While it may be a great deal if you’re fine with some cosmetic damage, you should make sure to pay closer attention before you close the deal on one of these. (see our article Hail Damaged New Car: Deal or No Deal)
Is the Hail Damage Purely Cosmetic?
Sometimes the seemingly minor damage is misleading – a fierce storm producing large hail can cause some serious damage to more than just the exterior of a vehicle. Make sure you consult your auto technician before purchasing a hail damaged vehicle even if the price is temptingly low. Remember there might be a reason other than dimples that those thousands of dollars came off the initial price of the vehicle.
Will a Dented Car Affect Your Financing?
If you’re looking to purchase a vehicle with financing, make sure your lender will finance a hail damaged vehicle. It’s also a good idea to see if the dealer you’re purchasing from will fix the damage or offer a warranty on the vehicle. Another important factor to consider with hail damaged car deals is whether or not you’ll still be eligible for comprehensive insurance, which most lenders will require while you have a balance on your auto loan.
Think About the Resale Value for a Hail Dented Car?
If you’re not planning on having the car for an exceptionally long time and are looking to resell it for some cash to go toward your next vehicle purchase, you’ll want to think long and hard about how much the hail damage will impact the resell value. See our article Saving your Car from Hail Damage)
Should You Claim Hail Damage on Your Vehicle?
If it’s your car that’s been damaged, it’s debatable whether or not you should claim the damage. Hail damage is only covered under comprehensive insurance, and USA Today reports that carinsurance.com recommends not bothering with a claim unless the damage amount exceeds your deductible. If you own the car outright and can live with the damage, opting to pocket the insurance check, just remember that amount will be taken out of future damage claims. If you still owe on an auto loan, you will likely have to get the vehicle fixed.
How to Use this Information
We hope this helps if you are considering those hail damaged car deals that are being advertised. There’s plenty to consider when hail damage strikes, whether you’re in the market for a new vehicle or dealing with the damage on a car you already own. If you are looking to get the damage repaired or have other auto care needs, we’d love to help you get your vehicle in tip top shape. Call us at 303-344-2212 or contact us online.
