Expert Guide on How to Repair Hail Damage on Car: Know What You Should Do

Hailstorms can leave your car looking like a golf ball, peppered with dents and sometimes causing more severe damage to its paint and glass. For those living in Colorado and Texas, hail storms are a yearly occurrence from April to September, making it important to know how to handle the aftermath.

 Understanding how to repair car hail damage can save you time and money, and help you decide when it’s best to tackle the repairs yourself or call in the pros.As the leading auto hail repair brand in the U.S. with over two decades of experience, we’ll share our knowledge about various repair options for different types of hail damage

We’ll help you compare professional services with effective DIY solutions and walk you through the steps we take at StormWise.

Jump Here:

How to Repair Hail Damage on Car: Types of Hail Damage

Understanding the type of damage your car has endured is the first step in deciding the best repair approach.

Hail damage can vary depending on the size of the hailstones and the intensity of the storm. Here are the most common types:

  • Dents: These are the most frequent form of hail damage. They can range from tiny dimples to larger, more pronounced indentations.
  • Paint Damage: Sometimes, hailstones will chip or crack your car’s paint, leaving it exposed to the elements and at risk of rust.
  • Glass Damage: Larger hailstones can crack or shatter windows and windshields, creating safety hazards and requiring immediate repair.

DIY Hail Repair Methods at Home 

When it comes to DIY hail damage repair, it’s important to recognize that not all methods shared online are effective—or even safe. Before diving in, you should assess the extent of the damage to ensure that a DIY approach is feasible. While techniques like Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) kits offer some potential, other popular methods, such as using hair dryers with compressed air or dry ice, are largely ineffective and may cause further damage. 

Here, we explore different repair approaches to help you make an informed decision.

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) – the Best Method to Fix Dents Caused by A Hailstorm

a car undergoing PDR

What is PDR?
PDR is a method of removing dents and dings without affecting the car’s paint. By accessing the back of the dent, specialized tools are used to push the metal back into its original form.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Assess the Dent: Ensure that the paint is not cracked and the dent is shallow enough for PDR.
  2. Gain Access: Remove interior panels if necessary to access the backside of the dent.
  3. Apply PDR Tools: Use specialized rods to gently push the dent out from behind, working gradually until the dent is no longer visible.
  4. Monitor and Adjust: Continuously check progress to ensure the panel returns to its original shape.

Best For: Small to large dents where the paint is undamaged. Most hail dents range in size from a dime to a half-dollar.

Pros:

  • Retains original paint.
  • Most PDR firms offer lifetime warranty on the repair.
  • Much cheaper than traditional dent repair methods. .

Cons:

  • Requires skill, experience, and patience.
  • PDR doesn’t work if there is crack or missing paint at the core of the dent
  • PDR doesn’t work on plastic panels, rocker panels, or bumpers whether they’re plastic or metal.

Tools Needed: PDR rods, blending hammers, and specialized lighting tools.

DIY Methods that work – Glue Pulling Kits and Suction Cup Puller

Glue Pulling Kits

A close-up of the glue tab and pulling tool

Glue pulling is an effective method for small to medium dents on metal surfaces, especially in hard-to-reach areas like roofs or door panels. Adhesive tabs are applied to the dent, and a pulling tool gradually lifts it out. 

Afterward, any remaining glue should be removed with an adhesive cleaner to avoid paint damage. This method preserves the paint if done carefully, though patience is required to prevent mistakes.

Suction Cup Puller

a suction cup to remove a dent

Suction Cup Puller is a practical method for removing large, shallow dents on metal surfaces, such as car doors, hoods, or trunks. The suction cup creates a vacuum seal over the dent, and steady pressure is applied to lift the metal back into place. 

This technique works best on flatter surfaces and requires proper cleaning to ensure a secure seal. Multiple attempts may be necessary for optimal results. This method preserves the paint, provided the metal isn’t over-pulled, and offers an easy, cost-effective solution for minor dents.

Avoid Misinformation in DIY Repairs

While some DIY online tips—like the hot water technique—claim to work on multiple materials, popping dents only works on metal surfaces. This is because metal has memory properties that allow it to return to its original shape when the right amount of force is applied. Plastic lacks these properties, meaning dents in plastic bumpers or panels cannot be “popped” out as easily.

