Which of the following is a common sign of frame damage in a vehicle?

Uneven tire wear or misaligned body panels is indeed a common sign of frame damage in a vehicle. When the vehicle's frame is bent or damaged, it can affect the alignment of various components, leading to a misalignment of the wheels. This misalignment can cause the tires to wear unevenly because they are not making uniform contact with the road surface. Additionally, misaligned body panels can indicate that the frame no longer provides the stable foundation it is meant to, resulting in gaps or irregular fits at joints and seams.

The other options do not specifically indicate frame damage. Rust on the body panels is more related to corrosion issues rather than structural integrity. Scratches on the paint surface typically point to cosmetic damage rather than any underlying frame issues. Leaking fluids may suggest problems with seals or gaskets in the vehicle but are not directly tied to the structural frame being compromised. Thus, uneven tire wear or misaligned body panels clearly point to potential frame damage and require further investigation during collision repair assessment.