News & Advice

Yes, hail can indeed be bad for your car. Hailstones, which can range in size from a pea to a golf ball or even larger, can cause significant damage to the exterior of your car. In severe cases, they can break windshields or windows, dent the roof, hood, or trunk, and damage side mirrors. Here’s a closer look at the potential impacts:

• Body Damage: The most common type of damage from hail is dents and dings in the car’s body. The metal panels of a car’s hood, roof, and trunk are particularly vulnerable. Depending on the size and velocity of the hailstones, this can range from minor cosmetic issues to major damage.
• Windshield and Window Damage: Hail can crack or shatter windshields and windows, especially if it’s large or falling at high speed. This can be a serious safety concern.
• Paint Damage: Hail can chip the paint off a car, leading to an uneven appearance. If left unrepaired, this can lead to further problems like rusting.
• Interior Damage: If hail breaks a window or sunroof, your car’s interior can be exposed to the elements. This can lead to wet seats, floor mats, and internal damage.
• Diminished Value: Apart from the visible damage, hail can significantly reduce a car’s resale value. Even after repairs, the fact that a car has had significant hail damage can be a deterrent to potential buyers.

Protecting your car from hail is recommended whenever possible. This can be as simple as parking under cover, monitoring weather reports for potential hail, or using car covers when hail is expected. If your car does get damaged by hail, contact your insurance company promptly to discuss your coverage and the next steps for repair.