Frame & Unibody Repair in Fargo, Moorhead, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding areas
Hours
Monday – Thursday 8:00am – 5:30pm
Friday 8:00am – 12:00pm
Restoring Your Vehicle’s Structural Integrity
Your Vehicle’s Safety Is On The Line After a Collision
Has your vehicle been in an accident that left you worried about its structural integrity? That sickening crunch of metal wasn’t just damaging your car’s appearance – it potentially compromised the very foundation that keeps you and your family safe on the road.
Every day you drive a vehicle with unrepaired frame damage, you’re gambling with:
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Your family’s safety in the event of another collision – Frame damage compromises the engineered crumple zones and impact absorption systems designed to protect occupants. What might be a minor fender bender in a structurally sound vehicle could result in catastrophic failure in a compromised frame.
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Progressive mechanical failures as systems fall out of alignment – Your vehicle’s frame serves as the foundation for all mechanical components. When the frame is bent or twisted, it creates a cascade of alignment issues affecting your steering, suspension, drivetrain, and more. These components begin to wear unevenly and prematurely, leading to costly repairs down the road.
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Rapidly declining vehicle value and performance – Frame damage significantly reduces your vehicle’s resale value, often by thousands of dollars. Modern vehicle history reports flag frame repairs, and potential buyers are rightfully cautious about purchasing vehicles with structural damage history.
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Unpredictable handling that worsens over time – As your vehicle’s frame continues to settle and shift following damage, handling characteristics become increasingly unpredictable. What starts as a slight pull to one side can develop into dangerous steering and stability issues, particularly during emergency maneuvers or adverse weather conditions.
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Insurance complications if damage is discovered later – Undisclosed or unrepaired frame damage discovered after a subsequent accident can lead to denied claims and coverage disputes. Insurance companies may argue that pre-existing frame damage contributed to injuries or additional damage.
The aftermath of an accident is overwhelming enough without wondering if hidden structural damage is lurking beneath the surface. Most repair shops lack the specialized equipment and certified technicians needed to properly diagnose and repair frame damage – leaving you vulnerable to incomplete repairs that might look fine but fail when you need protection most.
Why Frame & Unibody Repairs Require Specialized Expertise
Modern vehicles are engineering marvels designed with precise structural components that work together to protect occupants during collisions. When these components are compromised, the entire safety system is at risk.
Our ASE-certified technicians at Matt’s Automotive Service Center understand the critical differences between:
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Traditional frame repairs for body-on-frame vehicles – Pickup trucks, large SUVs, and some commercial vehicles utilize separate frame construction that requires specific repair techniques. Our technicians are trained in cold-pulling and heat-assisted straightening methods that preserve the frame’s metallurgical properties while restoring proper alignment.
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Modern unibody structural restoration techniques – Most passenger vehicles today use unibody construction where the frame and body are integrated. These complex structures contain high-strength steel components, engineered crumple zones, and precise mounting points that must be restored to exact specifications to maintain safety integrity.
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Manufacturer-specific repair protocols for different vehicle types – Each automaker designs their structural systems differently, with specific repair procedures that must be followed. Our technicians receive ongoing training in manufacturer-specific repair protocols to ensure every vehicle is repaired according to factory standards.
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High-strength steel and aluminum repair requirements – Modern vehicles incorporate advanced materials that require specialized handling. High-strength steel cannot be heated or bent using traditional methods without compromising its integrity, while aluminum components demand completely different repair approaches to prevent galvanic corrosion.
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Computerized measuring and alignment specifications – Today’s vehicles have zero tolerance for frame misalignment. Even minor deviations can affect everything from electronic driver assistance systems to airbag deployment timing. Our computerized measuring systems ensure every repair meets exact factory specifications.
Unlike general repair shops that might eyeball alignments or use outdated repair methods, our facility utilizes state-of-the-art laser measuring systems that detect misalignments down to the millimeter. This precision isn’t just about perfectionism – it’s about ensuring your vehicle’s crumple zones, airbag timing, and safety systems will function correctly if you ever need them again.
The Matt’s Automotive Difference: Precision Frame Repair You Can Trust
When you choose our Fargo-Moorhead frame repair specialists, you’re not just getting a fix – you’re getting complete restoration of your vehicle’s structural integrity and peace of mind that lasts long after you drive away.
