Are you a car owner in Austin, Dallas, Denver, or Colorado Springs? As you probably know, hail in these areas can wreak havoc on a car’s value unless you get it repaired right. Those with comprehensive insurance coverage are in luck!
In case you don’t have comprehensive insurance, try our Hail Damage Car Repair Cost Calculator to get a quick estimate.
Let’s talk about some ways you can affordably repair your car during hail season. A dreaded hail storm can mean extensive damage to your car over time, creating bruises and dents. Luckily, there are advanced techniques to fix those hail dents.
Keeping your car looking great and in high value depends on the types of car hail damage repair available to you. This guide explains if repaired hail damage affects car value. Keep reading!
The Hail Repair Expert Approach – How StormWise Keeps Your Car’s Value
In most cases at StormWise, repaired hail damage maintains a car’s value.
We achieve this through advanced paintless dent repair and using original equipment manufacturers (OEM) parts, if necessary.
When no paint damage or severe damage occurred that requires a part replacement or paint repair, Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is sufficient and the best option for auto hail repair. Because it keeps the car’s factory paint warranty, and it doesn’t affect the car’s value.
Sometimes, when a car is severely damaged and requires part replacement plus PDR, we do our best to maintain your car’s value using Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) car parts.
The last scenario calls for paint repair, which usually includes sanding, grinding, and painting. Every car is different in that situation. At StormWise, we still try to fix as many dents with PDR as we can, and we will speak with you about the impact of the conventional repair method on the damaged paint areas.
The bottom line is: Unless fixing hail damage costs way more than the car’s current value, it is worthwhile to get it done! Not only do we make sure your car hail damage is fixed in the right way, we also do our best to get your insurance to pay for everything needed. We even help with your current deductible.
But if you’re in an area that we don’t service, you may need more info to determine what repair options are available and your best options, so keep reading.
What is Paintless Dent Repair?
If your paint surface isn’t broken, we’ll use PDR to fix the dent while preserving the factory paint. This is your best option to maintain your car’s value.
PDR is only possible for the metal panels, such as steel or aluminum. But, if there are any sharp edges or broken metal on the surface, then an alternative method would need to be considered.
Basically, PDR will save you not only time and money for auto hail repair but the finishing touches on your car. So if your hail damage is didn’t affect paintwork, this is the best way to go.
How Does PDR Work?
Paintless dent repair involves professionals using a specialized dent removal tool. This tool is used to push the dent from under the panel to softly move it outwards. The professional will often need to remove certain trimmings and panels to access the underside and then replace or reattach them when finished.
You might be wondering what the advantages PDR has over other techniques. How is it different?
Because paint is usually not harmed during hail dings and dents, you can save yourself a new paint job or matching the paint on the car. The technique involves special glue, equipment, and materials to help lift out the dent.
As a result, PDR often saves you thousands of dollars and weeks of repair time compared to conventional repair techniques that involve a paint job.
Easy Hail Dent Repair – Services Are Also Important
When seeking a hail repair expert, it’s important to find out how good their services are besides their techniques. At StormWise, our expert team will give you the easiest hail dent repair you’ve ever had.
Do They Help With Your Insurance?
The insurance process shouldn’t be a hassle. At StormWise, we’ll help you with the repair claim, and we’ll be involved throughout the process (working with your adjustor and negotiating for the best repair for your car). So ask your repair shop what they do to help with your insurance.
Free Rental Car and Free Pickup & Drop-off
For many of us, it’s not an option to live without a car for even a few days. If you need a car while you’re waiting and your insurance doesn’t include a rental, we’ll give you a rental car for free.
Similarly, to keep things convenient for you, StormWise also offers a free pickup and drop-off service for people that are far from our repair locations. We do our best to keep a flexible schedule to suit your needs and lifestyle.
How Will Unrepaired Hail Damage Affect Your Car’s Value?
Besides affecting the appearance of your car, unrepaired hail damage can significantly lower your car’s value – we’re talking about thousands of dollars to $20k. This can happen whether or not you report it to your insurance company. Even just a few tiny dents can do it, so it’s best to get them repaired right away.
What About Trade-In Value?
Hail damage is different on every car, so naturally, it will vary the impact on trade-in value. Over the years, even minor hail damage with just a few dents here and there could result in a huge dent in your compensation upon trade-in (up to 1/2 the car’s value).
Don’t Stress Over Hail Damage
You may consider getting yourself some hail damage coverage using comprehensive insurance if you live in an area where severe weather is an issue. Consider repairing before selling, and increase your chances of getting a better deal on your trade-in when you have repaired hail damage.
At StormWise, we can make those dents disappear without affecting your car’s value. Save yourself some time and money by coming to us with your car. Our technician team members are trained in state-of-the-art techniques, and we take pride in our impeccable workmanship. Check out our FAQ page to find out more about car hail damage repair.
