When Hail Hits – Simple Ways to Keep Your Car Safe

Hailstorms are a major threat to vehicles, causing dents, shattered windows, and expensive repairs. In 2023 alone, there were over 6,900 hail events across the U.S., leading to billions in damages. If your car is caught in a storm, you could be facing significant repair costs—but there are proven ways to protect your vehicle from hail damage.

At PDRTX Smart Auto Repair, we specialize in hail damage repair, dent removal, and paint protection solutions. Whether you’re looking for preventative measures or professional repair services, this guide will help you keep your car safe from hailstorms.

🚗 Need auto hail damage repair? Get a free online estimate or call (469) 903-4669 today.

Why Hail Damage Is Dangerous for Your Car

Hail is formed during severe thunderstorms, where water droplets freeze high in the atmosphere before falling as solid ice. Depending on size and speed, hailstones can cause minor dents or completely wreck your vehicle's exterior.

Common Types of Hail Damage:

✔ Dents & dings: Even small hailstones can leave unsightly dents on your car’s hood, roof, and trunk.
✔ Cracked or shattered windshields: Larger hailstones can break glass, reducing visibility and safety.
✔ Paint damage & rust: Hail can chip paint, exposing metal to rust and corrosion.
✔ Structural weakening: Severe impacts can weaken your car’s frame and body panels, leading to long-term issues.

🔗 Learn more: Hail Damage Car Repair – What to Do Next

How to Protect Your Car from Hail

1. Use a Garage or Covered Parking

The best way to protect your car from hail is keeping it indoors. If you have a garage, always use it during storm season. If a garage isn’t available, consider:

✔ Carports – Permanent or temporary structures that provide solid protection.
✔ Public covered parking – Parking garages or structures can shield your car.
✔ Strategic parking – If you’re caught outside, park near large buildings that block hail from one side.

🔗 Need to fix previous damage? Check out our Auto Hail Repair Services.

2. Invest in a Hail-Proof Car Cover

A high-quality car cover acts as a barrier against hail damage. Look for:

✔ Thick, padded materials – These absorb impact from hailstones.
✔ Waterproof, breathable fabrics – Prevents paint damage from moisture buildup.
✔ Secure fit – Reduces movement during wind and storms.

3. Portable Shelters & Emergency Solutions

If you don’t have access to permanent covered parking, portable solutions can help:

✔ Pop-up canopies & portable garages – Quick to set up, offering temporary protection.
✔ Thick blankets or floor mats – If you’re caught in a storm, covering your car with household items can help reduce hail impact.

🔗 Protect your car’s exterior with Paint Protection Film (PPF).

How PPF Helps Protect Your Car from Hail

Paint Protection Film (PPF) is a transparent, impact-resistant film applied to your car’s exterior. While PPF cannot prevent large dents from severe hailstorms, it greatly reduces damage from small to medium-sized hail.

How PPF Works Against Hail:

✔ Absorbs impact – Acts as a cushion, reducing the force of hailstones.
✔ Prevents scratches & paint chips – If hail does hit, it won’t leave deep scratches.
✔ Self-healing properties – Minor damage can repair itself with heat over time.

What to Consider Before Getting PPF:

✔ Cost: PPF installation ranges from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on coverage and film quality.
✔ Professional installation: Choose certified technicians for a seamless, bubble-free application.
✔ Coverage options: Full-body PPF provides the best hail protection, but partial coverage is available for high-impact areas like the hood and roof.

🔗 Learn more: Pros & Cons of Installing PPF on New Cars

🚗 Interested in PPF? Call (469) 903-4669 or schedule a free estimate.

What to Do If a Hailstorm Catches You Off Guard

1. Find Immediate Shelter

✔ Look for a garage, gas station, or parking structure.
✔ If driving, pull over under a bridge or highway overpass.
✔ DO NOT park under trees—falling branches can cause worse damage than hail.

2. Use Emergency Protection

✔ Use blankets, floor mats, or any thick materials to cover the car’s surface.
✔ Position your car so the windshield faces the hail, as windshields are reinforced glass and less likely to shatter than side windows.

Think About Car Insurance for Hail Protection

Sometimes, hail damage is unavoidable, which is why comprehensive car insurance is essential. Policies that cover hail typically include:

✔ Storm-related repairs
✔ Glass replacement
✔ Total loss settlements for severe damage

If you live in hail-prone areas like Texas, Colorado, or the Midwest, make sure your policy covers weather-related damage.

🔗 Read more: Does Car Insurance Cover Hail Damage?

FAQs: Hail Protection for Cars

Does Ceramic Coating Protect Against Hail?

No, ceramic coatings protect against scratches and UV damage, but they do not absorb impact from hailstones.

Does Paint Protection Film (PPF) Prevent Hail Damage?

PPF can reduce hail impact and prevent scratches, but severe storms may still cause dents and for that you'll need auto hail repair.

🔗 Explore our PPF Services.

Do Hail-Resistant Car Covers Work?

Yes, padded hail covers can help absorb impact, but they may not fully prevent damage from large hailstones.

How Can I Protect My Car from Hail Without a Garage?

✔ Use a hail-resistant car cover
✔ Find a parking garage or covered area
✔ Invest in a portable shelter

Get a Free Hail Damage Repair Estimate Today

If your car has been damaged by hail, don’t wait—unrepaired dents and scratches can lead to rust and costly repairs. At PDRTX Smart Auto Repair, we offer:

✔ Expert hail damage repair in Celina & DFW
✔ Certified technicians & insurance-approved repairs
✔ Fast, free repair estimates

📞 Call (469) 903-4669 or Get a Free Estimate Online today!