How to Spot Hail Damage You Might Be Missing

Look in the right light

Hail dents are shallow and easy to miss in flat or overhead light. The best way to see them is in low, angled sunlight, early morning or late afternoon, or under a single bright light in a garage. Sight down the length of the hood, roof, and trunk at an angle and watch for a field of small dimples.

Check the spots people forget

Most people glance at the hood and stop. Hail hits horizontal surfaces hardest, so the roof and trunk often take the worst of it, and those are the panels you cannot see from the driver seat. Do not forget the tops of the fenders, the side mirrors, and any plastic trim, which can crack.

Feel for what you cannot see

Run your hand slowly across the metal. Very small dents that you cannot pick out by eye will show up as a faint texture under your palm.

When in doubt, get it inspected

Hail damage can lower your trade in value even when it looks minor, and there is a window to file an insurance claim after a storm. A free inspection takes a few minutes and gives you a clear answer.