Every guide is grounded in real repair work at our Plano shop and technically reviewed by founder Vytas Kucinskas before it carries the reviewed label. Sources and review dates are shown on every page.
A proper pre-return inspection reads every exterior panel under reflection lighting and records size, depth and paint condition per item, then covers glass, wheels and tires, lamps, trim, interior, warning lights and equipment such as both key fobs.
Know your two nearest covered parking decks before a warning is issued, and go to the nearest hard cover rather than the best one.
Ask which wear standard applies, how dents are measured, which items are chargeable versus normal wear, whether you will receive the report and photographs, how long you have to repair, whether repairs need re-inspection, whether independent shops are accepted, whether items can…
About once a year is a sensible default, ideally before spring storm season, plus a check after any new hail event and before you sell, trade or return a lease.
Often, yes. Missed shallow dents, high spots from over-pushing and mild waviness can usually be improved substantially by a more experienced technician.
Often yes. Quarter-panel dents with intact paint are repaired without refinishing every day, including full hail damage across the panel.
Only if you carry rental reimbursement, which is optional coverage separate from comprehensive.
Refinishing is correct when the metal can be brought back to shape but the paint is cracked, chipped or the area was previously filled.
Inspect and accept your own vehicle first, then return the rental the same day.
Usually yes. Roof skins respond well to paintless dent repair, and a high dent count on its own is not a reason to replace the panel.
Check three things before cashing out. Confirm whether your lender or leasing company allows it, since financed and leased vehicles often require repair.
Treat it as a normal lease return with a tighter clock. Damage beyond your wear allowance gets charged at dealer retail rates, and hail damage has to be repaired before turn-in regardless.
Send us photos of the damage or schedule an inspection at the Plano shop — we'll tell you honestly what your vehicle needs, what it should cost, and whether a claim makes sense.
Someone from the team will get back to you. If it is urgent, call (866) 336-8767 and you will reach the Plano shop.
