Auto Body Repair Vocabulary: A Quick Overview of Some Common Terms

Hailstorms can leave behind more than just minor dents and dings on your vehicle. Even if the damage looks cosmetic, postponing repairs can lead to larger and more expensive problems down the road. Acting quickly ensures your vehicle stays in good condition and saves you from future headaches. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert automotive hail damage repair in the greater Colorado Springs and Pueblo, CO areas. Here are five reasons why it's important to repair hail damage without delay. Prevents Rust and Corrosion Hail dents often cause small cracks in the paint, leaving the underlying metal exposed to moisture. Over time, this can lead to rust and corrosion, which weakens your car’s body. What starts as a small dent can eventually spread into a larger issue that requires costly bodywork. Prompt repair keeps your vehicle protected from long-term damage. Avoids Insurance Complications Insurance companies typically have deadlines for filing hail damage claims. By getting repairs done promptly, you ensure your insurance claim is processed smoothly and that the cost is handled before they argue that it has become your responsibility. Maintains Vehicle Appearance Your car is one of the first things people notice about you, and hail damage can make it look poorly maintained. Fixing the dents quickly restores your vehicle’s appearance and gives you peace of mind when driving it. Professional repair methods, such as paintless dent removal, can make your car look as good as new without extensive bodywork. Prevents Higher Repair Costs Later Delaying hail damage repairs often means the problem gets worse. Paint cracks can expand and rust can spread, turning a simple fix into a bigger repair job. Addressing the damage right away is more affordable and saves you from unnecessary expenses in the future. Protects Resale Value A car covered in hail dents instantly loses resale appeal. Potential buyers or dealerships see visible damage as a sign of neglect, even if the vehicle runs perfectly. Repairing hail damage right away helps preserve your vehicle’s appearance and enables you to maintain maximum resale value. Automotive Hail Damage Repair in Colorado Springs & Pueblo, CO For car hail damage repair in Colorado Springs and Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Kansas weather is no joke — Wichita drivers know all too well that spring and summer hailstorms can leave vehicles covered in dents and dings overnight. Thankfully, Wichita is home to several highly rated auto hail and paintless dent repair (PDR) shops. To help you decide where to take your car, we compared local businesses using a mix of certifications, experience, insurance relationships, customer reputation, and time serving the community. How We Ranked These Shops Wichita vehicle owners care most about fast, affordable, insurance-friendly hail and dent repair. We scored businesses on the following criteria I-CAR Gold Certification & Technician Training – 30% Years Serving Wichita / Kansas Vehicle Owners – 25% Insurance Company Relationships – 20% Local Ownership & Community Ties – 15% Customer Reputation & Service Transparency – 10%

Keeping your car’s exterior in pristine condition is one of the best ways to maintain its value and appearance. Scratches not only take away from the sleek look of your vehicle, but can also expose the paint to further damage from rust and corrosion. If your vehicle does get scratched, the repairs should be done promptly. Otherwise, you risk rust causing significant issues. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert car scratch repair in the greater Pueblo, CO area. While some scratches may be out of your control, many can be prevented with proper care and awareness. By following a few practical steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of scratches and help keep your car looking like new. Wash Your Car the Right Way One of the most common causes of scratches comes from improper washing techniques. Using old sponges or dirty rags can leave fine scratches across your paint. To avoid this, wash your car by hand with a microfiber mitt and a two-bucket method—one bucket for soapy water and one for rinsing. This reduces the risk of dirt particles scratching the surface while cleaning. Be Careful Where You Park Parking location plays a big role in whether or not your car gets scratched. Crowded parking lots, tight spaces, or parking too close to shopping carts all increase the chances of accidental damage. Whenever possible, choose a spot farther away from heavy foot traffic or park in a spacious garage to minimize risks. Being mindful of where you leave your vehicle can go a long way toward preventing dings and scratches. Avoid Placing Items on the Car It may seem harmless to set a bag, box, or even your keys on the hood or roof for a moment, but this habit can lead to scratches and scuffs. Even small particles of dirt trapped underneath an item can leave noticeable marks when the object is moved. To prevent this, try to make it a rule never to place anything on your car’s surface, no matter how brief. Apply High-Quality Wax Adding a layer of protection to your vehicle’s paint can significantly reduce the risk of scratches. High-quality wax helps create a barrier that makes the paint more resistant to minor abrasions. Regular application of wax keeps your car looking polished while safeguarding against scratches. Car Scratch Repair in Pueblo, CO For expert auto body repair in Pueblo and Colorado Springs, visit our team at Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center . Our local body shop can restore your vehicle to pristine condition. Give us a call to schedule an appointment!

