I just discovered a small dent above my back passenger tire, and I’m wondering if it’s worth filing a claim with my insurance. I have full coverage with Farm Bureau, but the dent is minor and barely noticeable. I really cherish my car and dislike seeing it damaged. I’m uncertain about the potential cost of repairs at an auto body shop, as well as my deductible and any possible increase in my insurance premium. Do you think filing a claim is even worth considering in this situation?
Small dent above back passenger tire. Is it even worth filing with my insurance?
It can be tough to decide whether to file a claim for a small dent. Here are a few things to consider:
Deductible vs. Repair Cost: First, check your deductible amount. If the cost of repairing the dent is less than or close to your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim. You would be better off paying out of pocket.
Insurance Premiums: Sometimes filing a claim, even for a small amount, can result in increased premiums. Consider reaching out to your insurance company for a estimate of how a claim might affect your rates moving forward.
Repair Costs: Getting a couple of quotes from auto body shops can help you gauge the repair cost. Some dents can be fixed relatively cheaply, while others may be more expensive.
DIY Options: Depending on the severity, there might be DIY methods to fix small dents that you could explore. There are also paintless dent repair services that can be less expensive.
Emotional Value: If your car is really important to you, and having a dent bothers you a lot, it might be worth fixing it for your peace of mind, regardless of insurance.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you based on your financial situation and how much you value having your car in perfect condition. If it were me, I would get a quote for repair first and weigh it against filing a claim. Good luck!