Whether it’s a rogue shopping cart in a parking lot, a runaway bicycle, or a careless parallel parker, dents and scratches can happen in the blink of an eye. They may be minor, but they’re frustrating and often expensive to fix.
So here’s the big question:
Does car insurance cover dents and scratches?
The answer is: Yes, but it depends on how the damage happened and what type of coverage you have.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- Which types of dents and scratches are covered
- What coverage you need
- How much you’ll pay out of pocket
- Whether it’s worth filing a claim
- How to prevent cosmetic damage and protect your premium
Let’s take a closer look.
Is Cosmetic Damage Covered by Car Insurance?
Yes, car insurance can cover cosmetic damage like dents and scratches but only if the right type of coverage is in place and the cause of damage is covered under your policy.
Not all damage is treated equally. Your insurer will ask:
- How did the damage happen?
- Do you know who caused it?
- What coverages are included in your policy?
Let’s break it down by coverage type.
Types of Car Insurance That May Cover Dents and Scratches
1. Comprehensive Coverage
This pays for damage from non-collision events, such as:
- Vandalism (keying, intentional scratching)
- Falling tree branches or objects
- Weather-related damage (hail, flying debris)
- Animal contact
- Theft-related incidents
Example:
If a tree branch falls and dents your hood during a storm, comprehensive coverage would handle the repair minus your deductible.
2. Collision Coverage
This pays for damage caused by:
- Colliding with another car
- Hitting a pole, wall, or curb
- Accidents where you’re at fault
Example:
If you back into a post or scrape another car while parking, collision coverage will pay for the dents and scratches on your vehicle.
3. Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD)
Covers your vehicle if it’s damaged by a driver without insurance depending on your state.
Example:
An uninsured driver hits your parked car and leaves. If you have UMPD, your insurer may cover the repairs.
Not Covered by:
- Liability Insurance: Only covers damage you cause to other people not your own vehicle
- Mechanical Breakdown Insurance: Covers engine or system issues, not bodywork
- Basic State Minimum Policies: Typically exclude comprehensive and collision
When Car Insurance Covers Dents and Scratches
Here are some common scenarios and whether they’re covered:
| Scenario | Covered? | Coverage Type |
| Your car is keyed in a parking lot | Yes | Comprehensive |
| You scrape a pole in a parking garage | Yes | Collision |
| Another driver dents your bumper and drives off | Yes | Uninsured Motorist / Collision |
| Hailstorm leaves small dents on your hood | Yes | Comprehensive |
| A rock flies up and scratches your paint | Yes | Comprehensive |
| You bump into a wall pulling into your garage | Yes | Collision |
| Your child scratches the car with a toy | No | Typically not covered |
| Scratches from regular wear and tear | No | Considered maintenance |
What About Parking Lot Damage?
This is one of the most common sources of cosmetic damage.
If you know who hit your car:
You can file a claim through their liability insurance. Take photos and exchange info like you would in any accident.
If it was a hit-and-run:
- You can file under your collision coverage
- Or use uninsured motorist property damage (if available in your state)
Tip: Always file a police report for hit-and-run incidents, it helps support your claim.
How Much Will You Pay Out of Pocket?
That depends on:
- Your deductible (usually $250 to $1,000)
- The cost of repairs
- Whether your claim is approved
- The type of coverage being used
Sample Costs:
| Type of Repair | Avg. Cost | Claim Worth Filing? |
| Small paint scratch | $150–$300 | Usually not |
| Deep scratch w/ dent | $400–$700 | Sometimes |
| Large dent (bumper/door) | $800–$2,000 | Yes |
Tip: If repairs cost less than or close to your deductible, you’re better off paying out of pocket.
Will a Claim for Dents or Scratches Raise My Premium?
It depends.
- Filing a collision claim may raise your premium, especially if you’re at fault
- A comprehensive claim (e.g., hail, tree branch, vandalism) usually has less impact, especially if it’s your first claim
- Multiple claims within a short period may lead to non-renewal or surcharges
Real-World Estimate:
A single at-fault collision claim can raise your premium by 20% to 40% at renewal, depending on your insurer.
When Should You NOT File a Claim?
Avoid filing if:
- The repair cost is less than or equal to your deductible
- You’ve recently filed other claims (which could impact renewal)
The damage is minor and purely cosmetic (not affecting resale, function, or safety)
Should You File a Claim for Cosmetic Damage?
Use this quick decision table:
| Situation | File a Claim? | Why |
| Small scratch under $300 | No | Cheaper than deductible |
| Major dent from hit-and-run | Yes | Covered under collision or UMPD |
| Paint damage from keying | Yes | Covered under comprehensive |
| Wear and tear from sun or age | No | Not covered |
| You caused the dent backing up | Maybe | Depends on cost vs deductible |
How to File a Claim for Dents or Scratches
Step-by-Step:
- Document the Damage
- Take detailed photos from multiple angles
- Include any witnesses or security footage if available
- Take detailed photos from multiple angles
- Call Your Insurer or Use the Mobile App
- Most companies offer digital claim filing
- Most companies offer digital claim filing
- Get a Repair Estimate
- You may use an insurer-approved body shop or your own
- You may use an insurer-approved body shop or your own
- Pay the Deductible
- Your insurer covers the rest of the approved repair bill
- Your insurer covers the rest of the approved repair bill
- Track Your Claim
- Most insurers offer real-time updates through their apps
How to Prevent Dents and Scratches
Prevention is key especially in crowded urban areas like San Francisco, Los Angeles, or New York.
Park Smart:
- Choose end spots to avoid door dings
- Avoid tight spaces or crowded lots
- Use garages when possible
Add Protective Accessories:
- Door edge guards
- Bumper protectors
- Car covers (if parked outdoors)
Keep Your Distance:
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Avoid tailgating to prevent flying debris
Wash Regularly:
Dirt and sand can cause micro-scratches regular cleaning helps prevent long-term cosmetic issues
Real-Life Case Study
Driver: Maria, 38
Location: Seattle, WA
Scenario: Parked in a grocery lot, returned to find a deep scratch and dent on the rear door. No note left.
Damage Cost: $1,250
Coverage: Collision
Deductible: $500
Payout: $750
Premium Impact: $60/year increase at renewal
Maria said:
“The process was smooth with my app, and my rate only went up a little. Totally worth it to fix the door properly.”
FAQs: Dents, Scratches, and Car Insurance
Yes, if the cause is covered under comprehensive or collision but minor damage under your deductible isn’t worth claiming.
That’s a hit-and-run. File a police report, then submit a claim through collision or UMPD.
Yes. For small scratches, DIY touch-up kits are a cost-effective solution and won’t impact your insurance.
Yes. Dents and scratches can lower resale or trade-in value especially on newer cars.
Usually no. This is considered maintenance-related and not covered unless caused by vandalism or a crash.
Final Thoughts
So, does car insurance cover dents and scratches?
Yes, if the damage is sudden, accidental, and caused by a covered peril, your policy can help foot the bill.
But before you file a claim:
- Check your deductible
- Weigh the potential premium increase
- Consider the damage’s impact on your car’s value
Want to make sure you’re protected (without overpaying)? Use Alias Insurance to compare car insurance quotes that include comprehensive and collision coverage, so you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way big or small.
