Here's How Hail Damage Can Be Dangerous to Your Vehicle

When you see those supercooled ice balls bouncing around, you might wonder if hail is dangerous for your vehicle. The answer depends largely on where you live. Colorado and Texas alone account for 37% of hail insurance claims in the U.S.

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Potential Damage from Hailstorms

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Storms with strong winds can produce anything from tiny hail pellets to ice balls the size of grapefruits. In minutes, your vehicle could suffer:

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• Cracked windshields and side windows.
• Broken headlights and damaged side mirrors.
• Dented car trim and entire car surface.
• Interior damage from water infiltration.

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According to Auto Trends, the average cost for automobile hail repairs is about $2,500, depending on the severity of the damage. If you have comprehensive insurance, hail damage is likely covered, but prompt repairs are crucial to preserve your vehicle's integrity. Here are the dangers of ignoring vehicle hail damage and why timely repairs are essential.

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Don't Delay Repairs

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If you live in a hail-prone state like Colorado, you might think it’s better to wait until storm season ends to file a single insurance claim. However, this is considered insurance fraud and could result in your hail damage claim being denied. Filing one claim for several damage incidents is illegal.

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Hail damage can weaken your vehicle's body. Subsequent hailstorms can further reduce its integrity and increase repair costs. If you have an open claim and another storm causes more damage, inform your insurance company. They will assess and handle the additional damage under one deductible.

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Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Glass

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Hail can cause severe cosmetic damage to your vehicle's glass, impacting structural integrity. Ignoring cracks, chips, or breaks can worsen the damage and increase the danger of driving.

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Driving with damaged glass may not be legally compliant. Colorado Revised Statute §42-4-227 prohibits using a vehicle with view obstructions, including cracks or damage in front of the driver. Glass damage must be repaired to ensure road safety and legal compliance.

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Structural Damage

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Though less common, hailstorms can cause structural damage. Severe hail can dent the hood and damage the engine compartment. In such cases, you can have Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) for the exterior and visit a traditional auto repair shop for mechanical issues.

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Beware of repair scams offering cut-rate deals post-storm. Verify the legitimacy and quality of the repair service through online reviews.

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Body Dents

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Dents from hail can be repaired using PDR, which involves massaging the dent from behind the car panels. This quick and efficient process preserves the vehicle’s original paint finish and integrity.

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Scratched or Chipped Paint

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Hail can also scratch or chip your vehicle’s paint, compromising the finish. These areas must be repainted, and some panels may need replacement. This is a more costly repair due to paint matching and increased labor.

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Water Damage to the Interior

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Hail can cause water damage to the vehicle’s interior if it cracks or shatters the glass. Take photos of your vehicle’s interior and exterior immediately after the storm and file a hail damage insurance claim promptly. Comprehensive coverage will ensure your loss is paid.

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DIY Repairs May Devalue Your Vehicle

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DIY dent repair kits may seem cost-effective, but handling hail damage repairs requires training and specialized tools. DIY repairs can:

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• Increase damage, making dents larger.
• Scratch the paint or warp the metal.
• Compromise the internal structure.
• Void the factory paint warranty.
• Lower the vehicle’s resale value.

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Impact on Resale

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Even minor dents can affect a vehicle's structural integrity. When purchasing a hail-damaged car, ensure it has a professional appraisal and repairs. Private sellers may not disclose all damage, so obtain an electronic vehicle history report and confirm insurability with your insurance company.

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Selling a vehicle with hail damage will fetch a lower price. Potential buyers will negotiate for a lower price to cover repair costs.

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Protect Your Vehicle's Integrity

Understanding how hail damage impacts your vehicle helps you take the right steps for repairs. At 48-Hour Auto Hail Repair, our experienced technicians ensure your vehicle's integrity is protected.

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We offer two free estimate options: a 3-Minute and a 1-Hour Custom. Our services include 48-hour hail damage repair, a free rental car, detailing services, cracked windshield repair, claim handling, and a lifetime repair warranty.

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Don’t delay. Call (720) 734-5148 to start the repair process and protect your vehicle's integrity and resale value.

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