These are basically the structural backbone along the sides of your car's body. They're long pieces of metal, usually steel or aluminum, and they run along the length of the vehicle, underneath the floor. They’re designed to handle a lot of stress – everything from the weight of the car itself, to bumps in the road, and most importantly, crash energy. They aren’t just flat pieces though, they’re usually shaped with folds and reinforcements to make them strong and resistant to bending. Think of it like the skeleton of the car. The frame, if a vehicle has a separate frame, would be the main support, but in a unibody construction—which most modern cars use—the side members, along with other structural parts, are the frame. They tie everything together—the front and rear suspension, the engine mounts, the floor pan, even the roof supports—into one strong unit. They work with other unibody components, like the floor pan and roof rails, to distribute loads and maintain the vehicle's shape. These are seriously important for safety and handling. They're designed to absorb impact energy in a collision, protecting the passenger compartment. They act like a shield, directing forces away from where you are sitting. Beyond safety, they're crucial for maintaining proper alignment and handling. If a side member is bent or damaged, it throws everything off. You’ll notice if one is damaged because the car might pull to one side, handle poorly, or even have doors that don’t close properly. Even a small bend can make a big difference. If you're dealing with collision damage, getting these straightened or replaced is a priority. You can sometimes find replacements pretty easily—Fixparts Online has a good selection, for example—but it's important to make sure you get the right part for your specific vehicle. Backed by experts: Side Member (MPN 5Q0804456B) includes a 12-month warranty!

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• Genuine Volkswagen parts are designed specifically for your vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance. • Using Volkswagen parts helps maintain your vehicle's original quality, safety features, and value. • Our parts are rigorously tested to meet Volkswagen’s high standards, giving you peace of mind and long-lasting reliability. • You'll find a wide range of parts and accessories, backed by Volkswagen's warranty and expert support. Performance you can rely on – Volkswagen parts from FixParts Online.