Do Car Dealerships Fix Dents? What You Need to Know

Buying a car, especially a used one, often comes with the excitement of a new ride and the practicality of personal transportation. However, it’s not uncommon to spot minor imperfections like dents during the car buying process. This naturally leads to the question: Do Car Dealerships Fix Dents? Understanding dealership policies and your negotiation power is key to addressing these issues.

Car dealerships have varying approaches when it comes to fixing dents, and it often depends on whether you are buying a new or used vehicle. For new cars, minor dents are less expected, and dealerships are generally incentivized to present their inventory in pristine condition. If a new car has a noticeable dent, it’s more likely they will address it, often through their in-house service or by contracting with a local body shop.

Used cars are a different story. They typically come with some degree of wear and tear, and minor dents might be considered part of this normal aging process. Dealerships might not automatically fix every small dent on a used vehicle unless it’s a significant imperfection that could deter buyers. However, this doesn’t mean you’re without options.

Negotiating dent repair can be a crucial part of buying a car, particularly a used one. Many dealerships are willing to negotiate repairs to finalize a sale. If you notice dents or other cosmetic issues, bring them up with the salesperson. Don’t rely on verbal promises; always ensure any agreed-upon repairs are written directly into the sales contract. This written agreement is your protection and ensures the dealership is obligated to fulfill their promise.

One car buyer recounted an experience where a dealership initially balked at fixing an engine issue, even after verbally agreeing to it. However, because the repair agreement was explicitly stated in the contract, the dealership ultimately honored their commitment, even upgrading the customer to a better vehicle. This story highlights the importance of getting repair agreements in writing.

Similarly, another buyer shared experiences of successfully negotiating various fixes, including paint repairs and key replacements, by ensuring these were documented in the contract before signing. These examples underscore a vital lesson: what is written in the contract is what matters.

When it comes to dents, whether a dealership will fix them often hinges on negotiation and the specifics of your purchase agreement. For minor dents on used cars, dealerships might consider them normal wear and tear and might not offer automatic repairs. However, by proactively negotiating and insisting on a written repair agreement within your contract, you significantly increase the chances of the dealership addressing dents and other imperfections to your satisfaction before you drive off the lot. Always remember, clear and written agreements are your best tool in ensuring you get the car in the condition you expect.