NORTH HAMPTON, N.H., September 25, 2026 -- Data from the collision repair industry shows that nearly 70% of repairable vehicle estimates now include a diagnostic scan, up sharply from prior years, as more vehicles carry embedded electronics tied to steering, safety, and drivetrain systems. Committed Collision & Auto Body Center is highlighting what that trend means for local drivers: a collision can damage mechanical systems that never show up on a painted panel. This makes auto mechanical diagnostics vital.

Why Are More Collision Estimates Including Diagnostic Scans?

The increase reflects how much modern vehicles have changed. CCC Intelligent Solutions data show that almost 70% of repairable appraisals included a diagnostic scan in 2025, up from just 3.3% in 2017, as manufacturers add more sensors and electronic modules to steering, safety, and powertrain systems. A scan reads stored fault codes that a visual walk-around cannot detect, giving technicians a starting point before a physical inspection begins.

What Mechanical Systems Can a Collision Affect Beyond the Body?

Steering components, engine and transmission mounts, cooling lines, exhaust parts, and wheel alignment can all sustain damage in a collision, even when the body panels show no sign of impact. A shifted engine mount, for example, often does not surface until a vehicle develops a vibration at idle days or weeks later. Suspension components, including tie rods and control arms, can also be affected, making car suspension repair and wheel alignment common follow-up needs after a crash.’

"A car can look completely undamaged after a collision and still have a bent tie rod or a cracked engine mount underneath," said Derek Lighthall, owner of Committed Collision & Auto Body Center. "That's why a diagnostic scan and a road test matter as much as the visual estimate."

How Does Auto Mechanical Repair Differ From General Auto Repair After a Collision?

General auto repair typically follows a routine maintenance schedule based on mileage or time, covering services such as oil changes and tire rotations. Auto mechanical repair after a collision follows a different path: it starts with a specific impact event rather than a scheduled interval, and relies on auto mechanical diagnostics, including OBD-II scans, raised inspections, and road tests, to confirm which systems were affected. The company works closely with Automotive Alignments & Calibrations LLC to provide auto mechanical repair in North Hampton, NH, once a scan or inspection identifies damage beyond the body.

"We start every estimate with a visual inspection, but we also work closely with Automotive Alignments & Calibrations LLC so alignment, suspension, and other mechanical systems get checked properly," Lighthall said. "That combination protects both the customer's safety and the vehicle's value."

How Can North Hampton Drivers Schedule a Post-Collision Mechanical Inspection?

Vehicle owners who notice a pull, vibration, or dashboard warning light after a collision are encouraged to have a trusted car mechanic perform a full diagnostic scan and road test before assuming repairs are complete. The shop offers free estimates and can be reached at (603) 926-1900 or info@committedcollision.com to schedule an inspection.

About Committed Collision & Auto Body Center

Committed Collision & Auto Body Center is a family-owned, I-CAR Gold Class collision repair shop serving North Hampton, NH, and the Seacoast region since 2005. The company provides auto body repair, collision repair, and paint and finish restoration, and works closely with Automotive Alignments & Calibrations LLC for mechanical repair, ADAS calibration, and towing services. More information is available at committedcollision.com.

Media Contact:

Derek Lighthall,

Owner, Committed Collision & Auto Body Center

203 Lafayette Road

North Hampton, NH 03862

Phone: (603) 926-1900

Email: info@committedcollision.com

Website: https://committedcollision.com/

Contact Information:

Committed Collision & Auto Body Center

203 Lafayette Road
North Hampton, NH 03862
United States

Derek Lighthall
(603) 926-1900
https://committedcollision.com/