What type of damage is a crease?

• A. A sharp dent line in the metal
• B. A shallow scratch in the clear coat
• C. A small bend at the edge
• D. A surface ripple

Answer: (A)

A crease is a line-like deformation in the metal created when the panel is compressed or bent along a straight path, producing a sharp boundary that looks like a crease. This kind of damage forms a distinct, narrow line in the metal, often with some stretching around it, and is more severe than a simple dent or a paint issue. That’s why the description “a sharp dent line in the metal” fits best: you can see a defined line across the surface, not just a surface defect or an edge bend. A shallow scratch affects only the clear coat, a small bend at the edge changes the edge geometry rather than creating a straight interior crease, and a surface ripple is a wavy texture—none of which match the characteristic line of a crease. Repairing a crease typically requires straightening the line with hammer and dolly, shrinking as needed to restore the panel’s flatness and contour before refinishing.