Does Car Insurance Cover Scratches, Dents and Cosmetic Damage?

  • Not all cosmetic damage is covered—scratches, dents, and paint repairs depend on your policy and the cause.
  • Comprehensive may help, but deductibles and potential rate hikes matter.
  • Know when to file a claim—insurance isn’t always the best option.

Compare comprehensive coverage rates with The Zebra. Get started below!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Why you can trust The Zebra

The Zebra partners with some of the companies we write about. However, our content is written and reviewed by an independent team of editors and licensed agents. Reference our data methodology and learn more about how we make money.

Author profile picture

Beth Swanson

Insurance Analyst

Beth joined The Zebra in 2022 as an Associate Content Strategist. A licensed insurance agent, she specializes in creating clear, accessible content t…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • Associate in Insurance
Author profile picture

Mark Friedlander

Director, Corporate Communications, Insurance Information Institute

Mark Friedlander has over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry. He is the Director, Corporate Communications, at the Insurance Informatio…

Author profile picture

Renata Balasco

Senior Content Strategist

Renata joined The Zebra in 2020 as a Customer Experience Agent. Since 2021, she has worked as licensed insurance professional and content strategist.…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty

Does auto insurance cover cosmetic damage to your car? 

Yes, comprehensive or collision coverage may cover minor damage, but filing a claim isn’t always worth it. If the repair cost is close to your deductible or doesn’t affect your car’s functionality, paying out of pocket can save money—especially if your car is older or lower in value.

If another driver caused the damage, their insurance should cover it, and you won’t pay a deductible unless it was a hit-and-run.

money
Types of cosmetic damage covered by insurance
Type of damage Comprehensive Collision Liability
Scratches (from vandalism, trees, or weather) ✅ Yes ❌ No ❌ No
Scratches (from an accident you caused) ❌ No ✅ Yes ❌ No
Scuffs & minor dents (from parking lot mishaps) ❌ No ✅ Yes ❌ No
Dents (from hail or falling objects) ✅ Yes ❌ No ❌ No
Broken or cracked windshield ✅ Yes ❌ No ❌ No
Bumper damage (from an accident you caused) ❌ No ✅ Yes ❌ No
Bumper damage (from an accident someone else caused) ❌ No ❌ No ✅ Yes (via at-fault driver)
Paint damage (from vandalism or weather-related events) ✅ Yes ❌ No ❌ No
Paint damage (from an accident you caused) ❌ No ✅ Yes ❌ No

Erick Sosa, licensed insurance agent at The Zebra
Agent insight: Should I file a claim for cosmetic damage?

"Deciding whether to file a claim is highly personal and depends on the situation. For example, a $500 paint scratch might matter more to one person than to another. It's important to consider deductibles and whether the claim's long-term impact on premiums outweighs the out-of-pocket repair cost. If it's cosmetic and affordable to fix independently, avoiding a claim can help maintain better rates over time. Also, claims get reported to Carfax, which can lower the resale value of your car."

-Erick Sosa, Licensed Insurance Agent at The Zebra


Will your insurance pay for cosmetic car damage?

Let's look at a few scenarios in which you might consider filing a claim with your car insurance company. Ultimately, it's up to you, but exploring some common situations may provide insight if you encounter a similar inssue.

bullet
Someone keyed my car

Yes—keying is vandalism, so it falls under comprehensive coverage. While these claims don’t raise premiums as much as collision claims, they can still have an impact.

When filing a claim makes sense:
✔ Repair costs are much higher than your deductible
✔ Your car is newer and more valuable

For example, if a $2,500 repair is needed on a $20,000 car with a $500 deductible, filing a claim is worth it. However, paying out of pocket may be smarter if your car is only worth $5,000 and you have a $1,000 deductible.

bullet
My car was hit by road debris

Yes, but coverage depends on how it happened:

✔ Flying debris (e.g., a rock hits your car midair) → Covered under comprehensive insurance
✔ Hitting debris on the road → Covered under collision insurance

For windshield damage, comprehensive coverage applies if you have glass protection. Some insurers even waive or lower deductibles for glass repairs—check your policy.

Before filing a claim, compare the repair cost to your deductible. If the damage is minor, paying out of pocket may be smarter. If debris put you in danger, consider filing a police report.

bullet
My car was damaged by pests

Cosmetic damage from bugs, birds, or other pests is not covered by auto insurance, as it doesn’t affect your car’s functionality. Filing a claim for minor cosmetic issues is usually not worth it and would likely be denied.

However, if a pest damages your car’s mechanics—like a rat chewing through wires—comprehensive coverage may apply. Coverage depends on your specific policy, and repairs must exceed your deductible before insurance kicks in.

