I scratched my own Mini.. I did it by opening the driver's door before releasing the seatbelt. The seatbelt buckle shot out of the door and clanged on the back panel, causing a scratch. Be warned.

 

Thanks for the warning! I think 99% of the time I usually unbuckle before opening the door, but now I won't even do it 1% of the time!

 

The first scratch is always the worst!

 

^^This is true.

 

I always hold my belt buckle to its resting space.
If you let it go in the MB Sprinter, it attacks the window.

 

Wow, who would have guessed that. With the cross strap, wouldn't the belt get caught on your left arm when you release it? Or is there still enough spring that when you unhook your arm it can contact the outside body?

I never gave this much thought as I usually release my belt while the driver door is still shut, but I do recall on occasion the buckle smacking the door panel when released.

Definitely going to have to file this advice in my memory bank (or what's left of it )