Short answer: photograph the damage, file a comprehensive claim with your insurance company, and take your car to a paintless dent repair (PDR) shop you choose. In Arizona you have the right to pick your own repair shop. Hail dents should be repaired as soon as possible so they don't add up from storm to storm.
Once the storm has passed, photograph the hood, roof, trunk and every panel in good light. Hail dents are easiest to see at an angle. Also photograph any cracked glass, mirrors, lights or trim. Write down the date and time of the storm.
If a window or sunroof is broken, cover it to keep monsoon rain out of the interior. Park in a garage or covered spot if another storm is coming.
Hail damage falls under the comprehensive part of an auto policy. The fastest way to file is usually your insurance company's mobile app. You will get a claim number. Keep it, because your repair shop will need it.
Your insurance company may recommend a shop, but you do not have to use it. A hail specialist who does paintless dent repair can usually keep your factory paint, which protects resale and trade-in value. Ask the shop whether they will meet your adjuster to re-inspect the car under special lights so every dent gets counted.
Approval usually takes 2 to 5 business days, and longer after a big storm when adjusters are busy. Once the estimate is approved, most hail repairs take about a week. Ask about a rental car while yours is in the shop.
Unrepaired hail damage lowers your car's value. If you later have a minor accident, old unclaimed hail damage can push the repair cost high enough that the insurer totals the car. Getting it fixed now avoids both problems.
Aaron's Hail Repair, 2024 N 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85009. We handle the insurance claim, pay your deductible up to $1000 and provide a free rental car. Book online or call us.
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