Does Hail Really Damage Cars: Everything you need to know

Hailstorms are a common phenomenon in many states, leaving a trail of damage and destruction in their wake. Among the most vulnerable are vehicles.

But does hail really damage cars?

That’s exactly what we will be exploring today. We will also discuss the types of damage that occur and how drivers can protect their vehicles. We have got a lot of ground to cover, so let’s dive right in.

Can Your Car Get Damaged By Hail?

The short answer is yes. Hail can damage your car, from dents to shattered glass to scratched paint. It can lead to costly repairs and even long-term damage. However, the extent of the damage can vary depending on many factors, including the size of the hailstones, the level of the storm, and the vehicle's material.

Types of Hail Damage to Cars

Hail can cause a range of damage, from minor aesthetic issues to major structural concerns. Below are some common types of hail damage that can affect your vehicle:

1. Surface Dents and Dings

Hailstones are made of frozen raindrops. So, even small, innocent-looking ones can leave visible dents and dings on a vehicle's surface. Large flat areas, such as the hood, roof, and trunk, are more vulnerable to damage. Although surface dents may seem purely cosmetic, they can reduce the vehicle’s resale value and impact its structural integrity, requiring professional repair to restore the pre-hail appearance.

2. Glass Damage

Larger hailstones pose a significant threat to a car's windows, especially the windshield. In severe cases, hail can cause cracks or even completely shatter the glass, rendering the car unsafe to drive. Broken glass can lead to further issues, such as water leaks inside the vehicle.

3. Paint Chips and Scratches

Hailstones can easily chip or scratch a car's paint, especially if the hailstones are sharp or jagged. Over time, exposed metal areas can start to rust, particularly in regions with high humidity. Rust weakens the car's structure and can lead to more extensive problems if left untreated.

4. Broken Side Mirrors and Lights

The force of larger hailstones can crack or completely break off side mirrors or damage the vehicle’s lights, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals. This can compromise the driver’s visibility and the vehicle's safety, making it difficult to see or signal to other drivers, especially in low-light conditions. Since driving with damaged lighting components may lead to legal issues or fines, vehicle owners address broken lights or mirrors promptly.

5. Trim and Molding Damage

Hailstones can also damage the trim molding on vehicles, which includes the plastic or metal strips that run along the edges of the doors, windows, and other body panels. The impact of hail can cause this molding to crack, warp, or come loose, which affects the vehicle’s appearance and may lead to further deterioration if water gets trapped underneath the trim.

6. Body Panel Damage

In severe hailstorms, body panels such as doors, fenders, and quarter panels can suffer significant damage. Large hailstones can cause deep dents or even punctures in these panels, leading to costly repairs. In some cases, the damage may be so extensive that entire body panels need to be replaced, which can dramatically increase repair costs.

Factors That Determine the Severity of Damage

While hail can cause significant damage to vehicles, several factors determine the severity of that damage. These include:

1. Hailstone Size

The size of the hailstones is the most crucial factor when determining the extent of damage hail can cause. Generally speaking, the larger the hail, the greater the damage. For example, hailstones that are smaller than an inch in diameter might only cause minor dents. On the other hand, hailstones larger than an inch can cause more serious damage, such as cracked windshields and deep dents.

2. Material of the Vehicle

The material from which a car is made can influence how well it withstands hail. For instance, vehicles with aluminum bodies are more prone to denting than those made from steel. Additionally, certain types of paint may be more resistant to chipping, while others may not fare as well under hail impact.

3. Duration and Intensity of the Storm

The longer and more intense the hailstorm, the greater the likelihood of damage. Vehicles exposed to prolonged hail will inevitably sustain more damage compared to those that encounter a short, mild storm.

4. Vehicle Protection

Cars that are parked in garages or under covered areas during a hail storm are far less likely to experience damage. Conversely, vehicles left in open spaces, such as parking lots or driveways, are fully exposed to the elements, increasing the risk of serious damage.

The Financial Impact of Hail Damage

Repairing hail damage can be expensive, so it’s not surprising that Americans spend billions of dollars annually in vehicle repairs. For this reason, drivers who live in areas prone to frequent hailstorms are advised to invest in comprehensive car insurance. This type of insurance typically covers hail damage.

The cost of repairing a hail damaged-car depends on the level of the damage. Minor dents can often be fixed using practices such as PDR (Paintless Dent Repair), a cost-effective method that doesn’t require repainting the vehicle. However, extensive damage, such as shattered windshields, broken side mirrors, or warped panels, can require costly replacements.

For those living in hail-prone areas, finding a professional auto hail repair specialist is essential. For instance,if you live in Killeen or a nearby area, looking for experts inhail damage repair in Killeen, TX, is critical due to the region's frequent storms. This will give you access to a skilled technician, ensuring that any dents, dings, or cracks caused by hail are expertly addressed. A professional hail repair specialist can measure the extent of the damage and suggest the best repair options.

How to Protect Your Car from Hail Damage

The saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," is specifically true when it comes to protecting your beloved vehicle from hailstorms. And if you are living in a state that receives a lot of hail, then you need to be extremely careful at all times.

Taking the following steps can protect your car and save on costly repairs:

• Park in a covered area: Keep your car in a protected area, such as a garage or under a carport during hail season.
• Use a car cover: If a garage or covered parking is not available, consider investing in a car cover designed especially to protect against hail damage. These covers provide a cushioning layer that can absorb some of the impact from hailstones.
• Monitor weather reports: In regions prone to hailstorms, it’s essential to stay informed about upcoming weather conditions. If a hailstorm is forecasted, try to move your vehicle to a sheltered location in advance.
• Comprehensive car insurance: Ensure that your vehicle is covered by comprehensive insurance that includes protection against hail damage. This will help cover the cost of repairs if your car is damaged during a hailstorm.

Over to You

Hail can damage your cars. However, taking preventative measures to protect your vehicle can help circumvent or minimize the damage. In the unfortunate event that your car does get damaged by hail, you should seek out prompt repairs. This can prevent further deterioration and help maintain the vehicle’s value and performance. And finally, always seek out an experienced, professional auto hail repair technician. They can ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-damage condition using the right techniques and materials.