Should I File an Insurance Claim for New Car Scratches?
2 Answers
Determine whether to file an insurance claim based on the severity of the scratches. If the scratches are severe and require costly repairs, it is advisable to file an insurance claim. Here are the methods for handling scratches: 1. Hairline Scratches: Hairline scratches can usually be removed by polishing or applying a rubbing compound. Simply wiping gently will make the scratches disappear. 2. Light Scratches: For light scratches, a tube of toothpaste is sufficient. Toothpaste is highly effective for shallow scratches that haven’t damaged the car’s primer. It works particularly well for removing traces left by other vehicles’ paint during minor collisions or sticky residues from adhesive products. Most of these marks can be completely wiped away. 3. Moderate to Deep Scratches: Moderate and deep scratches cannot be repaired by polishing. If the dent is small (less than 5mm), it can be leveled with filler before repainting.
When dealing with scratches on a new car, my primary concern is cost. As a budget-conscious car owner, filing an insurance claim for new car scratches might sound good, but in reality, it may not be cost-effective. Insurance premiums increase after a claim, and if the scratch is minor, paying out-of-pocket for repairs might only cost a few hundred yuan. In contrast, the premium hikes over the next few years after an insurance payout could end up costing more, making it a net loss. Most scratches on new cars are shallow and can be easily polished out, unlike deep dents that require major repairs. Last time my car door panel got scratched, a small repair shop fixed it for 200 yuan, saving me the hassle of dealing with insurance. My advice is to first take photos and get a repair estimate from a shop, then compare it with your insurance policy. For minor damages, don’t rush to file a claim—otherwise, your wallet might suffer more in the long run. Remember, while a new car has high value, don’t overuse insurance for small issues—this is a hard-earned lesson. As finance experts say, it’s all about weighing opportunity costs.
