Hail damage isn’t always obvious. While large dents and shattered glass are easy to spot, smaller damage often goes unnoticed, leading to long-term issues like rust or reduced vehicle value. Identifying hidden hail damage early is crucial for effective repairs and avoiding costly complications. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips to help you uncover hidden hail damage and ensure your car stays in top condition.

1. Inspect Your Car in Good Lighting

Proper lighting can make all the difference when checking for hail damage:

• Natural Light: Examine your vehicle in bright daylight for the best visibility.
• At an Angle: Look at the surface from different angles to catch small dents that may not be visible straight on.

Pro Tip: Use a flashlight or portable light in darker conditions to highlight subtle imperfections.

2. Run Your Hands Over the Surface

Sometimes your hands can detect damage your eyes might miss:

• Feel for Irregularities: Gently run your hand over the hood, roof, and other panels to detect bumps or indentations.
• Focus on Flat Areas: Hail typically causes the most noticeable damage on flat surfaces like the roof and hood.

3. Check Glass Components Carefully

Glass damage can be subtle but impactful:

• Look for Chips or Cracks: Even small chips in the windshield or windows can worsen over time.
• Inspect Seals: Check the edges of your windows for damage that could allow water to seep in.

Pro Tip: Use a magnifying glass for a closer inspection of smaller chips.

4. Examine the Underside of Roof Panels

Roof panels are often overlooked but are prone to hail damage:

• Use a Step Ladder: For SUVs or trucks, use a ladder to get a clear view of the roof.
• Check the Interior Roof Lining: Look for any signs of distortion or unevenness inside the car, as dents may push through to the interior.

5. Look for Paint Damage

Hail can chip or scratch your car’s paint:

• Inspect for Tiny Chips: Even minor paint damage can expose the metal underneath, leading to rust.
• Check in Reflective Light: Use reflective light to spot imperfections that may not be visible otherwise.

6. Pay Attention to Hidden Areas

Hail damage isn’t limited to obvious surfaces:

• Side Panels and Doors: Check door edges, side panels, and mirrors for dents or scratches.
• Trunk and Hood Edges: Look for damage along the edges of the trunk and hood, as these areas are often overlooked.

7. Use Professional Tools for Detection

If you’re still unsure, professional tools can help:

• Dent Detectors: Specialized tools used by professionals can reveal dents invisible to the naked eye.
• 3D Imaging: Advanced imaging technology maps the surface of your car, identifying every imperfection.

Fix Hail Free uses state-of-the-art tools to detect even the smallest hail damage during inspections.