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Frame

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FRAME?  "IS there actually a frame in a VW?"  Well, yes and no.  It is true that all types of VW's are "Unibody" construction.  "what is Unibody"

Description: The frame or unibody is the main structural piece of the vehicle. Though they provide similar functions, they have different designs and purposes. When combined with all the braking, steering and suspension systems, this is commonly referred to as the chassis, or undercarriage, of the vehicle.


Purpose: The frame or unibody provides the structural strength of the vehicle and also a location and mounting points for other systems that make the total chassis. The frame design is the oldest, made of steel and designed so that the body of the vehicle is mounted on top. The unibody, on the other hand, differs from the frame in that it is actually stamped out as part of the body structure. Also referred to sometimes as unitized construction, today's automobiles most commonly use the unibody design because its inherent ability to absorb energy during a collision. Most light trucks continue to use body-on-frame construction. Even though a car or light truck is usually built one way or the other, there are some vehicles that use a partial frame (sometimes called a sub-frame) along with unibody construction.

"But you haven't answered my question, does a VW have a frame?"  Well, the Pan is the frame for a VW. but NOT a frame in the strictest sense of the word.

You should inspection the frame of you VW on a regular basis.  Frame inspection is not on our list of Maintenance items since on every oil change or every time you get under your VW you should be looking at the body and frame for cracks and rust.  "The frame or unibody is not a separately serviceable item, so it does not require regular maintenance."  Do I agree with this statement, yes and no. Now you can not repair any damage or cracks without certain types of equipment (yes, it can be repaired but it is expensive and time consuming)  In any case your "frame" should be kept clean to prevent rust.  If you see rust developing or bare metal, just get a piece of sandpaper and sand down the area, gently push on the area to see if it is weakened.  If not then just get some spray paint (Rust-oleam or Krylon) or use Body undercoating that is available at any auto parts store. FOLLOW the Directions on the container!

When I say that a Unibody can be repaired, only minimal damage like cracks and small to medium rust spots can be repaired.  Do not think that you can repair a VW that has be Totaled in a wreck.  Unfortunately, it may not be able to be repaired.  That will depend on the location, severity, and depth of the damage.

You should periodically clean the undercarriage of the vehicle, especially in parts of the country where road salt is used.  You should also clean the underside of your VW if you go down any dirt roads, city streets, interstate highways.  "Hey, that's everywhere people drive" REALLY, well I guess that means you should clean the underside every time you wash the exterior of your VW.

"I wrecked my VW!"  Your should have the damage inspected immediately by a collision professional. Sometimes damage that appears to be merely cosmetic may wind up being more severe and affect your VW's structural integrity, which could impact your its safety. Such damage may also affect wheel alignment, since proper alignment relies on a frame or unibody that's within manufacturer's specifications.

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