Hailstorms can be scary, especially for car owners. Even the smallest hailstones can leave dents on a vehicle. And let’s not think about the havoc a severe hailstorm can create.
Though you can’t prevent a hailstorm, there are several things you can do to make your repair journey smoother. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential dos and don’ts for handling auto hail damage.
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The Dos of Dealing with Auto Hail Damage
Knowing the right things to do after a hail storm can save you time, money, and future frustration. Here is a list of things you should do to manage hail damage effectively.
1. Assess the Damage Carefully
Once the storm has passed, you need to bolster yourself and examine the car carefully. Assess the extent of the damage, checking for dents, cracks in the glass, chipped paint, etc. Sometimes, minor dents might be hard to see, so you may need to run your hand across the surface and identify the indentations.
2. Take Pictures of the Damage
Insurance claims require thorough documentation, so you will need to show the insurance company proof of the damage. Make sure to take photos of the damage from different angles, paying special attention to the hood, roof, and windshields. You may also want to write a list of the damage. This can speed up the claims process.
3. File an Insurance Claim Promptly
If your auto insurance covers hail damage (usually under comprehensive coverage), file a claim as soon as possible. Waiting too long might complicate matters, especially if your insurance provider requires timely reporting.
When filing, remember to include photos of the damage, repair estimates, details about the hailstorm, etc. Submitting all the documents can streamline the process and ensure you get adequate reimbursement.
4. Keep All the Repair Documentation
When repairing hail damage, make sure to document every stage of the process, from the initial assessment to the final repairs. Include photos of the damage, receipts for all the repairs, and communications with the repair shop and insurance providers. This documentation can help you if there are issues with the repair work or insurance claim.
But that’s not all. If you decide to sell the vehicle later on, these records will show the hail damage was professionally addressed.
5. Choose a Certified Repair Shop
A certified hail repair shop has technicians who specialize in hail repair. They have the skills, experience, and tools to handle hail damage effectively and ensure the repairs meet industry standards.
But keep in mind that not all car repairs are the same. Shops use different techniques and tools depending on the car’s material. So, if your car’s body is made of aluminum, make sure to find one that is certified to repair aluminum cars.
Ideally, choose a repair shop that offers a warranty on repairs. Read reviews or get recommendations to find one with a good reputation and a history of top-notch repairs.
6. Research Your Repair Options
Hail damage can range from minor dents to severe structural damage. Your repair journey will greatly depend on the severity of the damage. If your vehicle has only minor dents and the paint hasn’t been affected, PDR (paintless dent repair) is a great solution. However, PDR may not be suitable for large dents or damage that has cracked the paint. Your only option at this stage is traditional dent repair.
Similarly, windshields with minor chips and cracks can be repaired with a resin injection. But if the cracks are big or the glass is shattered, you will probably have to replace it.
The Don’ts of Dealing with Auto Hail Damage
If you want to make sure your car is repaired properly, don’t do the following:
1. Don’t Ignore the Damage
Ignoring hail damage, even if it seems minor, can lead to bigger problems over time. Small dents and cracks can worsen, especially in extreme weather conditions, and minor issues like chipped paint can lead to rust. Promptly addressing hail damage not only keeps your car looking its best but also prevents costly long-term issues, maintaining your car’s value and performance.
2. Don’t Attempt DIY Fixes
If you’re thinking about trying DIY fixes like PDR suction tools or other home remedies, keep in mind the results are not guaranteed. While they may work on minute dents, you could end up damaging your car further and jacking up the repair costs. Finding professional repairs in your area is a safe bet as they are typically more effective, and better for your vehicle. So, if you live in Texas, it’s a good idea to explore options for specialized paintless dent repair near Killeen, TX, in case of minor dents, to ensure your car gets the right treatment.
3. Don’t Settle for the First Estimate
The cost of repairs can vary depending on the shop, type of damage, and repair method. Getting several quotes from reputable auto body shops can help you make an informed decision about repair costs and options. It also means you won’t end up overpaying or receiving lower-quality repairs.
4. Don’t Rush the Repair Process
It’s natural to want your car back quickly, but rushing the repair process can backfire. Give repair shops the necessary time to work on your car, especially if the damage is extensive. Rushing can lead to subpar results or missed issues that could require additional repairs.
So, trusting the shop’s process and timeline can help ensure the quality of work and your vehicle’s safety. By being patient and understanding, you can ensure that your car is restored to its original condition without any rushed or subpar repairs.
5. Don’t Overlook the Deductible
Some people assume insurance policies cover the entire cost of repairs. However, they forget about the deductible. All policyholders must pay the deductible stated in the contract. So, before filing an insurance claim, be mindful of your deductible amount. If the cost of repairs is close to or less than your deductible, it may be more economical to pay for it out-of-pocket.
6. Don’t Skip a Professional Inspection
Not all hail damage is clearly visible to the untrained eye. So, while it’s great that you’ve assessed the damage personally, you still need to have your car inspected by a professional. They can detect more than just superficial cosmetic issues and identify any hidden damage, including structural damage to the frame and compromised safety features.
Besides prioritizing necessary repairs, the formal inspection from an expert technician is part of the claims process. This not only speeds up the process but also enables you to get the most coverage from your insurance policy.
Over to You
Dealing with hail damage can be overwhelming. But knowing what to do in the aftermath of a storm can make the repair process more simple. The list of dos and don’ts mentioned in this blog will help you transform your car back to its pre-hail glory.
One more tip before I go – monitor the weather, especially during hail season. If a storm is predicted, avoid driving your car in hail-prone areas. Also, take precautions such as covering your car with a hail cover or parking in a sheltered area. After all, preventing damage is easier than fixing it.
