Hail Damage to Your Car in Texas? Here Are the Most Asked Questions—Answered

Texas weather is nothing if not unpredictable. One minute the sky is clear and sunny, and the next, you’re caught in a hailstorm with your car completely exposed. Hail can leave behind everything from small dings to shattered windshields and crushed roofs—turning your vehicle into a visual reminder of nature’s force.

If you’re one of the many Texans dealing with hail damage this year, you likely have a lot of questions—and probably some frustration too. Whether it’s your first experience or just your most recent battle with severe weather, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the most frequently asked questions about hail damage, insurance, repairs, costs, and how to protect your car in the future.

Let’s get right into it.

What Should I Do Immediately After Hail Hits My Car?

The moments right after a hailstorm are crucial. What you do—or don’t do—can significantly impact your insurance claim, repair costs, and even your car’s long-term value.

Here’s what you should do step by step:

1. Wait Until It’s Safe

Make sure the storm has fully passed and there are no additional hazards, such as high winds or flying debris. Your safety always comes first.

2. Inspect and Document the Damage

Once it’s safe, walk around your vehicle and take photos from every angle. Focus on dents, broken glass, damage to the roof, hood, and trunk, and don’t forget the mirrors and headlights. Take both wide-angle and close-up shots. Videos can also help provide context, especially if there’s extensive damage.

3. Cover Any Open Areas

If your windows or sunroof were damaged, tape up a temporary plastic cover to prevent rain from entering your car. Water intrusion can lead to mold, electrical issues, and worse.

4. Avoid DIY Repairs

It might be tempting to “pop out” small dents yourself, but resist the urge. Not only can it make the damage worse, but it may also void any potential insurance claim.

5. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Report the incident as soon as possible. Most insurance companies have a claim window—waiting too long could affect your eligibility for coverage.

Is Hail Damage Covered by My Auto Insurance?

Hail damage is generally covered, but it depends on what type of insurance policy you have.

Comprehensive Insurance

This is what protects your car from “acts of God” like hail, flooding, falling trees, and theft. If you have comprehensive coverage, hail damage is typically included, and your repair costs will be covered—minus your deductible.

Liability-Only Insurance

If you only have liability insurance, you’re out of luck when it comes to hail. Liability coverage only pays for damage you cause to other people—not to your own vehicle.

Tip: If you live in hail-prone areas like Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, or San Antonio, it’s highly recommended to add comprehensive coverage to your policy, even if your car is paid off.

How Do I File an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage?

Filing a hail claim may seem overwhelming, but it’s actually pretty straightforward if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Call or Log In

Contact your insurance provider through their website, app, or customer service line. Be prepared with your policy number and a general description of the damage.

Step 2: Submit Evidence

Upload your photos and videos. The more documentation you provide, the faster your claim will be processed.

Step 3: Schedule a Damage Inspection

An insurance adjuster will assess the extent of the damage. This may be done in person or virtually, depending on your insurer.

Step 4: Get a Repair Estimate

After the adjuster provides their estimate, you can take your car to a local hail repair specialist for a second opinion or official estimate. It’s perfectly fine to shop around.

Step 5: Choose Your Repair Shop

You are not obligated to use your insurance company’s “preferred” shop. Choose a repair shop you trust—especially one with experience in hail damage and paintless dent repair (PDR).

Step 6: Complete Repairs and Payment

Once your insurance company gives the green light, schedule your repairs. If you have a deductible (say $500 or $1,000), that’s the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket. We can cover that expense for you up to $1000.

What Are My Options for Repairing Hail Damage?

Your repair options depend on how severe the damage is, but here are the three most common methods:

1. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)

PDR is the preferred method for hail damage repair when the paint is still intact. Skilled technicians use specialized tools to access the backside of the panels and gently massage out the dents.

