What is one of the most frustrating things that can happen to your car? Getting a scratch or a dent! Scratches are caused by many different things, but they all have one thing in common: They take away from the beauty of your car. If you’re trying to prevent costly paint repairs, here are the 7 most common causes of scratches and how you can avoid them.

1. Other Drivers: One common cause of scratches on cars is when another driver opens their door right in front of you. This can be very frustrating, but there are a few steps that you can take to avoid this situation from happening again.

• Make sure the person sees your car before opening their door.
• Honk at them if necessary to let them you are there.
• Leave some room between yourself and other vehicles so everyone has enough space when getting out of the car.

2. Shopping Carts: Many people have experienced scratches and dents from shopping carts being pushed into their vehicle by wind, other shoppers, or hitting their own car when trying to load groceries into the trunk at grocery stores or supermarkets.

3. Parking Meters: Another common cause that scratches vehicles is when people hit their cars against parking meters and poles while trying to park. There are ways to avoid this.

• Always pay attention to what you’re doing, especially if there are not many spaces available at busy locations.
• Try finding another spot where it will be easier for you to avoid hitting anything with your car.
• Keep in mind that you should always back into parking spaces so it will be easier and safer for your car to get out of the spot.

4. Misjudging Space: Sometimes people squeeze their cars too tightly between two other vehicles while parallel parking. Back up a little further before attempting to park closer to another vehicle next time. This way you’ll have enough space on either side when trying to get in or out of your parking spot.

5. Landscaping: Another common cause of scratches is when people park their cars near rocks, trees and other landscaping. Opening your door into a pile of rocks or into a tree trunk can scratch or even dent your door. You could also hit landscaping with your bumper while pulling into or out of parking spots. Make sure there is enough space to avoid hitting anything with your doors while getting in and out of parking spots.

6. Improper Washing/Waxing: Scratches can also occur from improper washing and waxing. Using products or applicators not approved for vehicles can scratch your paint. And if you think automatic car washes are safer, think again! Automatic car washes can cause scratches on your car with rough scrubbers and moving mechanical parts. Always use products and application techniques meant for cars.

7. Malicious Behavior: Another all too common cause of scratches on cars is malicious behavior. This is when someone intentionally scratches your vehicle with a key or other implement. These scratches are often deep and not easily remedied. This can be tough to avoid but always park so that you leave enough space on each side of your car for everyone to get in and out as a precaution.

Sometimes, even the best drivers have a hard time avoiding scratches. When a scratch or dent happens, you can trust Colors on Parade of Southwest Virgina for mobile repair service. We’ll fix the scratches on your car and rewind the damage.