Repairing a Car Damaged by Hail: When Nature Goes Wild
Certain forces of nature offer a beautiful spectacle. So when the rain turns to hail, you admire the poetry of the scene. Until you realize that your car is strafed by angry little ice balls. These few tips will help you repair your hail damaged car and tell you when to take it to the professionals.
DIY
The Hair Dryer:
If your car has only suffered small dents that did not damage the paint, it is possible to lift the metal using a hair dryer. The heat will expand the metal and the recess will straighten out. In theory. This technique only works on very small indentations. Direct the dryer for two minutes on the indentation, until the metal rises. Keep a distance of a few inches between the end of the dryer and the surface of the body. Your neighbors will think you've lost your mind trying to dry your car's hair, but ... as long as it works!
Repair:
Kits These inexpensive kits can be found at most auto repair stores. Instructions are easy to follow. But don't you dare try these kits on large pits as you may make the situation worse.
Call the Pros:
To make sure that the indentations due to hailstones do not turn into gaping holes as a result of your DIY attempts, go to a professional. You may only have to pay the deductible if your insurance claim is within the terms of your property and casualty insurance. Be sure to get multiple quotes. Choose a workshop you can trust.
Prevention:
And now your car's body is smooth and perfect again. You are outraged at the very thought of another hailstorm attacking your four-wheeled treasure. You do not have access to underground or covered parking? Buy a car cover and don't forget to use it whenever you say “hail” on a weather report. Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded and covered area. Another thing: the idea may seem incongruous, but if you are caught off guard and know that a thunderstorm is brewing, park your car in the underground parking lot of a shopping mall. Your self is not yet speaking, but it will thank you for it.