Dents in your car can affect your vehicle's appearance as well as its functionality if they are near the doors or windows. While collisions are sometimes the cause, dents can be created even when your car is at a standstill. Luckily, there are some preventive measures you can take to avoid needing dent repairs. Here are some of the most common causes of dents in your vehicle and how to avoid them.

Why Drivers Need Dent Repairs

1. Shopping Carts

Due to its metal frame, a shopping cart can do quite a bit of damage if it slams into a car, especially if it's particularly windy that day. The best way to avoid this problem is by parking far away from any stray shopping carts, as well as the corrals where they're stored outdoors. Doing so will help prevent them from getting blown away and hitting your car. 

2. Vehicle Doors

Another common reason for dents is another frequent parking lot threat: other cars. When cars are in tight parking spots, it can be easy for someone to swing their door a little too fast or with too much force, denting your vehicle in the process. You can try to avoid this situation by parking away from any cars trying to squeeze into a much smaller parking spot. For example, if you notice a large vehicle in the neighboring parking spot, you might consider a different space with more room. You can further improve your chances by parking between two empty spaces whenever possible.

3. Storm Debris

From hail to fallen branches, this kind of debris is common during and after a storm. If it's raining heavily or there's inclement weather in the forecast, always try to park in a garage or carport. Having some sort of overhead protection can help avoid these weather-related dents. As another preventive step, it's important to trim any weakened or diseased branches around the property when you're at home too. Not only is this important for keeping your car in good condition, but it will also help keep you and your family safe.

Whatever the reason for your vehicle's dent, make an appointment with Mark's Auto Body for quality dent repairs. For more than 25 years, our highly trained auto body technicians have served the Cincinnati, OH, region, offering efficient repairs and friendly customer service. Our shop has top-of-the-line equipment and technology to ensure a seamless repair. For more information on our services, visit our website or call (513) 731-4273 today.