Using the wrong method for the material can lead to frustration and even damage. Always verify if a technique suits the type of surface you’re working on. Trusted solutions like glue pulling kits and suction cup pullers provide safe and effective results for metal surfaces without compromising your vehicle’s paint or structure.

If you’re interested in learning more about real vs. fake DIY methods, check out this guide on compressed air and dry ice dent removal techniques.

Repairing Hail Damage Requires Specialty Technique

Sometimes, a hailstorm will come and go, and it isn’t too bad. It damaged your car a little, and you figure, “Hey, this isn’t the worst. Maybe if I do some research, get the proper materials, I can repair all the damage myself!”

That’s the thing, the damage may appear to be easy to fix, but if you look closely enough, you’ll discover how to repair hail damage on car requires a more difficult process than you think in reality.

It’s also easy to miss all the subtle dents and scratches which, as stated before, could develop over time into much larger issues that will blow up the hail damage auto repair cost in the long run.

This is why you need specialty, hail damage repair shops, like us – StormWise, where experienced technicians can do a comprehensive inspection of your car, not leaving anything out of the repair process.

We nip everything in the bud and get your car back to you looking brand new!

Why DIY Repair Isn’t a Viable Option for Hail Damage

Repairing hundreds of dents from hail damage is an overwhelming and frustrating task, especially for someone without experience. While DIY methods might work for small, isolated dings, they are impractical for large-scale hail damage

Many car owners, after trying quick-fix tutorials, soon realize the difficulties of fixing hail damage themselves often outweigh the perceived cost savings. Hidden dents are easily missed, which can lead to long-term issues like rust or structural damage if left unchecked. 

Additionally, DIY repairs may void warranties or even worsen the damage. A professional repair shop ensures that the entire repair process, addressing both visible and hidden dents, is handled effectively.

Conclusion

 Hail damage can leave your car looking worse than expected, with dents, paint chips, or even cracked glass. While some DIY methods like glue pulling kits or hot water techniques can help with minor dents, they are limited in scope and often require time, skill, and patience. 

For more extensive hail damage, relying on professional repair services ensures that both visible and hidden dents are properly addressed, preventing long-term issues like rust or structural damage. Although DIY repairs may seem cost-effective, they often fall short with widespread hail damage and can even void warranties. 

Professional repair shops, like StormWise, provide expert inspections and quality repairs, ensuring your vehicle is fully restored and protected. In the end, it’s best to leave major hail damage to the pros to save time, money, and stress in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hail dents be popped out?

Yes, some hail dents can be popped out using tools like glue pulling kits or PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) tools. These methods work well for small to medium dents but may not be effective for deeper or creased dents.

Will the sun pop out hail dents?

No, the sun won’t pop out dents. Although heat can cause metal to expand, it won’t restore the original shape of the panel. This is a myth that often leads to disappointment.

Does dry ice work for removing hail dents?

No, dry ice is not a reliable solution. While it may offer some success in rare cases, it is highly inconsistent and poses safety risks, such as paint cracking and frostbite.

Can hair dryers and compressed air remove dents?

Not reliably. While popular on YouTube, this method rarely produces effective results and can even cause paint damage if done improperly. It’s best to avoid this technique for dent repair.

Are suction cup dent pullers effective?

Partially. Suction cups can help reduce the visibility of shallow dents on smooth, flat surfaces like doors or hoods, but they often won’t restore the panel completely. They struggle with deeper or creased dents.

How effective are glue pulling kits for metal dents?

Glue pulling kits are highly effective for small to medium dents on metal surfaces. They are especially useful in areas that cannot be accessed from behind. However, care is needed to avoid damaging the paint.

Does hail damage affect car value?

Yes, hail damage lowers a car’s value. Even small dents can reduce resale or trade-in offers. Repairing hail damage early helps maintain your vehicle’s value and appearance.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email
the auto hail repair experts at StormWise

Want To Get Your Car Dent Free Again?

Does Auto Insurance Cover Windshield Repair for Minor Chips or Full Replacement?