When in doubt, check your policy details to see if pest-related damage is covered.

bullet
Tree sap discolored my paint

Unfortunately, tree sap damage is considered gradual wear and tear, which insurance typically does not cover. Comprehensive coverage applies to sudden, accidental damage like a tree branch falling on your car and scratching the paint.

If the sap has already damaged your paint, you may need to pay for detailing or a repaint out of pocket. To prevent future issues, regularly wash your car and consider using a protective wax or ceramic coating.

bullet
Water damage from sunroof leak

If you accidentally leave your sunroof open during a storm, insurance likely won’t cover the water damage—this is considered negligence. However, if a storm-related event, like hail, breaks your sunroof and lets water in, comprehensive coverage may apply.

If insurance won’t cover the repairs, act fast to prevent mold. Dry the interior thoroughly, and consider professional cleaning or replacing water-damaged upholstery and electronics.

windshield damage
What is considered minor damage?
Minor cosmetic damage includes small dents, scratches, chipped paint, or scuffed bumpers—issues that don’t affect the car’s functionality but may impact its appearance. These are usually inexpensive to fix and often not worth filing an insurance claim for.
 
Major cosmetic damage involves large dents, deep scratches, cracked windshields, or significant body panel damage. While still cosmetic, these issues may lower your car’s resale value or lead to further deterioration if left unaddressed. Depending on the severity, they may be worth repairing through insurance—especially if they impact safety or exceed your deductible.

How to file a claim for dents or scratch repair

Before filing a claim for cosmetic damage, consider the costs, coverage limits, and potential premium increases. Start by getting a repair estimate from a licensed body shop—many insurers require this and may have preferred repair networks to streamline the process. Providing clear photos, a detailed incident report, and any supporting evidence (like surveillance footage or witness statements) can help strengthen your claim. Review your policy to confirm coverage before proceeding. If approved, the insurer typically pays the repair shop directly or reimburses you.

What if my claim gets denied?

Insurance won’t always cover scratches or dents—especially if they’re from normal wear, pre-existing damage, or there’s not enough proof of what happened. Claims can also get denied if the damage doesn’t match your accident report.

If this happens, don’t panic! You can ask for a written explanation and challenge the decision with extra proof, like repair estimates or an independent assessment. If that doesn’t work, you can file a complaint with your state’s insurance department or try mediation or arbitration to resolve the issue without going to court.[2]

claim denial

Get the coverage you need for less. Compare rates today!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

How much will my premium increase if I file a claim?

Take a look at the data below to get an idea of how much a comprehensive claim might cause your insurance rates to increase. Of course, there are many factors that go into calculating your car insurance cost, but this provides a general idea based on our data.[3]

Average premium cost after comprehensive claims

Updating data...

Accident/Violation Avg. Monthly Premium Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
None $184 $1,103
One comp claim $194 $1,162
Two comp claims $204 $1,222

Source: The Zebra

Rates for comprehensive claims by company

The table below highlights the average monthly and 6-month rates after one or two comprehensive claims. Remember that your rates will be unique and that many factors go into your car insurance cost.

Rates after comprehensive violations from top companies
Filter by:

Updating data...

Company Avg. Monthly Premium Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
USAA $139 $831
State Farm $196 $1,178
Progressive $202 $1,210
Nationwide $178 $1,070
GEICO $160 $963
Farmers $210 $1,258
American Family $148 $887
Allstate $254 $1,524

Source: The Zebra

Should I File a Car Insurance Claim [Free Calculator]

Use our claims calculator to help decide if you should file a claim after an acident.

Will cosmetic damage lower my car’s resale or trade-in value?

Paying out of pocket for small damage may save you more in the long run. However, if the damage is severe or caused by another driver, insurance can help cover the cost. Cosmetic damage can lower your car’s resale or trade-in value, especially if it’s visible or suggests poor maintenance. Dealerships and private buyers often see dents, scratches, and faded paint as signs of neglect, which can lead to lower offers.

  • Major dents, deep scratches, or rust are the most noticeable and can significantly reduce your car’s value.
  • Cracked windshields or chipped paint may seem minor, but they can make your car harder to sell.
  • Interior wear and tear, like torn seats or stained upholstery, also impact trade-in value.
  • Pre-existing conditions aren't covered by insurance and this could be a deterrent for a future owner

Investing in a few low-cost repairs can make a big difference in your car’s resale value without breaking the bank. 

money
How much does scratch or dent repair cost?

