As a car owner, you want to keep your vehicle looking its best for as long as possible. Unfortunately, this can be a challenge when scratches and dents seem to come out of nowhere. While some scratches can be inevitable, there are certain places where they are more likely to occur. Here, we will cover the top 6 places where car scratches happen and why those places are a hot spot for scratches to occur.

1. Driving on dirt or gravel roads

One of the most common places for car scratches to happen is on dirt or gravel roads. Rocks and debris are frequently kicked up by moving vehicles, and if any of them hit your car, they can cause scratches and chips. Additionally, driving on dirt or gravel roads can cause your tires to kick up dust and rocks, which can then settle on your car’s surface and cause scratches.

2. Automatic car washes

While automatic car washes are a quick and easy way to get your car clean, they can also be a hot spot for scratches. The brushes used in automatic car washes can be too harsh for your car’s paint and may leave behind scratches. Additionally, if there are any bits of dirt or debris left on your car’s surface, the brushes can grind them into your car’s paint, causing scratches.

3. Supermarket parking lots

You might not even realize it, but supermarket parking lots are also a common place for car scratches to happen. With so many cars in one area, it’s easy for a shopping cart or another vehicle to accidentally scrape your car’s surface. Additionally, people are often in a hurry when they’re in a supermarket parking lot, which can lead to careless driving and accidental scratches.

4. Street parking

Parking on the side of the street is another hot spot for car scratches. Passing cars can accidentally swipe against your car while driving by, sometimes causing serious damage. In parallel parking situations, the car parking in front of or behind you might rub and scuff your bumper while parking. Additionally, in urban areas, street cleaning vehicles can also accidentally scratch your car’s surface as they go by.

5. Parking under trees

While it might seem like a great idea to park under a tree on a hot day, it can actually be a recipe for scratches. Sap, leaves and branches can all fall from trees and land on your car’s surface, causing scratches.

6. Multi-story parking garages

Finally, multi-story parking garages are another common place for car scratches to happen. Tight corners, narrow spaces and concrete pillars can make it difficult to maneuver your car without hitting something. Additionally, other cars in the garage may accidentally open their doors too wide, scratching or denting your door.

While there are many places where car scratches can happen, there are steps you can take to prevent them. Be mindful when parking your car and avoid parking in areas where scratches are more likely to occur. If your car does end up with a scratch or dent, don’t hesitate to call the experts at Colors On Parade for quick and affordable mobile scratch and dent repair.