Accidents and mishaps on the road are bound to happen, but many of the most common auto body repairs can be prevented with caution and care.

While visiting an auto body shop in Virginia Beach can fix the damage, it’s always better to avoid the need for repairs in the first place.

Below, we’ll dive into the top five most common auto body repairs and share some useful tips to help you keep your car in great shape and out of the shop.

1) Dents and Dings | Auto Body Shop in Virginia Beach

Dents and dings are the most frequent types of damage vehicle owners face. These typically occur in parking lots when other drivers carelessly open their doors or from small impacts like shopping carts rolling into your car.

How to Avoid It:

  • Park smarter: Whenever possible, park further away from other cars in parking lots to minimize the chance of someone opening their door into your vehicle.
  • Choose wider spaces: Opt for parking spots with more room between cars.
  • Watch out for hazards: Keep an eye on shopping carts or other objects that could roll into your car. Parking on an incline or near cart returns can increase your chances of getting hit.

2) Scratches on the Paint

Scratches are another common issue that requires frequent auto body repairs. They can result from a range of causes, including minor accidents, rubbing against bushes, or even dirt and debris on the road scratching the paint as you drive.

How to Avoid It:

  • Keep your car clean: Dirt and debris can cause scratches if they’re not washed off regularly. Make sure to clean your car often, especially after driving on dirty or gravel-filled roads.
  • Use proper washing techniques: Avoid using rough sponges or towels that can scratch the paint. Stick with microfiber cloths and gentle washing motions.
  • Be careful where you park: If you park too close to bushes or other objects, you risk getting scratches from brushing up against them.

3) Bumper Damage | Auto Body Shop in Virginia Beach

Bumper damage is common due to low-speed collisions, especially in parking lots or during tight parallel parking maneuvers. Whether it’s a small fender bender or scraping against a curb, bumpers are one of the first parts of a car to take a hit.

How to Avoid It:

  • Practice your parking skills: Take the time to master parallel parking and reversing into spaces. Use your rearview camera and parking sensors (if your car has them) to help.
  • Drive cautiously in parking lots: Always drive slowly and keep an eye on other drivers who may not be paying attention.
  • Install bumper guards: These can help reduce damage from minor impacts.

Also Read: 5 Common Collision Repair Mistakes to Avoid

4) Cracked Windshields

A cracked windshield can happen suddenly from a rock flying up from the road or over time due to extreme temperature changes or poor maintenance. It’s not only a cosmetic issue but also a safety concern.

How to Avoid It:

  • Keep your distance from trucks: Large trucks can kick up rocks and debris, so it’s best to maintain a safe following distance.
  • Address chips immediately: If you notice a small chip, get it repaired before it spreads into a larger crack.
  • Avoid drastic temperature changes: Don’t blast your defroster or air conditioner directly onto a freezing or hot windshield; the rapid temperature change can lead to cracking.

5) Frame Damage | Auto Body Shop in Virginia Beach

Frame damage usually occurs in more serious accidents and can compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle. Even minor collisions can cause misalignment, affecting the car’s handling and safety.

How to Avoid It:

  • Follow traffic rules: Most accidents happen due to speeding or not following traffic signals. Stay within speed limits and always be mindful of other drivers.
  • Be mindful in bad weather: Rain, snow, and ice increase the risk of accidents. Drive more cautiously in these conditions.
  • Stay aware: Always be alert on the road and anticipate the actions of other drivers to avoid collisions.

Conclusion

While accidents and damage can’t always be avoided, being aware of the most common auto body repairs can help you take preventive measures to minimize the chances of needing repairs. By staying cautious and practicing safe driving habits, you can keep your vehicle in top shape and reduce the need for costly visits to an auto body shop in Virginia Beach.

At Mike’s Paint and Body, we provide exceptional auto repairs with precision and care. Our technicians use top-quality materials and cutting-edge techniques to restore your vehicle to its original condition.

Contact us today.