You know the drill—when the weather report predicts a hailstorm, you probably head inside to avoid getting pelted. But what happens to your poor car sitting unprotected in the driveway? Those hailstones, sometimes as big as baseballs, can leave hundreds of tiny dents all over its surface and might even shatter the windshield. It's a real bummer!
While hail damage typically doesn't affect how well your car runs, it sure does impact its looks—and that's a big deal if you're planning to sell it down the line. A bunch of dings and dents scattered across the hood and roof can significantly lower your vehicle's resale value. So, if you want to keep your car looking sharp, here are some steps you can take to prevent or fix this kind of damage.
Preventing and Fixing Hail Damage
If you don’t already have a garage, preventing hail damage requires some creativity. You could invest in a portable garage or carport to shield your vehicle when storms roll in. Alternatively, a sturdy car cover or blanket can help protect your car from the elements. If neither option works for you, keep an eye on weather forecasts and find a nearby public parking lot or shelter where you can move your car during a storm.
But let’s say the hail has already landed and your car now looks like it got into a minor skirmish. What do you do next? Unfortunately, hail damage usually isn’t covered under standard auto insurance policies unless you have comprehensive coverage. Even then, you might face a hefty deductible for repairs. Before reaching out to your insurer, though, there are a few things you should do first:
- Get an appraisal: Whether you go through your insurance company or hire an independent inspector, having your car professionally assessed is crucial. Make sure the vehicle is clean and free of debris before the inspection so they can accurately gauge the extent of the damage.
- Explore paintless dent removal (PDR): This technique involves using specialized tools to gently massage dents out without damaging the paint. It’s less invasive than traditional bodywork and often cheaper, too. Just remember that PDR isn’t effective on deeper dents or those that have cracked the paint.
- For larger dents: Sometimes, PDR alone won’t cut it. In these cases, conventional auto body repairs might be necessary. This could involve sanding, repainting, and replacing damaged panels. If any windows were broken, you’ll also need to address that issue separately.
- Invest in preventive measures: Once your car is fixed up, consider taking steps to prevent future incidents. A high-quality car cover or a permanent structure like a garage will save you stress—and money—in the long run.
So, what should you do right now if your car just got hit by hail? The best course of action is to schedule an appointment with DaSilva’s Auto Body for a thorough evaluation. They’ll walk you through the process and provide recommendations based on the severity of the damage. For more information, feel free to reach out to their Naugatuck location directly.
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