Got Dents? Why You Should Repair Dents Before You Re-Paint Your Car

If your car is covered in dents and scratches, it’s important to fix those before applying a fresh coat of paint. Painting over dents and scratches may seem like a quick way to enhance the appearance of your car, but that’s simply not the case. This approach only offers a temporary cosmetic solution.

Furthermore, covering up the defects with paint can actually cause more problems for you down the road. Here are five problems you face if you have an auto body repair shop paint over the dents and scratches on your car. 

Compromised Strength

A fresh coat of paint may hide the visible signs of damage, however, paint can't address the structural issues caused by the damage. When you forego proper repairs, you risk overlooking hidden damage. Some of that damage can include weakened metal or compromised structural integrity.

Unfortunately, ignoring dents and scratches can lead to costly repairs later on. That's why an auto body repair shop should take care of the dents and scratches before painting your car. 

Improper Adhesion

For a quality paint job on your car, you need to start with a clean surface. That includes a surface that's free of dirt, grease, and blemishes, such as dents and scratches. Dents and scratches create an uneven surface. Unfortunately, that means the finish won't look smooth and seamless.

But, the problems go beyond aesthetics. Blemishes like dents and scratches make it difficult for paint to adhere to the surface. As a result, the new paint may lift and separate from your car. This could leave you with areas that peel and bubble. Avoid issues with adhesion—apply fresh paint to a clean, damage-free surface. 

Visible Blemishes

When you apply paint to a surface that's covered in dents and scratches, you don't repair the defects. The defects are still visible through the paint, leaving your care with an unattractive appearance. Plus, if there are jagged edges, you could get injured by the visible defects. That's why body damage should be repaired before you pay to have your car painted. Bodywork will restore your car to pre-damage condition. 

Rust Formation

Dents and scratches leave bare metal exposed on your car. The exposure leaves your car susceptible to damage caused by moisture and oxidation. Painting over the damage doesn't prevent issues with moisture and oxidation. In fact, painting over the damage can trap moisture beneath the paint.

Unfortunately, the trapped moisture increases the risk of rust formation. Over time, rust and corrosion can cause serious damage to your car that will need to be addressed. Prevent rust caused by trapped moisture. Avoid painting your car until an auto body shop can repair the body damage. 

Depreciation

When it comes time to sell your car, potential buyers will scrutinize its condition. Body damage is often a red flag for potential buyers. That includes body damage that's been concealed by a fresh coat of paint. In fact, painting over the body damage can be a sign that your car has underlying issues.

This type of damage can decrease the resale value. Unfortunately, these problems can also affect the trade-in value of your car. Luckily, you can avoid issues with depreciation. Address the damage before it becomes a bigger issue.

Don't take chances with your car. If there's visible body damage, contact the experts at Coats Auto Body & Paint today.