Congratulations on your new car! While it’s tempting to rev the engine and show off its shiny exterior, taking care of your vehicle is essential for maintaining its value and appearance.
In this article, we’ll cover three ways to prevent scratches and dents on your new car, so you can keep it looking great for years to come.
#1 Drive Carefully
This may seem obvious, but driving carefully can prevent a lot of damage to your car. If you’re a confident, assertive, and defensive driver, you have a better chance of avoiding collisions and damage from other cars.
Always be mindful of speed bumps or potholes in the road that could cause your car to scrape against the pavement. Avoid tailgating and sudden braking to decrease the chances of a collision and pay attention to road conditions, such as slick areas or loose gravel, and drive accordingly.
If you’re frequently cruising the city streets or selecting tight parking spots, take extra care to watch for low-hanging branches or narrow alleyways.
Of course, it’s important to always be sure to follow the speed limit and traffic laws. Not only is it safer for you and others on the road but also helps prevent accidental dents, scratches, and damage from reckless driving.
#2 Park Cautiously
Picking your parking spot wisely can prevent considerable damage to your car. If you’re driving a brand-new car, it’s safe to say that your awareness of your surroundings may be heightened. You can use that to your advantage when selecting a parking spot.
While out and about, look for well-lit, open areas with enough room for you to comfortably get in and out of the car. Also, keep an eye out for shopping carts or bikes that could potentially scratch your car’s paint.
If you have a garage at home, use it to protect your car from inclement weather and debris. If you’re parking in a lot, try to park away from other cars (if possible) and avoid tight squeezes or squeezing in next to larger vehicles that may open their doors into yours.
When parallel parking on the street, take your time and be sure to leave enough room between your car, the curb, and any additional cars that may be around you.
There’s no doubt staying mindful and paying attention to how you park can save you from a lot of avoidable damage.
#3 Pay Attention to Extreme Weather Reports
Extreme weather can cause damage to your car in a variety of ways. Car hail damage is common in a few states such as Colorado and Texas every spring and summer. Hailstorms can leave dents, heavy winds can blow debris into your car, and flooding can lead to rust or other water damage.
If you know that severe weather is headed your way, try to park your car in a covered or enclosed area, such as a garage. If you’re unable to park inside, avoid low-lying areas that may flood and consider investing in a durable car cover to protect against hail or strong winds.
Additionally, be sure to regularly wash and wax your car to prevent damage from harsh UV rays or acid rain.
Of course, sometimes severe weather is unavoidable. In these cases, if you got caught in a hail, and have dents all over your car, paintless dent repair lets you get rid of those hailstorm marks without having any real consequences for doing so!
In Conclusion…
Taking care of a new car can feel overwhelming, but following these tips can help prevent scratches and dents, preserving the value and appearance of your vehicle. Be sure to drive carefully, park cautiously, and pay attention to extreme weather reports to keep your car looking like new.
Thank you for reading — and happy driving!