Windshield damage is a frequent issue for drivers, caused by factors like debris, weather, or minor accidents. Such damage can impact driving safety, as a compromised windshield reduces visibility and weakens the vehicle’s structure. Generally, whether your car insurance policy covers windshield repair or replacement depends on your policy type. Liability insurance, for instance, does not cover windshield repair or replacement as it only addresses damages caused to others. Collision coverage may cover windshield replacement but typically only if the damage is due to a car accident. Comprehensive insurance, however, usually covers both windshield repair and replacement and often offers flexible deductibles. Additionally, glass-specific add-ons can provide more focused coverage, often with reduced or waived deductibles. Jump Here: Understanding Your Insurance Policy for Windshield Coverage Types of Windshield Damage Coverage for Minor Chips and Cracks Coverage for Full Windshield Replacement Factors That Affect Windshield Coverage Frequently Asked Questions Understanding Your Insurance Policy for Windshield Coverage Understanding which type of car insurance covers windshield repair or replacement can help you avoid unexpected costs. The table below provides a breakdown of common insurance types and what each generally covers for windshield damage. Insurance Type Covers Windshield Repair? Covers Full Windshield Replacement? Details Liability Insurance ❌No ❌No Liability insurance does not cover windshield repair or replacement; it only covers damages you cause to others. Collision Insurance ❌No, unless accident-related ✅Yes, if windshield damage is due to a collision Covers windshield replacement only when damage results directly from a collision with another vehicle or object. Comprehensive Insurance ✅Yes ✅Yes Comprehensive policies typically cover both repair and replacement for windshield damage, often with flexible deductibles. Glass Coverage Add-Ons ✅Yes ✅Yes Optional glass add-ons specifically cover windshield and other glass repairs or replacements, often with reduced or waived deductibles. Types of Windshield Damage Windshield damage can vary from minor chips to full-blown cracks, each requiring different repair or replacement approaches: Minor Chips: Small chips are often caused by flying rocks or debris and can usually be repaired without needing a full replacement. Chips are minor enough not to impact visibility or the windshield’s integrity significantly. Full Cracks: Larger cracks are more severe and often result from more substantial impacts. These cracks can grow over time, compromising the driver’s visibility and potentially leading to complete windshield failure. Understanding the type and severity of the damage can influence how and if the insurance covers repairs. Insurers may have specific guidelines, often covering minor repairs at little or no cost while requiring more documentation and higher deductibles for full replacements. Coverage for Minor Chips and Cracks For minor chips and small cracks, insurance coverage can vary. Here are some key considerations: When Insurance Covers Chip Repairs: Comprehensive insurance often covers chip repairs if they meet certain criteria, like being small enough to be repaired effectively and not obstructing visibility. Some insurance providers even waive the deductible for minor repairs to encourage early action and prevent further damage. Benefits of Early Repair: Repairing chips early can help avoid the need for a full replacement. Insurance