Hail repair cost depends on how many dents there are, how deep, which panels are involved and whether paint cracked. A dozen small dents on a hood is a different job from hundreds across the whole car. Get a written estimate and compare it with your comprehensive deductible.
Key takeaways
- Dent count and depth drive cost.
- Roofs and hoods cost more.
- Paint cracks add work.
Count, depth and location
Shops count dents per panel and note size. Dents near edges and body lines cost more.
Repair or replace
A panel with too many dents may be cheaper to replace and paint.
Paint condition
If paint cracked, finishing is needed. If it did not, less work is needed.
Insurance path
Hail is handled under comprehensive coverage, with its own deductible.
Total loss risk
On older cars, widespread damage can reach the total-loss line.
What the estimate looks like
A hail estimate usually lists dents per panel in size ranges, such as small, medium and large, and notes the panel's material and shape. The roof, hood and trunk lid carry the most. The shop then prices repair or replacement per panel and adds refinishing where paint is damaged.
If your car has aluminum panels, the estimate may differ because aluminum does not respond to dent repair as steel does.
Questions to ask
Ask how many dents were counted, which panels will be repaired and which replaced, and why. Ask whether any paint repair is included and what the warranty covers. If the insurer's estimate differs from the shop's, ask for a line-by-line comparison.
Also ask how long the car will be in the shop. Large hail jobs take longer. If the damage is widespread, ask whether your insurer might consider the car a total loss and how that decision is made.
Get a free estimate in Santa Clara
Questions about hail damage repair? Read our Hail Damage Repair page, call (408) 243-2530, or send photos through the estimate form. International Auto Center Body Shop, 1499 Lincoln St, Santa Clara, CA 95050. Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Frequently asked questions
How many dents make it worthwhile?
Any number can be repaired. Cost scales.
Do aluminum panels cost more?
They can.
Will insurance total my car?
Possibly if damage is extensive.
Do I pay a deductible?
Yes, under comprehensive.
Related reading
Sources
- California Legislature, Vehicle Code section 544 (total loss definition)