While minor scuffs and clear coat scratches are relatively inexpensive to fix—often under $300—deeper paint scratches can require extensive repairs, costing anywhere from $400 to $2,500. The more severe the damage, the pricier the fix, making it important to take care of small scratches before they worsen.[4] Paintless dent repair could cost between $50 and $500 per dent, depending on what part of the vehicle it's located on and how big the dent is.[5]


Is there a specific endorsement for cosmetic damage to cars?

Standard auto insurance typically doesn’t cover minor cosmetic damage, but some third-party providers, dealerships, and specialty insurers offer scratch and dent policies or cosmetic repair plans as add-ons. Some insurers also provide optional endorsements, though availability and exclusions vary—especially for damage caused by wind or hail. [6]

When considering cosmetic repair coverage, check for limitations on the number of claims per year, exclusions like structural damage, and the claims process to understand how repairs are handled. Research the provider’s customer service and repair quality to ensure the coverage fits your needs.

damaged car

Compare rates from more than 100 insurance companies!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Cosmetic damage FAQs

Paint damage (scratches, dents, or otherwise) is covered by car insurance if you carry comprehensive or collision coverage and the damage resulted from a covered claim. Check your policy or contact your insurance company to confirm if you aren't sure of your coverage.

It depends on your priorities. If you’re willing to pay out of pocket and want your car looking its best, go for it. Insurance may cover cosmetic damage, but you’ll have to pay your deductible, and frequent claims could lead to higher rates. Before filing, consider how many claims you’ve made recently and whether the potential premium increase is worth it.

Major cosmetic damage involves large dents, deep scratches, cracked windshields, or significant body panel damage. While still cosmetic, these issues may lower your car’s resale value or lead to further deterioration if left unaddressed. Depending on the severity, they may be worth repairing through insurance—especially if they impact safety or exceed your deductible.

Comprehensive coverage applies to cosmetic damage from non-collision events like hail, vandalism, or falling objects, while collision coverage covers damage from an accident. If your policy includes either, insurance may help with repairs—but you’ll still need to pay your deductible, and filing a claim could lead to higher premiums, so it’s worth considering the costs before filing.

Insider knowledge, trusted guidance

Author profile picture

Erick Sosa

Sales Manager

Eric began his insurance career at The Zebra in 2020, starting in an unlicensed role assisting customers before earning his Property & Casualty l…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
Author profile picture

Jordan Lazare

Digital Manager of Agency

With a 10-year career in the insurance industry, Jordan brings a wealth of experience in property and casualty insurance. He has experience in both c…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Life, Health and Variable Annuities
  • 10+ insurance experience
Author profile picture

Erica Alderete

Customer Service Manager

Erica began at The Zebra in 2020 as a Licensed Service Agent, bringing six years of insurance experience from her career at Progressive where she spe…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • 10+ years in the insurance industry
Sources
  1. Methodology. The Zebra

  2. Does Car Insurance Cover Scratches and Dents? Legal Clarity

  3. 4 Types of Car Scratches and How Much Their Repairs Typically Cost. Veteran Car Donations

  4. How Much is Pantless Dent Repair for Hail Damage? CGAA

  5. What does the Auto Club Cosmetic Plan include? Insure One

RECENT QUESTIONS

Other people are also asking...

Will my auto insurance cover damage to a fifth-wheel camper, or should I use my RV insurance?

I'm so sorry to hear about your accident!  The best thing to do would be to contact your RV insurance claims department to see how they want to handle the claim. How this claim pays out will be dependent on the details of the accident. They can refer you to your auto insurance claims departmen…
Jul 21, 2022 Leakesville, MS

I swerved to miss a deer in the road, wrecked my car, and now my insurance company is saying that I'm considered at fault. Why is that?

Hitting an animal in the road falls under the category of a comprehensive insurance claim because animals do not follow road laws and can't be expected to avoid cars or roadways. It's the same general principle as hail damage. The incident changes to an at fault accident when you swerve t…
Apr 10, 2016 Newton, KS

Will filing a full glass coverage claim to repair my windshield cause my premiums to rise or count as a claim at renewal?

While excessive claims can cause your rate to increase or impact your ability to find coverage with other companies, one single glass claim is unlikely to cause much, if any, impact. Generally, glass claims are the least likely to cause a rate increase or a non-renewal with your current company. If…
Jul 27, 2017 Wallingford, CT

Can I group multiple accidents into one claim?

Unfortunately, you would be filing a collision claim which would be categorized by your insurer as an at-fault accident. This will likely cause your rate to increase. And since you have damage to two different areas of your vehicle that came from separate incidents, your insurance company will requ…
Nov 19, 2017 Sacramento, California

About The Zebra

The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.

  • The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
  • The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
  • The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
  • The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.