companies may prefer to cover smaller repairs as they’re usually cheaper than replacements, benefiting both the insurer and the policyholder. Typical Deductibles for Chip Repair: Depending on the insurance provider, chip repairs may come with lower deductibles than full windshield replacements, reducing out-of-pocket costs for minor fixes. Coverage for Full Windshield Replacement In certain situations, a full windshield replacement is necessary, especially when: The windshield has large cracks that impair visibility. There is damage on the driver’s side that disrupts vision. Cracks or damage compromise the structural integrity of the glass. Comprehensive insurance is the most likely policy to cover a full replacement, but it typically includes a deductible. The exact cost will depend on the policy terms and whether the policyholder has glass-specific coverage. State-Specific “Zero-Deductible” Laws Unlike states such as Florida, South Carolina, and Kentucky, which mandate zero-deductible windshield replacements with comprehensive insurance, Colorado does not have such a law. In Colorado, you may still be able to get zero-deductible coverage if you purchase additional glass coverage through your insurance provider. Always check with your insurer for available options. Factors That Affect Windshield Coverage Multiple factors can impact the coverage you receive for windshield repairs or replacement: Deductible Amounts and Policy Details: Insurance providers set their own deductible levels, which can range from minimal to substantial amounts depending on the policy. Insurance Provider Policies: Each insurance company has different policies regarding windshield repairs, especially concerning whether they cover third-party shops or only certain approved repair services. Choice of Repair Shop: In some cases, choosing a repair shop outside the insurance company’s preferred network can impact coverage or reimbursement amounts. While third-party shops may offer flexibility, using insurance-preferred shops can sometimes make the claims process smoother and more cost-effective. Conclusion Windshield damage can be an unexpected and sometimes costly problem. Knowing whether your auto insurance covers repairs or replacements and understanding the nuances of your policy can make a significant difference when handling these issues. Comprehensive insurance is typically the best choice for windshield protection, especially in states with zero-deductible laws for replacements. As always, reviewing your own policy details and consulting with your insurance agent will give you a clear picture of your coverage options for any potential windshield mishaps. Frequently Asked Questions Are cracked windshields covered under warranty? Most manufacturer warranties cover cracked windshields only if caused by a manufacturing defect, like material or installation issues. Damage from external factors (e.g., road debris) typically isn’t covered. Some brands offer optional windshield protection plans: for instance, BMW’s plan covers minor chips and cracks from road debris but excludes cracks over six inches. Hyundai, Subaru, and Ford offer similar plans with specific coverage limits. If your car has advanced driver-assistance features integrated into the windshield, such as lane-keeping cameras or autopilot systems, it’s important to ask about coverage for recalibration, as this can vary by manufacturer and plan. To confirm specific coverage, it’s best to consult your warranty terms or speak with your dealership.