Even if your vehicle seems to have escaped a minor accident with only a few scratches or dents, there may be underlying damage you can’t see. The car’s frame plays a crucial role in its safety and performance, and even a low-speed collision can compromise its integrity. Having the frame inspected promptly after a minor accident can help you avoid more serious problems down the road. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert car frame inspection and repair in Pueblo and Colorado Springs. Here are four important reasons to make that inspection a priority. Hidden Damage Can Affect Safety A car’s frame is designed to absorb impact and protect occupants during a crash. Even a small misalignment caused by a minor accident can weaken its ability to perform in future collisions. If the damage isn’t visible, you might not realize your car’s crash protection has been compromised. A professional inspection ensures that the structural integrity is intact and that your vehicle remains safe to drive. Small Alignment Issues Can Lead to Bigger Problems When a frame is slightly bent or twisted, it can throw off your vehicle’s alignment. This may cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and increased strain on suspension components. These issues might not appear immediately but can lead to costly repairs over time. An inspection can catch these problems early, allowing for corrections before they cause additional trouble. Preserve Vehicle Value If you ever decide to sell or trade in your car, a history of unaddressed frame damage can lower its value significantly. Buyers and dealerships are wary of vehicles with unresolved structural issues. By getting your car’s frame inspected and repaired after even a minor accident, you help maintain its resale value and promote a clean bill of health for potential buyers. Peace of Mind on the Road Driving a vehicle with potential frame damage can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure about its safety. A thorough frame inspection by a qualified technician can give you confidence that your car is structurally sound. Knowing your vehicle is safe and reliable allows you to focus on the road ahead without worrying about hidden damage from a past accident. Automotive Frame Repair in Colorado Springs and Pueblo, CO For expert collision repair in Colorado Springs and Pueblo , contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

If your car is insured and the hail damage is moderate or severe, yes—it's usually worth fixing. Repairs through your comprehensive insurance policy typically mean you'll only pay your deductible, which is often around $250–$750 depending on your plan. On the flip side, if you're uninsured, or driving an older vehicle with minor cosmetic dents, it may not be financially necessary to fix the damage right away. To help you make a smart decision, here’s a quick decision tree to guide you through the most common situations: Why It Usually Makes Financial Sense to Repair Hail Damage If your vehicle is covered by a comprehensive insurance policy, fixing hail damage is almost always the smart financial move. Hail repair is one of the most commonly covered claims in Colorado, and most policies only require you to pay a deductible ranging from $250 to $750. The rest? That’s picked up by your insurance company. Hail is Covered Under Comprehensive Insurance Unlike collisions, hail damage falls under “acts of nature”, which means it’s handled through comprehensive, not liability, coverage. If your car is insured and you've filed a hail claim before, you already know the drill: pay your deductible, and your insurer covers the rest. Tip: Even if your deductible is $500 or more, you may not have to pay it out of pocket. Ask your repair shop if they offer deductible assistance. Unrepaired Damage Hurts Resale and Trade-In Value Hail dents might not seem like a big deal, but they absolutely lower the value of your vehicle. Most dealerships will deduct $1,000–$3,000 from a trade-in offer if they see visible hail damage, and sometimes even more for SUVs and trucks with large surface areas. Even if you plan to keep the car for now, those dents don’t disappear. Down the road, you’ll still be facing resale penalties or repainting costs. Besides, any rust that forms around the damage will cost far more to fix than a quick PDR (paintless dent repair) job would today. When skipping hail repairs might make sense Repairing hail damage is a smart move in most situations, especially if your car is insured and the damage is noticeable. But there are some cases where you might reasonably decide to hold off. Let’s walk through the most common ones. ● You’re driving an older vehicle - If your car is already ten to fifteen years old and has other cosmetic issues or mechanical wear, hail damage might not change its value all that much. ● You don’t have comprehensive insurance - Without the right coverage, you’re responsible for the full cost of repair. At that point, it’s worth weighing the repair cost against the vehicle’s actual value. ● The damage is minor and purely cosmetic - A few shallow dents with no paint damage won’t affect performance. While they might slightly reduce resale value, they may not be worth fixing on a vehicle you plan to keep for a while. ● You’re planning to donate, scrap, or retire the car - If your vehicle’s nearing the end of its useful life, it may not make financial sense to put money into repairs, even if the damage is noticeable. For many people, this ties into whether they have a comprehensive policy

