A dent can mar the otherwise pristine surface of your car. To avoid diminishing the visual appeal of your vehicle and prevent the need for dent repair services, every driver should be aware of some of the most common causes of dents. Here are a few to know about.

What Are Some Reasons for Car Dents?

1. Minor Car Accidents

Fender benders frequently result in dings and depressions that require dent repair. Sometimes, all it takes is a tap of a bumper, a light strike from another car door, or a scrape against the side of a building, fence, or other structure for a dent to form. Avoid these possibilities by practicing defensive driving at all times, scanning your surroundings while at the wheel, and steering clear of tight parking spots.

2. Shopping Carts

Even when you feel fully in control of a shopping cart, an errant wheel or an uneven distribution of weight can cause it to veer in an unexpected direction—and right into your vehicle. Fortunately, it usually isn’t powerful enough to do serious auto body damage, but it can certainly make dents. Be sure to keep shopping cart loads as light as possible, with heavier items evenly placed throughout the basket and undercarriage, and always place carts in the cart return once you've unloaded.

3. Weather Events

Hail is one of the most common weather-related causes of dents. When possible, park your car in a garage, carport, or other covered space to minimize the chances of hail damage when you're not out.

Also, be aware of high winds. A strong gust can blow rocks, branches, and other debris directly onto your vehicle, causing dents and potentially more severe damage.

If your car is compromised by a dent, the team at Whitesell Service Inc. can help. Since 1949, they’ve provided dent repair services to the Shenandoah Valley, VA, region. They also offer auto body work and collision repair for minor damage and more serious accidents. Their ASE- and ICAR-certified technicians take pride in restoring your vehicle to its former glory. Call (540) 943-3361 to schedule service, or visit their website to learn more about their work.