Scratch and Dent Repair Cost in 2026
Small dents, dings and scratches can often be fixed panel by panel instead of repainting the whole car. The price depends on how deep the damage goes, whether the paint is broken, how many spots need work, and whether rust has started.
Typical prices
| Job | Price range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minor dent repair, per dent | $50–$150 | aaa.com (2026) |
| Deep scratch, filled and sanded | $150–$300 | aaa.com (2026) |
| Rust repair, per affected area | $150–$500 | aaa.com (2026) |
| Body damage | $100–$2,500 | cluballiance.aaa.com (2024) |
Ranges are as published by each linked source. Your quote depends on the vehicle, the parts and the shop's labour rate — get a written estimate before work starts.
What affects the price
- Depth of the scratch: clear coat only, through the paint, or down to metal
- Whether the paint is cracked, which rules out paintless dent repair
- Size and location of the dent, especially on a body line or panel edge
- Number of damaged spots and panels
- Rust that must be removed before refinishing
- Paint color matching and blending into neighboring panels
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to fix a small dent?
AAA says minor dent repairs typically range from $50 to $150 per dent. Larger dents, creases or broken paint cost more.
How much does it cost to fix a deep scratch?
AAA says deep scratches that need filling and sanding generally run $150 to $300 to fix properly. A light scratch in the clear coat may only need polishing.
Should I fix rust spots before they spread?
Yes. AAA puts rust repair at $150 to $500 per affected area depending on severity, and rust left alone keeps spreading under the paint.