After a collision or even a small fender bender, car frame damage might not be immediately obvious. In fact, some drivers may continue driving without realizing their vehicle’s structural integrity has been compromised. Even when the damage appears minor, ignoring it can lead to serious safety risks and costlier repairs. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert car frame repair in the greater Pueblo, CO area. Here are four important reasons to fix car frame damage as soon as possible. Hidden Safety Risks The most important reason to address frame damage promptly is to help ensure your safety. A damaged frame can weaken your car’s ability to absorb impact in the event of another collision. This increases the risk of injury to the driver and passengers, even in accidents that would otherwise be considered minor. A strong, intact frame helps keep the vehicle's structure stable and plays a key role in protecting everyone inside. Worsening Alignment and Handling Issues Even slight frame damage can affect your vehicle’s alignment. If the frame is misaligned, you may notice the car pulling to one side or uneven tire wear. These issues not only make driving more difficult but can also lead to faster wear on your tires and suspension system. Fixing the frame can help restore proper alignment, making your vehicle safer and more comfortable to drive. Long-Term Structural Weakness Ignoring frame damage allows minor issues to develop into more serious structural problems over time. Cracks can spread, rust can form, and stress can build up in key areas of the frame. As the integrity of the frame continues to deteriorate, repairs become more expensive and complicated. Prompt repairs help stop the damage from spreading and preserve your vehicle’s long-term structural strength. Reduced Resale Value If you plan to sell or trade in your car, unresolved frame damage can significantly reduce its value. Buyers and dealerships will often run a vehicle history report or perform an inspection that reveals past damage. A car with frame issues is less desirable and may be more difficult to sell. Fixing the damage now can help retain your vehicle’s resale value and market appeal in the future. Automotive Frame Repair in Pueblo, CO For collision repair in Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . At our nearby body shop, we can expertly fix your vehicle’s collision damage. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Even minor paint damage on your car might seem like a purely cosmetic issue, but ignoring it can lead to much bigger problems. Taking care of paint issues right away is an important part of vehicle maintenance. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert car paint repair in the greater Pueblo, CO area. Here are four reasons why it’s worth addressing car paint damage as soon as it appears. Prevents Rust Formation Your car’s paint doesn’t just make it look good—it also serves as a protective barrier against moisture and corrosive elements. When that protective layer is compromised, bare metal becomes exposed to rain, salt, and humidity. Over time, this exposure leads to rust, which can spread beneath the surface and cause structural damage. Fixing chips and scratches early helps prevent rust from forming and spreading. Maintains Your Car’s Value Paint damage can significantly reduce your vehicle’s resale or trade-in value. Potential buyers often view scratches, chips, and fading paint as signs of neglect, even if the car is mechanically sound. A well-maintained exterior creates a better first impression and helps preserve the market value of your car. Promptly repairing paint flaws keeps your vehicle looking newer for longer. Improves Vehicle Appearance Your car’s exterior is the first thing people notice. Paint damage detracts from its appearance, making even a newer vehicle look worn or uncared for. Whether you're meeting clients or just out running errands, a sleek-looking car helps you make a better impression. Touching up or repainting damaged areas restores your vehicle’s shine. Protects Against Environmental Damage Pollutants like bird droppings, tree sap, and road salt can eat away at unprotected surfaces, making existing paint damage worse. Once your car’s paint has been compromised, it becomes more vulnerable to these environmental threats. Repairing the damage quickly helps shield your vehicle from further harm. Auto Painting & Auto Paint Repair in Pueblo, CO For auto painting services in Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . At our nearby body shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment !

