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Originally Posted On: https://www.expresshailrepair.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-fix-auto-hail-damage-on-a-vehicle
No one wants to wake up the next morning to their vehicle dinged up due to a hail storm. Some people can protect their vehicles by using a carport or a garage. Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky when a hail storm hits.
Hailstones can cause damage ranging from anywhere between $8 billion and $14 billion across the country every year. Most of these impacts happen from March through June in both Texas and Colorado alone.
Fortunately, most of this damage tends to be minor. But how much does it cost to fix auto hail damage if you want your vehicle fully restored?
Here are some of the benefits of auto hail repair and the costs broken down.
Benefits of a Hail Damage Repair Service
You may have dents littering the top and sides of your exterior. In some cases, hailstones can cause bigger damage such as cracks or broken windshields.
Even if your vehicle ‘doesn’t look that bad’, you still might not feel great driving it around. Plus, dents from hail will lead to rust – so even if you’re not fully concerned with cosmetic effects, think about your safety and your resale value.
That said, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Hire a hail damage repair company to assess the damage to your vehicle and what can be done to repair it.
If you go to a paintless dent repair (PDR) company, you can also get much quicker service than taking it to a normal repair shop. They’re more affordable than the alternative, which will look better to your insurance company. PDR is the preferred method for auto hail repair, in fact, by insurance companies and manufacturers alike.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Auto Hail Damage?
Vehicle repair costs will vary depending on the extent of the hail damage, such as the dent size, depth, location, and number. It’ll also depend on where you take it.
Even barely visible auto hail damage can cost between $3000-$6000 and still negatively impact your vehicle’s structural integrity. While more extensive auto hail damage can cost between $6000-$10000.
A PDR service will generally cost less than taking your ride to a body shop since it deals with mostly surface-level dents. It’s the fastest, most affordable, and least intrusive option that can remove dings and minor dents.
Some larger and more reputable specialty auto hail repair companies staff their shops to also handle bodywork, glasswork, and replacement parts (if necessary).
Body Shop vs PDR Specialists
How much does it cost to fix hail damage at a body shop vs a PDR specialist? First of all, you should know how a body shop differs from a normal auto repair shop.
A body shop repairs damage to the exterior and non-moving parts of your vehicle. An auto repair shop handles the interior components that keep it moving. Their costs are comparable depending on the work needed.
Meanwhile, your PDR specialist provides specifically dent removal services. As such, they’re usually going to be the more affordable option than a body shop that offers similar services.
Determining Cost with a PDR Matrix
A PDR matrix is a chart used by technicians to determine the cost needed for hail damage. These charts are agreed upon by insurance companies as a standard starting point for repair costs.
To use one, you must determine what part of the vehicle is damaged, the number of dents, and the size of those dents.
For example, a few dime-sized dents on the roof will cost you about $75. If there were over 50 of those same-sized dents, then you may need to pay $425 for the repair job. Now if the paint has been damaged, you might need a replacement part.
The different categories are split up based on the number of dents. There’s very light, light, moderate, medium, heavy, severe, and extreme. They’re then split up based on the average size of those dents.
Talk with your specialist to understand the specific reasons behind your bill.
Insurance Coverage
Full coverage insurance is a term that applies to comprehensive and collision as well as other state-mandated policies. Lenders use the term to refer to carrying both liability and physical insurances, but there are some exceptions.
If you have full coverage insurance, then it’ll help cover the cost of your vehicle repair job. Outside of collisions, you can expect them to provide protection against perils such as fire, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.
Your provider will recommend repair shops you can use after a hail storm. You don’t need to visit those shops, however, if you want them to cover your repair costs. It is your legal choice to go to the auto hail repair shop that you chose.
How to Handle a Hail Storm
The best way to deal with dents in your vehicle is by protecting it from hail.
Covered parking will save you a lot of money in the long run, especially during hail season. This can take the form of a canopy, a carport, or a garage. Avoid parking under a tree, as a storm can knock loose branches.
If you lack covered parking, try to find a temporary shelter. A parking garage is a great option for riding out a sudden hail storm.
For those at home, you can also use a blanket or a hail car cover. Duct tape them down to prevent the wind from blowing them away.
A Hail Damage Repair Company You Can Trust
Nobody wants to drive around in a vehicle that’s been dinged up. That said, it’s important to find an auto hail repair company that’s affordable and can provide reliable service.
But how much does it cost to fix auto hail damage when you need quick repairs?
At Express Auto Hail Repair, you can get a free 3-min Express Estimate online right now. Or book a 1-Hour Custom Estimate at our shop.
Plus, if you’re 1 of our first 200 customers after a storm, and you have full coverage insurance, your deductible will be fully paid by us.
Contact Express Auto Hail Repair to learn more about what to expect.
