Hail damage can feel like a sudden setback, leaving vehicle owners anxious about the damage. This is made worse by misconceptions about hail damage, leaving many confused about what to do.
If this sounds familiar, keep reading this blog. We’ll discuss some common myths about hail damage repair and offer insights into its reality so you can make informed decisions.
Misconception #1: Hail Damage Repair Isn’t Worth Repairing If the Damage Is Minor
One of the most popular myths about hail damage is that if the dents are small, you can skip the repairs. This has left many believing that minor hail damage is nothing more than surface imperfections and they have no impact on the performance or value of a car.
Unfortunately, that’s not true. Even minute, unnoticeable dents can affect the resale value of your vehicle. And worse, in some cases, these minor dents can lead to deeper damage if left untreated for too long. For instance, water can pool on the uneven surface, leading to rust, which can weaken the structure of the vehicle’s panels and lead to long-term problems. So, no matter how negligible the damage may seem, you’ve got to repair it.
Misconception #2: Paintless Dent Repair Won’t Restore My Car’s Original Appearance
There are multiple ways to address hail damage, including Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) and traditional bodywork. However, some people think that PDR is a temporary fix. They assume traditional bodywork is the only way to restore a vehicle after hail damage.
In reality, PDR is a popular technique that has revolutionized the repair industry. It’s a cost-effective solution that also preserves the car’s factory finish, which is especially valuable for those planning to sell their vehicle. With the help of specialized tools, technicians gently massage small dents out from behind the panels without disturbing the original paint. This circumvents the need to repaint repaired panels and issues such as mismatched colors.
Misconception #3: Hail Repair Takes a Long Time
The amount of time it takes to repair your car depends on the extent of the damage. Small to moderate dents can typically be repaired by PDR fairly quickly. On the other hand, severe damage that requires traditional bodywork may need more time to restore a car to its previous condition.
It’s also worth noting that after a major hailstorm, repair shops often experience a surge in demand. This can lead to longer wait times or a shortage of parts. For this reason, some auto shops that specialize in hail damage repair in Killeen, TX, also offer convenient on-site repair services. If the car has received minor dents, technicians meet customers at any location and attend to the damages right away.
Misconception #4: Insurance Won’t Cover Hail Damage
Another widespread misconception is that since the car was damaged by hail, the insurance company won’t cover the cost of repairs. In reality, it’s not about the insurance company – it’s about the policy you take out.
All insurance policies do not cover hail damage. Comprehensive insurance policies often cover damage caused by “acts of nature,” including hail damage. So, the company should compensate for repairs without increasing the premium.
However, it’s essential to understand the terms of your policy. Some policies have a deductible for weather-related damage, which means out-of-pocket expenses might apply. Additionally, there may be a limited window for filing a hail damage claim after the storm. Make sure to review your policy and report the damage promptly to avoid any surprises.
Misconception #5: Only Severe Hail Damage Needs Immediate Attention
There’s a common belief that only large dents or deep damage from hail warrant an immediate trip to the repair shop, while smaller or lighter dents can wait. The truth is that light hail damage, if left unaddressed, can worsen over time. Dents and cracks may spread or deepen with temperature changes, vibration from driving, or exposure to other environmental factors.
Prompt repairs, even for light hail damage, help prevent the formation of rust and keep repair costs lower. Waiting too long can result in cumulative damage, requiring more extensive repairs that could have been avoided with a quick, initial fix.
Misconception # 6: DIY Hail Repair Kits Are Just as Effective as Professional Repair
There’s a DIY kit for everything these days, so it’s not surprising that countless brands are selling DIY kits for hail damage, too. Now I’ll be honest, these companies do a damn good job at marketing, tempting car owners to take matters into their own hands.
While these kits may help fix minor dents, there are several risks involved. They lack the precision needed to restore the factory-like condition achieved through professional PDR. In fact, using DIY kits can sometimes lead to additional damage if not done correctly, resulting in even higher repair costs later on. They also often fall short when dealing with complex, multi-point impacts.
So, seek help from a professional hail damage repair technician who has the training and tools to assess and fix the damage.
Misconception #7: All Repair Shops Handle Hail Damage the Same Way
Not all repair shops specialize in hail damage, and not all technicians are trained in PDR. Some general auto body shops may not have the tools or training needed to perform PDR. Since hail damage repair requires specialized knowledge and equipment, you need a repair shop with proper expertise and equipment to address the damage.
But that’s not all. Cars made of different materials need separate tools, procedures, and workshops. A certified shop with experienced technicians who know how to repair aluminum and steel panels can provide you with the best service and help retain your vehicle’s value and aesthetic. When selecting a repair facility, ask about their experience with hail damage and their track record of success with PDR.
Misconception #8: Hail Damage Will Affect My Insurance Premiums
Many vehicle owners worry that filing a hail damage claim will lead to higher insurance premiums. However, comprehensive insurance covers unexpected natural events and is treated differently than “collision” claims that might indicate risky driving behavior. Comprehensive claims generally don’t impact premiums because they are considered out of the driver’s control.
While every insurance provider has a different policy, in most cases, hail damage repairs do not impact the premium rate. However, it’s better to check with your insurance company to understand how they handle comprehensive claims.
Final Thoughts
There’s a lot of information about hail damage repair options, techniques, and costs. However, it’s not always easy to differentiate the facts from the myths. So, the best approach is to get your information from a reliable source, preferably a skilled technician who has prior experience in hail damage repair. They can help preserve your car’s value, appearance, and functionality.
Above all, address any damage promptly. That way, you not only protect your vehicle but also ensure that it remains in top condition for years to come.