Getting into a car accident can be a stressful and disorienting experience. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can help protect your safety, your rights, and your finances. Remaining calm and handling the situation methodically will make the process easier. Here are five important things you should do following a car accident. Check for Injuries/Take Safety Precautions The first and most important step after an accident is to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services right away. If the vehicles are in a dangerous location and can be safely moved, relocate them to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. If the cars cannot be moved, turn on your hazard lights and stay in a safe area while waiting for help. Call the Police Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always a good idea to call the police. Having a police report on file is important for insurance claims. When officers arrive, stick to the facts and let the authorities document the scene. This report can be a crucial piece of evidence in determining responsibility. Exchange Information You’ll want to exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident. This includes names, phone numbers, insurance details, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers. If there are witnesses nearby, try to get their contact information as well. It’s also helpful to note the make and model of the other vehicle, the location of the accident, and the time it occurred. This information will be important when filing your insurance claim. Document the Scene Use your phone to take clear photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This documentation helps support your version of events and can make the claims process smoother. Be thorough with your photos and take them from multiple angles. If you can, jot down notes about what happened while the details are still fresh in your mind. Notify Your Insurance Company As soon as it’s safe to do so, contact your insurance company to report the accident. Provide all the information and documentation you’ve gathered, including the police report number if available. Your insurer will guide you through the next steps, including how to get an estimate for repairs. But it’s important to remember that you’re the one who gets to decide where the repairs are done. Collision Repair in Pueblo, CO When you need collision repair in Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When a hailstorm hits, it can leave your car covered in dents and dings that seem like they’ll require major bodywork to repair. However, in many cases, paintless dent repair—also known as PDR—offers an efficient, cost-effective solution. Especially for hail damage, PDR has become a preferred method among professionals and vehicle owners alike. At Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center, we provide expert PDR in the greater Pueblo, CO area. Here are four reasons why paintless dent repair is a great option for fixing hail damage on your car. Preserves Your Car’s Original Paint One of the top advantages of paintless dent repair is that it keeps your car’s factory paint intact. Hail dents often don’t crack the paint, so PDR allows technicians to work the dent out from behind the panel without disturbing the finish. This helps maintain your vehicle’s original appearance. Preserving the factory paint also helps protect your vehicle from corrosion. Saves Time Compared to Traditional Repairs Conventional bodywork can take several days—or sometimes even weeks—especially if repainting or part replacement is involved. In contrast, paintless dent repair is much faster. Since it doesn’t require sanding, fillers, or paint, many hail dents can be repaired in just a few hours or within a day. This is especially beneficial if you rely on your car for daily transportation and need it back quickly after a storm. Costs Less Than Conventional Bodywork Paintless dent repair is typically less expensive than traditional repair methods. Without the need for costly materials like paint and fillers or labor-intensive processes, the overall cost of PDR is reduced. Insurance companies often prefer PDR for hail damage because of the lower expense, and many policies will cover the repair. If you’re paying out of pocket, PDR offers an affordable way to restore your car’s appearance without breaking the bank. Retains Vehicle Value Dents and dings, even if cosmetic, can reduce your car’s resale value. Paintless dent repair helps restore the exterior without compromising the vehicle’s structural integrity or finish. Because the original paint is left untouched and no aftermarket parts are involved, the car retains its factory value. Paintless Dent Repair in Pueblo, CO For paintless dent repair in Pueblo and the surrounding area, contact Pro-Masters Auto Collision & Hail Center at  719-543-4393  . At our local body shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s cosmetic needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!