Accidents happen, and unfortunately, dents are often the result. Dent resistance is linked to the quality and thickness of the metal used in manufacturing. It is not uncommon for non-luxury car makers to use thin body panels to cut costs. If your car has already suffered an accident, it’s important to quickly find a car dent repair professional near you to restore your vehicle.
In contrast, luxury makers like Porsche and Lexus often use thicker panels, which also makes them more dent resistant. However, some sports cars use thinner metal to reduce weight. Regardless of the make and model of your vehicle, dents can sometimes be unavoidable.
Why Cars Dent So Easily
Here are some of the main reasons cars dent, plus what you can do to avoid damage.
Weather
Dents are one of the most common forms of hail damage, increasing in severity with hailstone size. Although hail of any size can damage your car, hail that has a diameter of one inch can cause significant damage.
The duration of a hailstorm can also determine how much damage results. Besides hail, wind can cause serious damage, especially from airborne projectiles such as garbage, branches, or lawn items.
Parking Lot Accidents
Each year, thousands of accidents occur in parking lots across the United States, resulting in damage, injury, and even death.
Research shows that approximately 20% of all car accidents happen in parking lots and garages, and account for approximately 50,000 accidents per year in addition to the thousands of dents and dings that go unreported.
In parking lots, the most common cause of dents is the impact from opened doors of neighboring cars parked too close together.
To prevent damage from other parked vehicles, do not squeeze into tight spots. Instead, park where there is plenty of room or even no cars at all. Park far from shopping cart caddies, especially on windy days.
Poorly Maintained Roads and Debris
Asphalt deteriorates over time, causing it to crack and break down into small surface fragments which can become airborne and strike the surface of your vehicle. This can lead to fairly significant damage — to both the body of your car and windshield.
Not All Materials Are the Same
Some materials used in car manufacturing are more durable and safe than others.
The most common materials include:
- Steel is affordable, strong, widely available, and comes in a variety of grades. Approximately 65% of the materials used to build the average car are steel (or iron) products. Although steel will dent, it can absorb impact energy in a crash situation.
- Aluminum is much lighter than steel and can be stronger. This material is rust-resistant but expensive, which is why lower-cost vehicles rarely contain aluminum.
- Fiber-reinforced composites are now being used in select cases to make both structural and nonstructural components, including bumpers and hoods.
Car Dent Repair Facts
Did you know…
- Reputable repair shops can paint match the factory color of your vehicle. Shops like Valley Collision have the latest equipment, expertise, and state-of-the-art paint booths to refinish your vehicle to the highest standard.
Car Dent Repair Professionals You Can Count On
If you need car dent repair, the experienced dent repair professionals at Valley Collision can assess the damage to determine the most appropriate repair method.
We have the right tools and equipment to get the job done without additional damage, which can sometimes result from home repairs. Your smartest and safest choice for car repair is to seek help from our industry experts.
If you need auto repair services in Salt Lake City, get a free estimate today!
