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Learn more about a Scratch & Dent Plan

What is a Scratch and Dent Plan?

A Scratch and Dent Plan is a protection product that covers the repair of minor cosmetic damage to your vehicle, such as small scratches, dents, chips, and scuffs. It helps keep your car looking good without paying large out-of-pocket repair costs.

What does a Scratch & Dent Plan cover?

Minor cosmetic damage: small scratches and dents, stone chips, bumper scuffs and minor interior repairs.

What isn’t covered?

Accident damage, major panel beating, structural repairs, rust and mechanical breakdowns.

Is a Scratch and Dent Plan worth it?

Yes, especially if you park in public areas or drive daily. Even small cosmetic repairs can cost thousands of rand. A plan spreads that cost into affordable monthly payments.

How much does it cost to fix scratches and dents in South Africa?

Repair costs vary, but minor scratch or dent repairs can range from a few thousand rand per panel, depending on severity and paintwork.

Can I claim for pre-existing damage?

Some Scratch and Dent Plans allow limited claims for pre-existing cosmetic damage, depending on inspection requirements and plan terms.

Is a Scratch & Dent Plan the same as car insurance?

No. Car insurance covers accidents, theft and major damage; a Scratch & Dent Plan covers minor cosmetic repairs only.

Does Insurance cover scratches and dents?

Insurance may cover cosmetic damage if it results from an accident, but you may need to pay an excess. A Scratch and Dent Plan is designed for smaller, everyday damage without affecting your insurance premiums.

Can I use any repairer for scratch and dent repairs?

Repairs can be completed at any approved repair centre within South Africa.

How many claims can I make?

Claims are subject to quarterly limits on the plans offered through MotorHappy, and there’s no excess to pay.

Is there a waiting period before I can claim?

Yes, there is a 30-day waiting period after the first successful debit order before claims can be submitted.

Will a Scratch and Dent Plan improve my car’s resale value?

Yes. Maintaining your car’s cosmetic appearance can increase resale value and buyer confidence.

Does a Scratch and Dent Plan cover hail damage?

No. Hail damage is covered under Comprehensive Car Insurance, not cosmetic repair plans.

Are bumper scuffs covered?

Yes, minor bumper scuffs are commonly covered, subject to size and depth, limitations apply.

Can I get a Scratch and Dent Plan for a used car?

Most definitely, these plans are perfect for used vehicles, to keep it looking in showroom condition.

What is considered minor damage?

Minor damage usually includes:

  • Surface scratches (upto 15cm)
  • Small dents without paint cracking
  • Chips within size limits
Is there an excess on scratch and dent claims?

No there is no excess payment required when claiming on the Scratch and Dent Plan.

Can I cancel my Scratch and Dent Plan?

Yes, you can cancel the plan at any time by giving us at least twenty (20) Business Days’ notice.

Does a Scratch and Dent Plan cover alloy wheel damage?

Yes, restoration of the vehicles wheel rims or mags wheels is covered if they sustain scratches, stone chips, or paint defects.

Who should consider a Scratch and Dent Plan?

A Scratch and Dent Plan is ideal for:

  • Daily commuters
  • Drivers who park in malls or public areas
  • People who want to protect resale value
  • New car owners wanting cosmetic protection
Is a Scratch and Dent Plan worth it in South Africa?

Yes, a Scratch and Dent Plan can be worth it if you want affordable protection against minor cosmetic damage such as scratches, dents, and bumper scuffs. These repairs can be expensive when paid out-of-pocket, so a monthly plan helps spread the cost.

Why do people buy Scratch and Dent Plans?

Drivers often buy Scratch and Dent Plans to:

  • Avoid paying large repair costs for minor damage
  • Maintain the vehicle’s appearance
  • Protect resale value
  • Avoid claiming from insurance for small repairs
When is a Scratch and Dent Plan most useful?

A Scratch and Dent Plan is most useful if you:

  • Park in shopping centres or public areas
  • Drive daily in busy cities
  • Want to keep your car looking new
  • Plan to sell your car in the future
Does a Scratch and Dent Plan save money?

It can save money over time because minor cosmetic repairs can cost thousands of rands per panel. A plan allows you to repair damage without paying the full repair cost each time.

What is the difference between a Scratch and Dent Plan and Car Insurance?

A Scratch and Dent Plan covers minor cosmetic damage like scratches, small dents, and bumper scuffs.

Car Insurance covers larger events such as accidents, theft, hail damage, and major repairs.

Should I claim scratches from Insurance?

Most drivers avoid claiming minor scratches from Insurance because:

  • You must pay an excess
  • Your premium may increase
  • It affects your claims history

A Scratch and Dent Plan can help handle smaller cosmetic repairs instead.

Can I have both Insurance and a Scratch and Dent Plan?

Yes, many drivers have both. Insurance protects against major incidents, while a Scratch and Dent Plan helps with everyday cosmetic damage.

How much does it cost to repair a scratch on a car in South Africa?

The cost of repairing a car scratch depends on the size and depth of the damage. Minor scratches can cost thousands of rands to repair.

Why are scratch repairs so expensive?

Scratch repairs can be expensive because they often involve:

  • Sanding the damaged area
  • Repainting the panel
  • Blending paint to match the original colour
  • Labour costs
Can small scratches be repaired without repainting the panel?

Yes, some minor scratches can be repaired using polishing or touch-up techniques. However, deeper scratches usually require professional paint repair.

Is it cheaper to fix scratches yourself?

DIY repair kits can work for very small surface scratches, but deeper damage usually requires professional repair to match the original paint.

What is a cosmetic car protection plan?

It is a Scratch and Dent Plan that helps cover the repair costs for minor vehicle damage such as scratches, dents, chips, and scuffs.

Are cosmetic protection plans affordable?

Many Scratch and Dent Plans are designed to be affordable and are paid monthly, making it easier for drivers to manage repair costs.

What do cosmetic car protection plans usually cover?

Scratch and Dent Plans cover:

  • Minor dents
  • Scratches
  • Stone chips
  • Bumper scuffs

Coverage depends on the specific plan.

Why do used car owners buy a Scratch and Dent Plan?

Used car owners often buy cosmetic protection to:

  • Improve the vehicle’s appearance
  • Protect resale value
  • Repair existing minor damage
  • Avoid expensive panel repairs