Simple summary
The problems
• Broken or damaged numberplates are a big turn-off - they make the car look scruffy and neglected
• Poor parking can lead to unsightly black marks. They're highly visible, but don't always need a respray to remove them
• Dents are tricky, because large ones can be difficult to remove, although small ones are easier and cheaper to fix
The remedies
• It doesn't cost much to have a new numberplate made, and it makes buyers much happier about your car
• A quality polish and a bit of elbow grease is all it takes to remove some minor scuffs and scrapes
• Mobile repairers or body shops can easily 'pull out' small dents and dings for that as-new flush finish
Best estate cars 2024 – the top choices for luggage capacity
An estate car needs to be practical, but the best models are also comfortable, well equipped and affordable to run. Here we reveal our top 10 buys – and the estates to steer clear of