A freak summer hail storm put quite a few dents into the roof and hood of Stan’s car. He wants to know if it’s worth having the damage repaired. In his own words:
“I have a 2018 Jeep Compass. It’s been a great car, I really have no complaints. But when I was visiting my family in Oklahoma, a passing storm delivered quarter size hail. The roof took the worst of it – I’d say there are 5 or 6 good sized dents – and then there’s one bigger dent on my hood. Honestly, money isn’t super tight but it’s tight enough that I don’t want to spend if I don’t have to. My dad says the dents are a big deal and I need to have them fixed. Is he right, or can I just let this ride?”
Fixing Small Dents in Cars: Why It’s Worth It
As a collision repair shop and auto body center, we can’t say we don’t have a horse in this race. Ideally, everyone’s car should look like it just came off the showroom floor, and we use our skills to make that happen. However, budgets are a thing, and it is important to know what repairs are necessary and what ones can wait.
When it comes to dents, the primary concern, beyond aesthetics, is did the hailstone damage the finish to such a degree that moisture can penetrate? Once you have a vulnerable point in your car’s finish, moisture will get in there and begin damaging your car’s structure. In an environment like Massachusetts, which has icy cold winters with the prevalent use of rock salt, as well as the perils that come with a seaside environment, damage can happen quickly.
It can be difficult to tell with a naked eye if the dents have compromised the finish. It’s important to choose a reputable collision repair shop, who will perform an inspection and give you an honest report on what needs fixing. If the dents are deep enough that pooling water collects in them, it’s a good bet they’re going to need repair.
The good news is that fixing minor dents is quick, easy, and affordable. A small investment now can add years and years to the useful life of your car.