Expert: Mark Haben - 6/19/2007

Question
My Nissan ALtima 2003 was hit broad side by a semi.  Damage was done to the driver's side from mirror to gas tank. When doors were taken off it was determined the frame was bent as well. The front door would not close.Repair shop was going to replace frame for around $8500 or total car.  Adjuster told them to size the frame to the original spec and see if the door would close.  This was successful and that is the way it is going to be left. But now I am uncomfortable with this solution. My adjuster said I would not want to have the frame replaced. WHy? do they patch it? or replace the entire frame and why would that be so bad? Wouldn't the metal be weaker or off a little now that it was bent back? How safe would that be drive?  I don't want apatch job but I don't know enough about this to fight this solution.

Answer
Sue-
Sorry I am so slow to reply. I am afraid that the shop has not educated you about the actual repairs the car needs. The contract is between you and the shop that is making the repairs- they should educate you about the construction of the car (in terms you can understand) and put you at ease with the methods they will use to put the car back in pre loss condition. Your car has no frame!!! It is of a unibody construction. I believe that what they are referring to when they mention the frame is the floor pan, rocker panel or other structural steel panels that make up the underbody of the car. It is not responsible for the shop to not educate you in the case of these significant repairs in my opinion. My advice is meet with the shop ASAP and ask them exactly what do they plan to do to fix the car- have them show you the damage physically. You will be much better off. Good Luck- Mark