How Much Does It Cost to Fix Hail Damage on My Vehicle?

Hailstorms cause an average of $15 billion in property damage annually, affecting homes, crops, vehicles, and personal belongings. If your vehicle has sustained body damage from a hailstorm, you might be wondering about the cost of repairs.

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The answer depends on various factors, including the severity of the damage and the repair method. Understanding these factors can help you estimate your repair costs. This guide outlines the key variables to consider. Read on to learn what to expect and how to get your car back in shape.

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Car Insurance Coverage

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The first factor to consider when calculating hail damage repair costs is your level of insurance coverage. Comprehensive insurance policies typically cover hail damage, along with incidents like theft and vandalism.

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This differs from liability and collision coverage. Liability insurance, mandatory for all drivers, covers damage to others’ property. Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle from accidents where you’re at fault. Neither of these policies typically covers hail damage.

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To confirm your coverage, contact your insurance company immediately after the hailstorm and file a claim.

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Extent of the Damage

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The severity of the hail damage significantly impacts repair costs. You can expect to pay $30 to $75 per dent, depending on the damage’s depth and location.

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Hailstones vary in size, from a green pea to a grapefruit, and can travel at speeds of 9 to 25 mph. This variability affects whether the damage is minor or severe.

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While most hail damage is superficial, severe storms can impact your car’s motor or driving components. Prompt assessment is critical to avoid exacerbating issues, especially if paint damage allows rust and corrosion to set in, which can significantly reduce your vehicle’s value.

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Type of Repairs

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The type of repair required depends on the damage. There are two main professional repair methods: traditional dent repair and paintless dent repair (PDR). DIY dent repair may seem appealing, but it often worsens the problem, leading to higher costs and potentially voiding insurance coverage. Professional repairs are always the safer choice.

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Traditional Dent Repair

Traditional dent repair involves filling dents with plastic resin, allowing it to set, sanding the area, and then priming and repainting it. This method is labor-intensive, increasing costs due to time and materials.

Traditional repair is typically used for sharp, creased, or deep dents and when paint damage has already occurred. It’s also the best option when the back of the damaged panel is inaccessible.

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Paintless Dent Repair

Paintless dent repair (PDR) is a modern technique that restores the original shape of the damaged panel without fillers or repainting. Technicians remove the damaged panel and use specialized tools to massage the metal back into place.

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PDR is faster and more affordable than traditional methods, resulting in a more durable finish. Unlike fillers, which can degrade over time, PDR restores the original metal surface, preserving the vehicle’s integrity and value.

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Additionally, PDR is environmentally friendly. By avoiding paints and petroleum-based fillers, it reduces waste and minimizes environmental impact.

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PDR is the preferred method for most modern hail damage repairs, saving both time and money while maintaining your vehicle’s resale value.

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Learn More About Hail Damage Repair Costs

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Understanding the factors influencing hail damage repair costs helps you prepare for the process. If you have comprehensive insurance, file a claim promptly to ensure your vehicle is restored to its original condition.

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48-Hour Auto Hail Repair offers efficient and high-quality dent repair with a 48-hour turnaround. We work with all insurance companies and cover up to $1,000 of your deductible. Contact us today to schedule a service.