When Not to File an Auto Insurance Claim [How Small Claims Can Impact Your Rates]

Filing an auto insurance claim can seem like a straightforward step after an accident, but knowing when not to file can be just as crucial. Many assume that only major claims affect premiums, but even minor claims can lead to increased rates. In fact, it’s often the reporting of an incident, rather than the insurance claim itself, that triggers higher premiums. Insurers frequently adjust rates simply because an accident was reported, regardless of the severity. This article explores the pros and cons of filing a claim, clears up some common misconceptions, and offers practical advice for various situations to help you make a smart decision. Jump Here: How Small Claims Can Impact Your Insurance Rates Don’t Make This Mistake When Not to File an Auto Insurance Claim #1 Repairs Cost Less than or Near Your Deductible #2 Minor Cosmetic Damage #3 Risk of Losing Your No-Claims Bonus The Hidden Costs of Filing Small Claims When You Should Definitely File a Claim How Small Claims Can Impact Your Insurance Rates  It may come as a surprise that even small claims can raise your rates, as insurers view any accident report as an added risk. Understanding this potential impact can help you make a well-informed choice about whether a car insurance claim is worthwhile. How Insurers Calculate Risk Insurance companies set premiums based on several risk factors, including driving record, frequency of claims, and accident reports. Even minor accidents can signal a higher risk level to insurers, leading to potential rate increases to cover anticipated future claims. Why Small Claims Matter Contrary to popular belief, small claims—or even reports of minor car accidents—can influence premiums. Insurers tend to factor any reported incident into premium calculations, even if it’s minor or not your fault. Knowing that small claims can increase your premiums helps in making more strategic decisions about when it’s best to avoid filing a claim. Don’t Make This Mistake There’s an important distinction between merely reporting an accident and filing an actual claim. Sometimes, just notifying your insurer of an incident (due to police involvement or third-party reports) can lead to a premium hike. If the insurer is already aware of the accident, not filing a claim might not prevent a rate increase. In these cases, filing a claim could actually be beneficial, as the rate impact is already in place, and the claim can help cover repair or medical costs. When Not to File an Auto Insurance Claim For some situations, covering repair costs out-of-pocket directly at a repair shop rather than filing a claim can be advantageous, especially if the accident hasn’t been reported or the insurer is not yet aware. Here are scenarios where forgoing a claim could save you more in the long run. #1 Repairs Cost Less than or Near Your Deductible If your repair costs are close to or just slightly over your deductible, filing a claim may not be worth the potential premium increase. For instance, if your repair estimate is $1,200 and your deductible is $1,000, you’d only receive $200 in coverage—but might face a premium hike that costs much more over time. In these cases, paying out-of-pocket could be a wiser choice, provided the accident hasn’t been reported. #2 Minor Cosmetic Damage Filing claims for minor cosmetic damage, like small dents or scratches, can raise premiums unnecessarily. Such claims can also show up on vehicle history reports (e.g., Carfax), potentially lowering the car’s resale value more than the cost of the damage itself. In most cases, it’s more cost-effective to pay for minor cosmetic repairs yourself to avoid long-term financial impact. #3 Risk of Losing Your No-Claims Bonus Many insurers offer no-claims bonuses or discounts to policyholders with claim-free records, which can save $200-$500 annually. Losing this bonus due to a small claim can have a greater long-term cost than covering a minor repair yourself. This bonus also helps maintain low rates when switching insurers. By avoiding small claims, you can keep this discount intact, especially if the insurer isn’t aware of the incident. The Hidden Costs of Filing Small Claims Deductibles on Multiple Claims: Each accident requires its own deductible, which can add up quickly. For frequent minor incidents, paying out-of-pocket for repairs could save money and help avoid additional rate increases. Risk of Policy Cancellation or Non-Renewal: Filing frequent small claims can make you appear high-risk to insurers, potentially leading to policy cancellation or non-renewal. Even minor claims, if frequent, indicate a higher risk level, which may affect your ability to retain coverage. The Hassle Factor: Small claims can involve considerable paperwork, inspections, and follow-up, which can be time-consuming. For minor damage, consider if the effort involved is worth the potential payout and rate increase. When You Should Definitely File a Claim While there are cases where avoiding a claim is beneficial, some situations require filing to ensure adequate financial and legal protection. Major Accidents or Costly Repairs: When repair costs far exceed your deductible, filing a claim is usually the best route. Significant damage is what insurance is meant to cover, so in these cases, a claim is likely worthwhile. Injuries or Medical Expenses: If anyone involved is injured, filing a claim is essential. Medical expenses can add up quickly, and insurance coverage can help manage these costs. The Other Driver is at Fault: If another driver is responsible, filing a claim helps ensure their insurance covers the damages. Even if your insurance is impacted, it’s important to hold the at-fault party accountable. Liability Concerns: If there’s a chance of a lawsuit or liability, it’s crucial to file a claim for legal protection. Your insurance policy provides liability coverage, and filing safeguards you financially against potential claims from others. Conclusion When deciding whether to file an auto insurance claim, consider the long-term financial impact rather than focusing solely on immediate benefits. Not all accidents require claims, especially if they’re minor and can be managed without involving insurance. Evaluate your specific situation carefully, weigh the costs of repairs against

Before and after repair

Car Hail Damage Repair Cost [With Real Examples]

