What does 'frame pulling' refer to in auto body repair?

Frame pulling refers to a process used to correct structural damage on a vehicle's frame or unibody when it has been affected by a collision or other impact. This technique is essential in restoring the vehicle to its original specifications, ensuring safety and proper alignment of critical components.

In a situation where the frame is bent or misaligned, frame pulling utilizes specialized equipment to apply force in specific directions to repair and realign the damaged areas. This process helps to restore the structural integrity of the vehicle, allowing for proper handling and performance after repairs are completed. Additionally, a properly restored frame can have significant implications for passenger safety, as a compromised structure can affect how a vehicle absorbs impact in a collision.

The other choices, while related to different aspects of auto body repair, do not accurately describe frame pulling. Removing rust, improving paint adhesion, and enhancing vehicle aerodynamics are important in their own right, but they do not involve the structural correction that frame pulling specifically addresses.