Do dents decrease car value?
Asked by: Dr. Rickie Mann | Last update: November 19, 2025Score: 4.1/5 (4 votes)
How much does a dent decrease the value of a car?
The simplest gauge of reference is, if the dent is clearly visible from 10 or so feet away, it's probably worth at least having it assessed by a repair shop. Consider also if any body paint has been affected. If either is an issue, it's likely the dent devalues the vehicle by 5 to 10% of its worth.
Is it worth fixing dents before selling a car?
Yes, fixing a dent in your car before trading it in can be beneficial. Here are some reasons why: Increased Trade-In Value: A well-maintained car, free of dents and cosmetic damage, is likely to fetch a higher trade-in value.
Is it worth getting dents out of a car?
Small dents may seem minor, but they can detract from the overall look of your vehicle. Fixing these blemishes ensures that your car retains its sleek and well-cared-for appearance, which can be especially important if you use your vehicle for professional purposes or simply take pride in its appearance.
Does a dent count as damage?
Car body damage can go from small scratches to a state of total disrepair and those unsightly dings and dents are somewhere in between, but they still are unappealing and can be damaging to a vehicle.
Did you know that dent damage can decrease the value of your car?
How much is a car with dent worth?
An average accident can decrease a car's value instantly (and permanently) by 10 – 25% annually, whereas an accident that only creates light damage (such as light scratches or small dents that don't impact the paint) will only decrease its value by 5-15%.
Is a dent in a car a big deal?
If there's any damage to the vehicle's paint or body panels, the dent can lead to moisture damage including rust and flaking paint. Larger dents or crease dents from objects like a tree branch may hide structural damage to the body of the car, which is a major safety concern.
Do dealerships buy cars with dents?
Absolutely, you can trade in a damaged car, but the important detail to keep in mind is the impact this will have on the trade-in value. Dealerships are not in the business of losing money, and body damage on your vehicle will certainly catch their attention.
Are dents expensive to fix?
The dent repair cost may range from $50 to $2,500. Although that's a broad range, most small dents that are roughly an inch in size may cost around $50 to $125. Small indentations may come from a flying rock or piece of hail. Dents stemming from a collision are typically larger and cost $150 or more.
Is it OK to leave a dent on your car?
Our advice is never to leave a dent in your car bodywork untreated. Here are a few reasons why. Even if a dent looks minor when it first happens, leaving it over time could lead to it getting worse.
Will a dent fail inspection?
Minor dings and dents aren't typically counted against you in a vehicle inspection. If the damage is extensive enough, however, it may become a potential obstacle to passing.
Can I trade my car in if it has a dent?
Can you trade in a car with damage if it needs major repairs? Yes. But in this case, it's not worth it to fix the vehicle if the repairs are costly.
Do mechanics remove dents?
Professional mechanics are experts in dent repair and are familiar with what tools to use to effectively fix a dent, whatever the location or size. Some tools they use include: Dent pullers: A dent puller is a tool that is used to pull dents out from the inside.
Should I fix dent before selling?
By fixing dents, scratches, rust, and other imperfections, you can significantly enhance the resale value of your vehicle and attract potential buyers.
How much should I spend on dent?
So, how much should you spend on rent? Generally, experts recommend spending no more than 30% of monthly pre-tax income on housing. However, it's not always that simple. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, between 2017 and 2021, over 40% of renter households (19 million) spent more than 30% of their income on rent.
Is it hard to get dents out of cars?
While deeper or more complex damage may still require an expert, you can successfully repair most minor dents by following a few simple methods. Here's how to fix a car dent by yourself, using tools like a plunger, hairdryer, and even a vacuum cleaner.
How much to fix a dent in a car in the UK?
The cost of repairing dents in the UK can vary significantly based on several factors. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £150 per dent for minor repairs. However, this price range can increase for more severe dents or if multiple dents need attention.
What dents Cannot be fixed?
Sharp dents are one of the few dents that most often cannot be removed via paintless dent repair. These dents occur along the body lines of the car and are often deeper than round dents. They are also tighter than round dents, making them harder to repair, especially if they are in a difficult spot.
Is it worth getting dents out of car?
If you plan on selling or trading in your car soon, it may be wise to get the dent fixed immediately. A damaged exterior can significantly decrease the resale value of your vehicle. Additionally, a dent can make your car look older and less attractive, which also affects its value.
Is it OK to drive a dented car?
Whether your car is drivable after an accident depends on the extent of the damage and whether it's safe to operate for you and others on the road. If the damage is minor or cosmetic, or doesn't impact the car's safety, you can drive your car after an accident.
Will car insurance cover dents?
When it comes to dents, scratches, and door dings, most car insurance claims fall under collision or comprehensive coverage. These coverages can be optionally added to your policy and should be considered if you are concerned about damage to your vehicle.
Can I sell a car with a dent?
It's crucial to repair scratches and dents before trading or selling your car. Not only will it lead to a higher car rating and resale value, but it can also prevent the loss of significant sums of money.
How to pop a dent out of a car?
Boiling Water Method:
Carefully pour the boiling water directly onto the dent, ensuring it covers the entire affected area. Allow the hot water to soften the metal for a few minutes. Reach behind the dent with a gloved hand or a soft cloth and gently push outward to pop the dent back into shape.
What is considered a small dent in a car?
A Minor Dent, is a dent that has a diameter larger than 50 mm. These dents are typically caused by impacts from baseballs, basketballs, resting elbows, hip checks, parking lot bumper rubs, ect. Sometimes vehicle body lines, and sharp corners near the dent, result in cracked paint at time of impact.