Been driving for 3 years, but I keep scratching my car… what’s going on?

Seeking Advice
1

Hey everyone, I’ve got a question: how often do you scratch your car? I’ve had my license for three years and drive almost daily. I’ve become pretty confident, handling all sorts of conditions—tight parking spots, narrow streets, and busy intersections. I even get compliments from experienced drivers about my skills.

But here’s the problem: I still keep scratching my car, mostly while parking. It’s not major damage, just annoying little scrapes from misjudging a wall or an obstacle. I always think, “I’ve parked a hundred times before; how did I mess this up now?”

What’s weird is, when I talk to friends who drive way less than I do, they rarely seem to have these issues. I’ve got the basics and confidence down, but it feels like I keep tripping up on these small mistakes.

Am I overthinking this, or is there something I’m doing wrong that I need to fix? Does anyone else feel like they’re decent drivers but still make silly errors now and then? I’d love to hear your advice!

2

If you’re hitting stuff while parking, you’re overestimating your skills. Slow it down and focus.

3

Have you had your eyes checked recently? Maybe you need glasses.

4

Ozzie said:
Have you had your eyes checked recently? Maybe you need glasses.

I already wear glasses :joy:

5

Sounds like you’re getting too comfortable and maybe a bit sloppy. It happens to all of us—time to tighten up your habits.

6

Most people don’t actually know where their car starts and ends, so they leave extra room. You sound confident, but maybe that’s leading to overconfidence. At least you’re reflecting on it before anything worse than a scratch happens.

7

If I’m unsure about space when parking, I get out and look. It takes 10 seconds and saves you a lot of money. Maybe check your depth perception—it sounds like it might need some work.

8

Stick some band-aids on the scratches and keep driving. Aloha!

9

Whenever I have doubts while parking, I get out and check. Even with 360° cameras on my truck, I still double-check. You could also have someone guide you or practice with a spotter to improve your awareness. Also, make sure your mirrors and seat position are set up properly—it makes a bigger difference than you’d think.

10

The only scratches on my 4Runner are from tree branches while off-roading. Parking and street driving? No scratches at all. Learn your car better—it’s all about practice.

11

You’re overestimating your abilities. People drive massive trucks in cities without a scratch every day. Take it slow and focus.

12

Are your mirrors adjusted correctly? Sometimes a slight adjustment can give you a better view while parking.

13

Sounds like you’ve got confidence, but maybe not as much skill as you think. Experience and ability aren’t always the same.

14

The only things I’ve hit multiple times are trash cans after garbage pickup. Those things sneak up on you!

15

If you’re scratching your car that often, slow down and practice more. Set up cones in an empty parking lot to learn your car’s blind spots. It really helps visualize the space you can’t see.

16

This isn’t about Toyota—it’s about your driving. Slow down, put your phone away, and practice in an empty lot. It’s not rocket science. I know people who’ve been driving since they were 14 without a single scratch.