Frequently Asked Questions

Paintless dent removal works when the paint isn't cracked and the dent is accessible from behind the panel. It preserves your factory finish, costs less, and gets completed faster than repainting. This method maintains resale value by avoiding paint mismatch that buyers notice during inspections.

Most hail dents are shallow impacts that don't crack paint, making them ideal for paintless dent removal techniques. Technicians access dents from behind panels and massage them out using specialized tools. Multiple dents across the roof, hood, and trunk get addressed in one session without affecting your original finish.

Reconditioning combines minor scratch repair, interior touch-ups, and exterior restoration to meet lease return standards. The process addresses visible wear that triggers penalty fees—scuffed bumpers, door dings, and interior marks. Reconditioning costs significantly less than dealer-assessed damage charges at lease end.

Missouri's summer heat and direct sun create cabin temperatures over 140 degrees in parked vehicles. Window tint blocks heat transfer and reduces glare while driving, making the interior more comfortable. Tinting also prevents dashboard cracking and seat fading caused by prolonged UV exposure.

Small to medium collision damage including damaged bumpers, dented panels, and minor structural components get repaired at independent collision shops. Dealer's Choice handles insurance claims directly and uses the same repair techniques dealerships use. Turnaround is often faster because independent shops manage fewer administrative layers.

Cracks shorter than a dollar bill and chips smaller than a quarter typically qualify for repair. Damage in the driver's direct sight line, cracks reaching the windshield edge, or deep chips that penetrate multiple glass layers require full replacement. Repairing early prevents cracks from spreading due to temperature changes.

Collision repair fixes structural and functional damage from accidents—bent panels, misaligned parts, and compromised safety components. Vehicle refinishing focuses on cosmetic appearance through sanding, repainting, and color matching after repairs are complete. Most collision jobs require both processes to restore the vehicle fully.

Paintless dent removal works as long as the paint isn't cracked at the dent site, regardless of overall paint condition. Faded or oxidized paint doesn't affect the technician's ability to access and reshape the metal. The process won't improve existing paint fade, but it won't make it worse either.

Parts replacement drives collision repair costs more than labor in most cases. OEM parts, structural damage requiring frame work, and paint matching across multiple panels add significant expense. Insurance coverage, deductible amounts, and whether you choose aftermarket or original parts also impact your out-of-pocket cost.

Dealer's Choice offers first responder and military discounts on auto reconditioning, collision repair, and bodywork services. The discount applies to labor and service fees, helping reduce out-of-pocket costs for qualifying customers. Bring valid ID or credentials when scheduling to confirm eligibility.

Polish removes light imperfections and blends repaired areas into the surrounding finish, making the repair less visible. It also applies a protective layer that extends the new paint's lifespan. Adding polish as a final step ensures the entire vehicle looks consistent rather than showing a clear repair line.

Dealer's Choice specializes exclusively in cosmetic and body damage to deliver faster turnaround and higher quality in that area. Focusing on bodywork, dents, paint, and glass allows the shop to handle high volume efficiently without splitting attention across unrelated services. Mechanical issues require referral to a dedicated mechanic.