicle is road-worthy again.
Table of Contents
1. Damaged Bumper
Your rear bumper is going to take the brunt of the impact when you get rear-ended.
Its entire purpose is to absorb much of the force of vehicle crashes and protect the rest of your car. However, even a bump can dent, crack, or dislocate your rear bumper.
A damaged bumper looks bad and also compromises the safety and structural integrity of your car. A misaligned bumper probably won’t give you much protection in a future collision, either.
2. Exhaust System Damage
Your exhaust system runs along the underside of your vehicle, which is especially vulnerable when rear-end collision occurs.
A cracked or damaged exhaust will cause your engine to perform worse, belch out more emissions, and put you at risk of dangerous carbon monoxide leaks.
Signs of exhaust damage can be strange noises, a sudden drop in gas mileage, and exhaust smoke coming from under your car. If you think you have a cracked exhaust, get it looked at right away.
3. Wheel and Tire Issues
Rear-end collision damage oftentimes affects your wheels and tires, especially if the impact forces your car into a curb or some other object.
Tires can get punctured, take on sidewall damage, or get misaligned, which can cause you to drive with uneven wear and less traction.
Your wheels can also get bent or cracked, which makes driving unsafe. If you notice vibrations, pulling to one side, or reduced stability after getting in a rear-end accident, take your vehicle to a specialist.
4. Paint Scratches & Chips
Any collision can cause paint damage. Scratches and chips affect the appearance and resale value of your vehicle and can also expose the metal underneath, increasing the risk of rust. Over time, corrosion can even weaken your car’s structure.
Paint scratches and chips might seem cosmetic, but they can affect the longevity of your vehicle.
5. Suspension Issues
Your suspension keeps your ride smooth and stable by absorbing shocks and maintaining control. A rear-end collision can damage your shocks, struts, and control arms.
A damaged suspension can leave you with uneven tire wear, poor handling, and an unsteady ride.
It can also lead to more damage and make your vehicle unsafe to drive if you don’t get it fixed. If you’ve been rear-ended, have your suspension system professionally inspected.
6. Alignment Out of Whack
Rear-end collision damage can knock your vehicle’s alignment out of balance. Misalignment affects your car’s ability to drive straight. It can also cause uneven tire wear, increase your fuel use, and make your steering wheel difficult to handle.
If you find your car pulling to one side after being rear-ended, you might have a misalignment. An alignment check and adjustment should be a priority.
7. Broken Tail Lights
Tail lights, also known as brake lights, are usually one of the first things to go when you get into a rear-end collision.
Cracked or broken tail lights lower your visibility and are a safety hazard. It’s also illegal to drive without both brake lights and can get you fined.
8. Trunk Damage
Along with the bumper, there’s a good chance your trunk will take most of the rear-end collision damage. You could end up with just a minor dent, or it can cause a complete misalignment, making it impossible to open or close your trunk.
If your trunk no longer seals, water can get in and cause more damage. Trunk repairs after a rear-ender may mean realignment, replacing the locking mechanism, and even structural work.
9. Frame Damage
If you get rear-ended at a higher speed, your vehicle’s frame can get bent and weakened. Frame damage can compromise the structural integrity of your car, making it unsafe to drive.
It can also cause misalignment in your steering, suspension, drivetrain, exhaust system, and other systems. If you’re in a more serious rear-end accident, have your frame inspected by a professional before you drive anywhere.
10. Transmission/AWD Problems
Rear-end collision damage can seriously impact your transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD) system. These components rely on precise alignment and integration with the vehicle’s frame and suspension.
Even seemingly small accidents can cause problems and affect your car’s performance and handling. Not getting these issues fixed can result in more extensive damage and costly repairs over time.
11. Cracked Rear Windshield
A cracked or shattered rear windshield makes it more difficult to see what’s behind you. It’s also a structural issue.
Your vehicle’s rear windshield helps support your roof and maintain the overall rigidity of your car. Cracks in the rear windshield can weaken the vehicle’s structure.
12. Electrical Issues
Any collision can damage electrical wiring and components, but a rear-ender can especially damage those near your tail lights and bumper.
Damaged wiring can leave you with lights, turn signals, sensors, cameras, side mirrors that stop working. Modern vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are particularly sensitive to electrical damage, which can affect safety features like parking sensors or collision warnings.
A professional inspection is needed to find and repair electrical issues after a rear-end collision.
Why Timely Repairs Matter
A lot of the time, rear-end collision damage is not visible to the naked eye. Alignment, structural, and even electrical issues can make your car unsafe, and lead to more problems down the road.
If you’ve been rear-ended, your car might not be safe to drive. It might even cause you to get into another car accident.
At Bemac Auto Body Shop, we specialize in inspecting vehicles and repairing damage from rear-end collisions. Our experienced technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to assess and restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. From minor cosmetic fixes to major structural repairs, we handle it all with precision and care.
Get Your Vehicle Inspected Today
For over 60 years, Bemac Collision and Service has supported Ottawa drivers by offering the best quality craftsmanship and award-winning customer experience every time.
We will get to the bottom of whatever rear-end collision damage that’s been done to your car. Set up your appointment at one of our 7 auto body centres and collision repair locations.
