If you are involved in a minor fender-bender that isn't your fault, you may be tempted to collect the insurance money and use it on something other than auto body repairs. Or you and the other driver may decide not to contact the insurers or repair shops to make sure your rates don't change. However, even if your car is running fine, you should still take it into the shop.

Here are three reasons why taking your car into the shop will be better for you in the long run.

1. Your vehicle could have unseen damage that could affect steering.

When you make the choice to have a professional, like Wasatch Body Shop, Inc., repair your vehicle after you have been involved in a collision, you will be able to address any unseen damage your vehicle might have sustained. Cars are meticulously designed to ensure that each part fits perfectly together. Bumping these parts during an accident could cause alignment issues. Tire rods and joints are easy targets in small accidents and can cause your car to move awkwardly. Your tires may also start wearing down unevenly more quickly due to unseen damage, so you should take your car in to at least have the tires rotated.

2. Your vehicle could begin to rust if you don't address minor body issues after an accident.

When your vehicle is involved in an accident, the clear coating that covers the exterior paint can be compromised. Scratches to the underlying paint will reveal bare metal, leaving your vehicle susceptible to rust damage in the future. Corrosion caused by rust can weaken the integrity of your car's frame, making it less safe to drive over time. By having minor body damage repaired and repainted by a professional after involvement in a minor accident, you can help to prevent rust from plaguing your vehicle.

3. Your vehicle's frame could have sustained damage during the collision.

The frame of your vehicle is designed to help keep you safe in the event of an accident. Minor collisions can damage or weaken the frame, making it less likely to protect you from serious injury in future accidents. Even when there doesn't appear to be any external damage after a minor fender-bender, you should have a professional auto body specialist check your vehicle's undercarriage for warping or fractures.

Understanding the important role that auto body repair can play in keeping your vehicle safe to drive in the future will allow you to more fully recognize the importance of seeking professional repair services after a minor collision.