Chassis Evaluation Checklist for Accident Vehicles

Chassis Evaluation Checklist for Accident Vehicles

When servicing load bearing or wheel supporting components on accident vehicles, damages to the suspension could remain undiscovered. These undiscovered damages may lead to heavy damages during continued vehicle operation. Therefore, on accident vehicles, the listed components must be checked in the described manner and sequence, independent of performing a vehicle alignment. If no deviations from the specified values were determined during vehicle alignment, no deformations of the suspension are present.

Visual and Functional Check of the Steering System

• Visually check for deformations and cracks

• Check for play in the tie rod joints and steering gear

• Visually check for damaged dust and/or grease boots

• Check electric wires and hydraulic lines and hoses for chafe marks, cuts and kinks

• Check the hydraulic lines, bolted connections and steering gear for leaks

• Check the steering gear and lines for proper seating

• Check for proper function through the entire steering angle by turning the steering wheel from stop to stop. Steering wheel must turn smooth without hitching at equal force

Visual and Functional Check of the Suspension

• Observe the sequence of the following test steps!

• Check all components shown in the assembly overviews for deformation, cracks and other damages

• Replace damaged components

• Perform vehicle alignment on wheel alignment stand approved by VOLKSWAGEN AG

Visual and Functional Check of the Wheels and Tires

• Check for runout and imbalance.

• Check tires for cuts and impact damage in the tread and on the side walls.

• Check tire pressure; for tire pressure see tire pressure label on the fuel filler door.

If there are damages on the wheel and/or tire, the tire must be replaced. This also applies when the course of the accident and damage on the vehicle points to possible non visible damages.

Another determining factor is the age of the tires: Tires should not be older than 6 years.

In case of doubt, always proceed as follows:

• As soon as a safety risk cannot be ruled out, the tire(s) must be replaced.

Entire Vehicle

Also check other vehicle systems, for example:

• Brake system including the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)

• Exhaust system and passenger protection by visual and function checks

Test values, adjustment values and notes can be found in respective repair information.

Checking of accident vehicles described here, refers to the suspension and does not lay claim to completeness for the entire vehicle.

Electronic Vehicle Systems

Safety related systems such as: ABS/ Electronic Differential Lock (EDL); airbag systems; electronically controlled vehicle systems; electromechanical/electrohydraulic steering systems and other driver assistance systems must be checked using the vehicle diagnosis, testing and information system (VAS 5051) for stored malfunctions. Stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for the systems mentioned must be serviced according to specifications. When the service work is done, check the affected system again for the DTC memory to ensure function is established again.