Navigating auto hail repair doesn't have to be complicated. At MetalWorks Auto Hail Solutions, we've perfected a streamlined process to get your vehicle restored quickly and correctly. Our mission is to make your experience as easy and stress-free as possible. Here's what to expect, step-by-step.
File Your Insurance Claim
What happens: Your repair journey begins with your insurance company. You can file your claim online or by calling the number on your insurance card. Be prepared to provide key information such as the date of the hail occurrence, your policy number, the number of vehicles damaged, and where the vehicle was located during the storm.
What happens next: Once your claim is filed, you'll be assigned an adjuster who will reach out to schedule a time to look at the vehicle. Some insurance companies may even offer a video assessment. No matter where or how this initial assessment takes place, please know that the estimate to repair will commonly be 20% or more below the actual cost to repair the damage. Don't worry about this discrepancy — this step is simply required to get the hail repair process officially underway.
Pro Tip
Filing your claim ASAP ensures an expedited hail repair process. If you wait, you can expect to be put on a waiting list for repairs and even for an adjuster to provide that initial estimate. Getting this done promptly means a faster path to a fully restored vehicle.
Prepare for the Adjuster Inspection
What happens: Your assigned adjuster will reach out to set a time and date to inspect your vehicle for hail damage. This inspection might happen in person at your location, or some insurance companies may offer a video assessment.
How to prepare: Before your assessment, it's crucial to document the damage yourself. Take clear pictures and video of your entire vehicle. Get close-up photos of each panel to show the size and density of the dents, and also capture wide-angle pictures of each panel. If you notice any paint chipping, broken glass, or other damage you believe is hail-related, photograph it. Finally, take a slow, comprehensive video walking around your entire car, making sure to include the hood, bumpers, and side mirrors.
What happens next: This preparation is vital. Having your own thorough documentation ensures that you have a clear record of the damage. While initial adjuster estimates often fall short of the true repair cost (sometimes 20% or more), your detailed photos and videos help protect you by providing undeniable proof of all damage.
Pro Tip
It is important to remember that it is YOUR CHOICE when it comes to selecting the shop that repairs your auto hail damage — even if your adjuster "strongly suggests" otherwise.
MetalWorks Assessment & Estimate
What happens: Once you receive your adjuster's initial estimate, bring your vehicle to one of our convenient locations. Upon arrival, our expert technicians will conduct a thorough hail damage estimate, meticulously documenting all damage using a specialized PDR LED lightboard. This detailed assessment ensures nothing is missed, setting the foundation for an accurate repair plan.
What happens next: We provide a comprehensive, transparent estimate. If our assessment uncovers additional damage, we submit a supplement to your insurance to secure all necessary funding, ensuring you minimize what you pay out of pocket. We handle all negotiations with your adjuster to maximize your claim.
The final step: We will contact you to let you know that your estimate or supplement has been approved. Once approved, we promptly begin the Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) process.
Scheduling Your Repair & Preparing for Shop Time
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Repair Scheduling
Once your estimate and/or supplement is approved, we'll schedule your hail repair at your convenience.
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Rental Car Reservation
If you need a rental car, we'll handle the reservation.
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Vehicle Exchange
We offer flexible vehicle pickup, meeting you at the rental agency or at your home/office.
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Rental Coverage
If your insurance doesn't cover a rental, MetalWorks picks up the tab.
The Dent Repair Process: Informed Updates
Vehicle Prep
Washing the damaged areas and carefully removing necessary panels or trim for access.
Access the Dents
Our PDR specialists gain precise access to the dent's underside using specialized tools, often via existing openings or new, discreet points.
Removing / Repairing Dents
Using specialized tools and light boards, our certified technicians gently massage the metal from the inside out, restoring its original contour without damaging the paint.
QC & Final Polish
After all hail damage has been repaired, we perform a rigorous quality check, reassembly, and final polish to ensure your vehicle is pristine for pickup.
Need Help? MetalWorks Is Here for You
From your first call to a washed, detailed, dent-free delivery, our customer service team guides you through the entire hail claims and repair process. If you have a question at any step, reach out — we're here to make this easy.