In structural repairs, what does the term "hidden damage" refer to?

The term "hidden damage" refers to damage that is not immediately evident during an inspection. This can occur in various contexts, such as after a collision or an incident that may not have caused visible exterior damage but could have affected crucial structural components, like the frame or unibody. Hidden damage is often found within the vehicle's structure, such as misalignment, stress fractures, or compromised integrity of the materials used in construction.

During repairs, it is critical to identify such hidden damage because it can lead to more significant issues if left unaddressed, potentially affecting the vehicle's safety and performance. This kind of damage usually requires further investigation, possibly including additional diagnostic tools or techniques such as x-rays or scans, to fully understand the extent of the damage.