Our comprehensive frame and unibody repair process includes:
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Computerized Diagnostic Assessment: Our laser measuring system creates a 3D model of your vehicle’s frame to identify every point of damage – even issues invisible to the naked eye. This technology allows us to document the exact condition of your vehicle’s structure before any work begins, creating a precise roadmap for restoration. By comparing your vehicle’s measurements against factory specifications, we can identify deviations as small as 1mm that could affect safety and performance.
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Certified Technician Expertise: Our specialists undergo continuous training on the latest repair techniques for all vehicle makes and models. Frame repair is as much art as science, requiring an understanding of how metal behaves under stress and how to gradually restore it without creating new stress points. Our technicians average over 15 years of experience specifically in structural repairs.
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Manufacturer-Specific Repairs: We follow factory specifications and procedures to ensure your vehicle meets or exceeds original safety standards. This includes accessing proprietary repair databases, using manufacturer-approved equipment, and following step-by-step procedures developed by automotive engineers. We never take shortcuts that could compromise your vehicle’s structural integrity.
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Advanced Hydraulic Straightening Equipment: Our precision pulling systems apply controlled force exactly where needed to restore your frame to factory specifications. Unlike outdated chain-and-winch methods, our computer-controlled hydraulic systems allow for precise, gradual correction that prevents metal fatigue and maintains the engineered strength of your vehicle’s structure.
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Comprehensive Documentation: We provide detailed before-and-after measurements and repair documentation for insurance and resale purposes. This documentation serves as proof that repairs were completed to manufacturer specifications, which can be invaluable for insurance claims, warranty coverage, and when selling your vehicle.
One recent customer arrived frustrated after two other shops claimed their vehicle was repaired, yet it still pulled to the right and wore through tires prematurely. Our diagnostic assessment revealed frame misalignment of just 8mm – enough to cause ongoing issues but small enough that other shops missed it. After our precision repair, they reported the vehicle “drives like new again” for the first time since their accident.
Take Action Now: Schedule Your Free Frame Inspection Today
Don’t gamble with your vehicle’s structural integrity or your family’s safety. The longer frame damage goes unaddressed, the more complex and costly repairs become – and the longer you’re driving a compromised vehicle.
Call our Fargo-Moorhead frame repair specialists today at (701) 356-2988 to schedule your free, no-obligation frame inspection and consultation. Our transparent process includes:Comprehensive digital frame measurement and assessment
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Clear explanation of all damage found with visual documentation
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Detailed repair plan with timeline and cost estimates
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Assistance with insurance documentation and claims
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Written warranty on all structural repairs performed
We understand the stress and uncertainty that comes after an accident. That’s why we’ve streamlined our process to minimize your vehicle’s downtime while maximizing repair quality. Many repairs can be completed in 3-5 business days, and we offer courtesy vehicles to keep your life running smoothly during repairs.
Don’t wait until minor frame issues become major safety concerns. Contact Matt’s Automotive Service Center today and drive with confidence tomorrow
Frequently Asked Questions About Frame & Unibody Repair
How can I tell if my vehicle has frame damage after an accident?
Warning signs include uneven tire wear, doors that don’t close properly, unusual noises when driving over bumps, and the vehicle pulling to one side. However, the most dangerous frame damage often remains invisible without professional measuring equipment, which is why we recommend a professional inspection after any significant collision.
Will my insurance cover frame repair costs?
Most comprehensive and collision insurance policies cover frame repairs resulting from covered accidents, though coverage amounts vary by policy. Our service advisors work directly with all major insurance companies and can help navigate the claims process, providing the detailed documentation adjusters require for approval.
How long does a typical frame repair take to complete?
Most straightforward frame repairs can be completed within 3-5 business days, while more complex structural damage may require 7-10 days for proper restoration. We provide detailed timelines during your initial consultation and offer courtesy vehicles to minimize disruption to your daily routine during repairs.
Can a bent frame be completely restored to factory specifications?
Modern frame straightening equipment can restore most frames to within manufacturer specifications, especially when performed by certified technicians using computerized measuring systems. Our hydraulic straightening equipment applies precise force to gradually return the frame to its original dimensions without compromising structural integrity.
How do I know if the repair was done correctly if I can't see inside the frame?
We provide before-and-after computer measurement reports showing the exact specifications of your vehicle’s frame compared to factory standards. Additionally, all our structural repairs include a written warranty and post-repair road test to verify proper handling, alignment, and performance has been restored.
