If your car has suffered damage from a hailstorm, you may be worried about dent repair costs and if your insurance will cover it. Here’s what you need to know about the best repair method for hail damage, costs and insurance coverage policies.
Cost of Paintless Dent Repairs for Vehicle Hail Damage
If the hail stones did not damage your vehicle’s paint, it may be a suitable candidate for paintless dent repairs (PDR). A faster and much more affordable alternative to conventional, invasive repairs that fill in and paint over dents, PDR work involves patient metalworking to restore the frame to its original shape. It’s even preferred by insurance companies as the primary method to repair vehicle hail damage and dents without paint damage present.
The cost of paintless dent repairs (PDR) to fix hail damage will depend on a few factors. The number of dents caused by hail as well as the size, depth and location of each dent will determine how much time it will take for repairs. Costs will depend on the extent of the hail damage, whether or not your vehicle’s paint has been compromised and the repair shop you select. It’s recommended to seek out a reputable PDR shop for a free estimate to determine if you need PDR or conventional repairs.
Paintless Dent Repair Insurance Coverage
If you have comprehensive coverage before the damage happens, your hail dent repair costs are likely covered (after you pay your pre-determined deductible). Comprehensive coverage typically pays for damage or theft occurring outside of collisions, covering expenses like windshield repair, hail damage repair and damage from theft or vandalism. Comprehensive auto insurance plan premiums vary by state and may be higher in states like South Dakota or Colorado that are among the highest for hail damage claims. Yet without coverage, it can get expensive to pay out of pocket in entirety to fix dents from hailstorms.
Your insurance rates generally won’t go up if you file a hail damage claim and they may even pay for loaner vehicle costs while the car dent repair is being done. It’s important to file a claim as soon as hail damage occurs. If you fail to repair hail damages when they first occur, your insurance company may deny future claims if previous damage exists. If your car is considered totaled, meaning the cost to fix the hail damage exceeds the value of the car, comprehensive coverage will be denied for the dent removal cost.
Hail Damage Costs
The average cost of a hail dent removal insurance claim is roughly $3,000, according to insurance.com. The cost you’ll pay will depend on the extent of the damages, your chosen insurance policy and your deductible amount. If your vehicle’s paint has been damaged, it will cost you more for conventional repairs or replacement panels.
Save yourself time and money on hail damage repair costs by opting for PDR first. At Dent Shop, we’ll work with your insurance company and get your car back in optimal condition quickly. We have over three decades of experience dealing with all types of cars and repairing hail damage. Contact us today for a free estimate!