Which of the following is a common symptom of a structural issue in a vehicle?

• A. Inconsistent door alignment
• B. New paint smell
• C. Engine noise
• D. Dashboard warning lights

Answer: (A)

Inconsistent door alignment is a common symptom of a structural issue in a vehicle. When the structural integrity of a car is compromised, it can lead to misalignments in various parts of the vehicle, including the doors. This misalignment can occur after an impact or collision, where the frame or unitized body structure may have been bent or distorted. As a result, doors may not close properly, may be difficult to open, or may appear to sit unevenly with respect to the vehicle's body. Observing this symptom indicates that further investigation is needed to assess the vehicle’s structure and determine if repairs are necessary to restore its safety and functionality.

The other options—new paint smell, engine noise, and dashboard warning lights—are not typically related to structural issues. The smell of new paint may indicate recent bodywork but doesn't indicate structural problems. Engine noise usually pertains to mechanical issues with the engine rather than the vehicle's structure, and dashboard warning lights could signal a range of electrical or mechanical failures instead of structural integrity concerns. Hence, they do not directly suggest issues with the overall framework of the vehicle.