I just discovered a small dent above my back passenger tire after getting home today. I have full coverage with Farm Bureau insurance, but the dent is pretty minor and hardly noticeable. Still, I love my car and hate seeing it damaged. I’m uncertain about the costs at an auto body shop or what my deductible might be, and I’m also concerned about how filing a claim could affect my insurance rates. Is it worth it to file a claim for such a small dent?
Small dent above back passenger tire. Is it even worth filing with my insurance?
It’s understandable to be concerned about any damage to your car, especially if you take pride in its appearance. Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to file a claim:
Cost of Repair vs. Deductible: First, check how much it would cost to repair the dent. If it’s a minor dent, it might be cheaper to pay for it out of pocket rather than going through your insurance. If the repair cost is less than your deductible, filing a claim wouldn’t make sense.
Deductible Amount: You mentioned you’re unsure what your deductible is—it’s worth checking that information. If your deductible is high (e.g., $500 or more), it might not be worth filing a claim for a small dent.
Potential Insurance Increase: Filing a claim, even for a small amount, can sometimes lead to increased premiums, especially if you have multiple claims in a short period. It might affect your rates even if the amount is below your deductible.
Small vs. Large Repairs: If it’s truly a small dent and doesn’t affect the functionality of your car, you might feel better about having a touch-up done locally rather than going through insurance.
Assess Your Feelings: Since you mentioned that your car is like your baby, you might want to weigh the emotional value of having it repaired. If seeing the dent bothers you significantly, it might be worth getting it fixed for your peace of mind.
Ultimately, it’s a personal decision based on the cost of repair, your deductible, and how much the dent bothers you. You might want to get a quote from an auto body shop to help you make a more informed decision.