Benefits of PDR:

- No repainting required

- Retains your factory finish

- Faster turnaround

- More affordable than traditional repairs

2. Traditional Auto Body Repair

If the paint is chipped or there are sharp dents and creases, PDR won’t cut it. In these cases, technicians will need to:

- Sand and fill the dents

- Repaint the affected panels

- Possibly replace severely damaged parts

This method takes longer and costs more, but it’s sometimes the only option for restoring your car’s appearance.

3. Hybrid Approach

In some cases, a mix of PDR and traditional methods is used. This is common when hail has impacted different areas of the car with varying severity.

Pro Tip: Ask your repair shop to walk you through which method they recommend and why. Reputable shops will show you photos and explain their process clearly.

How Much Does Hail Damage Repair Cost?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:

- Small Dents (up to 1”): $30 to $45 per dent

- Medium Dents (1”–2”): $50 to $75 per dent

- Large Dents (2”+): $75 or more per dent

- Extensive Damage: $1,000 to $3,500+ for full panels, roof, or hoods

Keep in mind that insurance will usually cover the full cost, minus your deductible. If your car is totaled (meaning the cost of repair exceeds the car’s value), your insurance company will offer you a payout based on the vehicle’s market value.

At The Hail Expert, we offer free inspections and competitive rates, working directly with your insurance company to eliminate hassle and maximize coverage.

How Long Does It Take to Repair Hail Damage?

The timeline varies based on the severity of the damage and the method of repair.

- Minor Damage with PDR: 1–3 days

- Moderate Damage: 3–7 days

- Severe Damage or Traditional Repairs: 1–2 weeks or longer

During hail season, many shops are backed up for weeks. Try to book early and ask if the shop offers rental car assistance or mobile repair services.

Need quick turnaround? The Hail Expert specializes in fast and efficient hail repair across the Dallas Metroplex.

Will Hail Damage Affect My Vehicle’s Resale Value?

Absolutely—if left unrepaired.

Even if the damage is only cosmetic, it can significantly reduce your car’s trade-in or resale value. Dealerships will often deduct the estimated repair cost from your offer, and private buyers may walk away altogether.

If you plan to sell or trade in your car in the near future, it’s smart to get the hail damage professionally fixed. PDR is especially good at restoring value since it keeps the original paint job intact.

Do I Have to Use the Repair Shop My Insurance Recommends?

No—you have the right to choose your own repair facility.

Insurance companies often have “preferred vendors” or “direct repair programs” they work with, but you are not legally required to use them. You can choose a local hail damage specialist who may offer faster service, better results, and more personalized care.

What to Look For in a Repair Shop:

- Certified technicians

- Experience with PDR and hail repair

- Lifetime warranty on work

- Ability to work with your insurance company

- Free inspection and estimate

Located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area? The Hail Expert is your trusted local partner for hassle-free hail repair.

How Can I Prevent Hail Damage in the Future?

While you can’t control the weather, you can be better prepared next time.

Use Covered Parking

Whether it’s a garage, carport, or parking garage, get your car under shelter when storms are on the radar.

Buy a Hail-Proof Car Cover

These thick, padded covers are designed to absorb impact from hailstones. Some even inflate with air for added protection.

Monitor Local Weather Alerts

Download a storm alert app or sign up for text alerts from your local news station. When hail is in the forecast, move your car to safety.

Consider Adding Comprehensive Coverage

If you’ve been lucky so far, don’t wait for your luck to run out. Hail can strike any time in Texas, and coverage can save you thousands.

Final Thoughts: Take Control After the Storm

Dealing with hail damage is never fun—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information, the right insurance, and a trusted repair partner, you can navigate the process confidently and efficiently.

Remember:

- Document everything.

- Contact your insurer quickly.

- Choose a reputable local repair shop.

- Don’t delay—repairs protect your vehicle’s value.

If your car has been hit by hail and you’re not sure where to start, you’re not alone. Texas weather may be wild, but you’re more than capable of getting through it with the right plan in place.

Need expert help today? Request a free quote from The Hail Expert and let us handle the hard part—so you can get back on the road, dent-free.