Hail damage repair for cars can get really expensive. While most articles mention costs ranging from $750 to $3,000, the reality is often much higher because we’re usually dealing with hundreds of dents. At StormWise, we’re the only brand that discloses the real costs for car hail repair, and based on the thousands of cars we’ve fixed in the past three years, the average cost is about $6,750.  The range can be anywhere from $4,000 to as high as $15,000. But here’s what most people don’t know: on average, we charge $0 for the repair.  In this article, we’ll explain the factors that affect the cost and, more importantly, how you can get your car fixed with paying $0 out of pocket. Key Factors Affecting Hail Damage Repair Costs The cost of hail damage repair depends on a few factors: Jump Here: The size and number of dents on the vehicle The material of the vehicle’s panels The severity of the damage – Is there any paint damage? Repair method: Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) or traditional methods Your insurance coverage Repair specialists’ offers Real Examples of Hail Damage Repair Costs Dent Size and Count The size and number of dents affect the cost of hail damage repair. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) uses a pricing matrix based on dent size (like dime, nickel, quarter, or half-dollar) and dent quantity (mild: 6-15 dents, moderate: 16-30 dents). For example, 10 dime-sized dents on a hood might cost around $150. But if there were 20 quarter-sized dents, the cost would increase to about $225 due to the larger size and higher number of dents. For a more detailed breakdown of how PDR costs are calculated, here’s an in-depth look into the PDR pricing matrix. Panel Material Hail repair costs also depend on the complexity of the panel material. Aluminum, for example, is harder to repair than steel because it lacks “metal memory,” meaning it doesn’t easily return to its original shape after a dent. As a result, aluminum panels can cost up to 25% more to fix, requiring specialized tools and techniques. This adds to the repair cost and demands greater skill from the technician. Paint Damage and Severity Beyond the number, size, and material, hail repair costs also depend on the severity of the damage and the methods needed. Severe damage, like cracked or chipped paint, can significantly raise costs. For example, deep dents that break through the paint may require both dent removal and repainting, increasing the expense. Minor touch-ups might cost around $50, while a full car respray for severe damage can reach up to $5,000. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) vs. Traditional Repair Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is usually the most budget-friendly choice for fixing minor dents that haven’t cracked the paint. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200 per dent, depending on the size and how many there are. If there’s paint damage or if the dents are too large for PDR, traditional repair methods will be necessary. These can cost between $500 and $1,500 per panel, with prices going up based on how severe the damage is. Insurance Coverage Most comprehensive car insurance policies cover hail damage because it’s considered an “act of nature.” This means you usually won’t see your premiums go up if you file a claim. Just keep in mind that you need a comprehensive policy—liability-only or collision insurance won’t cut it. With comprehensive insurance, repairs for hail damage won’t affect your rates, but it’s best to act quickly after a storm to prevent any further issues. StormWise can help by working directly with insurance companies to make sure all your repair costs are covered, including any deductibles you might have. Severe hailstorms, like those that hit Colorado, can really cause a lot of damage, with repair bills ranging from $3,000 to over $15,000. Even smaller hailstones can lead to damage that meets or exceeds your deductible, which often means insurance will cover the full repair cost if the damage is significant. Don’t wait too long to get those repairs done. Driving around with unrepaired hail damage can hurt your car’s value and could even lead to lower insurance payouts if you get into an accident later. Some insurance companies might subtract the value of any previous unrepaired damage when calculating payouts for a total loss. Choosing the Right Repair Service for Hail Damage After a hailstorm, acting quickly to repair any damage is essential to maintain your car’s value. Reputable repair services, like StormWise, specialize in Paintless Dent Repair (PDR), a technique that restores dents without affecting your vehicle’s original paint or finish, keeping it in top condition. Look for repair shops with fast turnaround times—StormWise, for example, often completes repairs within two weeks, even during peak seasons. Partnering with a service that works directly with insurance companies can also simplify the claims process and reduce delays. Some providers, including StormWise, offer deductible assistance, easing your out-of-pocket costs. Choosing the right repair service not only ensures fast, quality repairs but also helps maintain your car’s value and avoids complications with future insurance claims. Real Examples of Hail Damage Repair Costs Minor Damage Minor hail damage typically involves hundreds of small dents across the vehicle, as even smaller hailstones can cause widespread impact. Repair costs for this type of damage usually start at $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the vehicle’s panel materials. PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) is commonly used for these repairs, ensuring that the vehicle’s original paint remains intact. Moderate Damage Moderate hail damage involves a higher number of dents spread across several panels, leading to more extensive repair needs. Costs for this level of damage typically range from $5,000 to $8,000, depending on the vehicle and the extent of the impact.  Repair specialists often recommend addressing moderate damage quickly to avoid further complications and preserve the car’s value. Severe Damage Severe hail damage involves extensive denting across multiple panels, often requiring significant repairs or part

StormWise Insurance Help

Insurance Navigation

We work with all reputable insurance companies and will help take care of your claim, inspection, and deductible.

StormWise Satisfaction Guarantee

100% satisfaction guaranteed

Rest assured with a free estimate, a free rental car, and a lifetime warranty. We can arrange free car pickup or delivery, too!

StormWise Expert Advice

Expert Advice

Ask any questions you have about automotive hail repair and our process. You can also get an estimate via online chat.

Contact StormWise To Get Your Car Dent-Free

Tell Us About Your Car
Where Should We Send The Quote?