How Is Hail Damage Assessed on a Vehicle?

Wondering how hail damage is assessed on a car? Let us guide you through the process and help you understand what to expect.

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Hailstorms cause an average of $15 billion in damage annually to homes, crops, and vehicles. The extent of this damage varies from storm to storm, necessitating a proper assessment to determine the impact.

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If you’ve ever wondered, "How is hail damage assessed on a car?" you’re not alone. The answer depends on several factors, with the main one being the severity of the damage.

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This article breaks down the hail damage assessment process. It will help you understand what happens during evaluations and how it can influence your insurance claims.

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How Hail Damages Vehicles

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To understand how hail damage is assessed, it’s helpful to first look at how hail affects vehicles. Hail forms when ice is propelled upward by strong winds (known as "updrafts") during a thunderstorm. These ice balls grow in size before falling to the ground at high velocity when they become too heavy.

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Hailstones typically range in size from ¼ inch to 4.5 inches, but they can grow much larger. Common damage includes:

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• Dents in the roof, hood, sides, and bumpers of vehicles.
• Cracks or shattered windows.
• Compromised paint, leading to corrosion and rust over time.
• Rarely, damage to internal components like the engine or electrical systems.

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How Is Hail Damage Assessed on a Car?

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When assessing hail damage, it’s best to avoid DIY attempts, as these can exacerbate the damage and potentially void your insurance claim.

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1. Initial Insurance Evaluation

The assessment process often begins with your insurance company. After filing a claim, an adjuster reviews your case and determines the next steps. This may involve hiring appraisers, engineers, or contractors to evaluate the damage.

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2. Comprehensive Inspection

Being present during evaluations can be helpful. It provides an opportunity to ask questions and gather insights. However, insurance adjusters may only provide a preliminary assessment, authorizing a claim but not fully uncovering all damage.

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3. Repair Shop Choice

Your insurer will usually recommend an "in-network" repair shop. While using their suggested shop has advantages, you’re free to choose any repair center. Getting a second opinion ensures repair estimates are accurate and competitive.

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Determining Vehicle Devaluation

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Experienced technicians evaluate several factors during a hail damage assessment:

• Severity of Dents: Sharpness, depth, and creases in the dents.
• Panel Accessibility: Whether technicians can access the reverse side of the affected panel.
• Paint Condition: Damage to the paint influences the repair approach.

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Repair Techniques

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1. Traditional Dent Repair

For extensive damage or inaccessible dents, traditional methods involve:

• Filling dents with plastic resin.
• Sanding, priming, and repainting the area.

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2. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)

Paintless dent repair is used when possible and involves:

• Removing dented panels to access the reverse side.
• Using specialized tools to massage the metal back to its original shape.

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Benefits of PDR:

• Faster and cost-effective.
• Doesn’t require materials like fillers or paint.
• Environmentally friendly.
• Preserves the vehicle’s original metal surface, maintaining durability and value.

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An experienced technician can explain the advantages and limitations of both methods and recommend the best option for your situation.

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Find a Repair Center Near You

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Now that you know how hail damage is assessed, you’ll better understand the process and its impact on your vehicle’s value. Choosing a skilled technician ensures proper repairs and maintains your car’s longevity.

48-Hour Auto Hail Repair offers quality repairs with fast turnaround times. We collaborate with your insurance provider to cover necessary costs and offer up to $1,000 deductible coverage. Contact us today to schedule your repair service.