Hail damage on a car typically appears as a collection of small, round dents or dimples concentrated on the horizontal surfaces of the vehicle, primarily the hood, roof, and trunk. The size and depth of these dents can vary significantly depending on the size of the hailstones. You might also see chipped or cracked paint, and in severe cases, cracked glass on the windshield or windows.
The key identifier is the pattern. Unlike a single dent from a shopping cart, hail damage is almost always a widespread, random pattern of dents. The metal panels act like a drum skin, showing impacts wherever the ice struck. The severity is often categorized by the dent's depth and the resulting repair cost, which can range from minor cosmetic issues to totals requiring panel replacement or even writing off the vehicle.
| Hailstone Size (Diameter) | Typical Dent Size & Severity | Potential for Paint Damage | Estimated Repair Approach |
|---|
| Pea (1/4 inch) | Pin-sized, very shallow dents. Often called "halo" dents. | Unlikely | Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is highly effective. |
| Quarter (1 inch) | Noticeable dimples, clearly visible. | Possible, but not guaranteed. | PDR is the standard and most cost-effective method. |
| Golf Ball (1.75 inches) | Deep, distinct dents. Panels look heavily textured. | Likely, especially in the center of dents. | Combination of PDR and conventional bodywork/repainting. |
| Baseball (2.75 inches) | Very large, deep craters. Metal may be stretched. | Almost certain, with a high risk of cracking. | Often requires panel replacement and full repaint. |
| Softball (4 inches+) | Severe craters, potential for punctured metal. | Certain, with extensive damage. | High likelihood of the vehicle being declared a total loss. |
To check for damage, look at your car under direct sunlight. The angled light will make the shadows of the dents much more visible than under cloudy or flat light. Run your hand over the hood and roof; you will feel the textured surface. It's crucial to have a professional inspection for an accurate assessment, as hidden damage can lead to rust and more expensive problems later.
