After a minor fender bender or a parking lot scrape, it can be tempting to shrug off the damage and delay repairs. However, even apparently small issues with your vehicle’s exterior can lead to much bigger problems. At Hance’s Uptown Collision Center, we can flawlessly repair auto body damage before it escalates into a more costly issue. These seemingly minor auto body issues are worth addressing as soon as possible. Paint Scratches that Can Lead to Rust A shallow scratch in your car’s paint might seem like a minor cosmetic issue, but it can compromise your vehicle’s protective finish. Once the paint is broken, moisture and oxygen can reach the metal surface, leading to corrosion. Left unchecked, rust can spread beneath the surface, weaken structural components, and cost far more to repair. Dents that May Hide Structural Damage A small dent might not immediately raise any red flags, but even light impacts can cause damage that’s not visible from the outside. Beneath the surface, parts of the body panel or crumple zones could be affected. An experienced auto body technician can assess whether there’s more going on than meets the eye. Bumper Damage that Can Affect Safety Systems Today’s bumpers do more than absorb minor impacts—they often house sensors for systems like parking assist and collision warning. A cracked or loose bumper might look like an aesthetic concern, but if any embedded sensors are misaligned or damaged, it could compromise the effectiveness of these advanced safety features. Misaligned Panels that Could Affect Aerodynamics If a collision causes your hood, trunk, or doors to sit unevenly, it may not just be a matter of appearance. Misaligned panels can disrupt your vehicle’s aerodynamics, leading to decreased fuel-efficiency. They can also allow water to seep into places it shouldn’t, potentially damaging interior materials over time. Auto Body Repair in Plano, TX When you need auto body repair in Plano and the surrounding area, contact Hance’s Uptown Collision Center at  (469) 840-9377  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!