Sunday’s severe storms across Gauteng have left many motorists facing the unwelcome prospect of hail-damaged vehicles, with dents, damaged windscreens and other damage potentially adding to the cost and inconvenience of an already disruptive weather event.
While the immediate priority during a storm is personal safety, motorists now need to take a considered approach to assessing and repairing any vehicle damage, says Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), a constituent association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).
“Following a major hailstorm, we typically see an increase in enquiries from motorists who are understandably concerned about the condition of their vehicles and what the damage will mean for them financially. Our advice is not to panic or rush into repairs. The first step is to have the vehicle properly assessed by a reputable, suitably qualified motor body repairer who understands hail damage and the available repair options,” says Hanekom.
Hail damage can range from relatively minor dents to more extensive damage affecting multiple body panels, windscreens, windows, lights and other vehicle components. Even when the damage appears largely cosmetic, a professional assessment is important to establish the full extent of the damage.
Understanding your repair options
One of the most commonly used methods of repairing hail damage is Paintless Dent Removal (PDR). This specialised technique uses trained technicians and purpose-designed tools to access the affected panels and carefully massage the dents out from behind, restoring the original surface without the need for conventional panel beating, filling or repainting.
“PDR can be an excellent solution where the paintwork remains intact and the dents are suitable for this type of repair. It is often quicker and helps retain the vehicle’s original factory paint finish,” explains Hanekom.
However, PDR is not suitable for every type of hail damage.
Where hailstones have caused deep dents, damaged the paintwork or stretched the metal, conventional panel repairs or even panel replacement may be necessary. Horizontal panels such as the roof, bonnet and boot lid can be particularly vulnerable during severe hailstorms because they are directly exposed to falling hailstones.
A professional repairer will be able to determine which repair method is most appropriate, taking into account the extent of the damage, the condition of the paintwork and the vehicle’s construction.
What should motorists do if their vehicle has been damaged?
Hanekom offers the following practical advice:
• Document the damage: Take clear photographs of all visible damage, including the roof, bonnet, boot, doors, windows and windscreens. Keep a record of when and where the damage occurred.
• Contact your insurer: If you are insured, notify your insurance company as soon as possible and establish its specific claims process. Insurance policies, excesses and repair authorisation requirements differ, so it is important to follow your insurer’s guidance before committing to repairs.
• Don’t rush into repairs: Avoid authorising work or accepting repair arrangements before your insurer has confirmed the assessment and claims process, where applicable.
• Choose a reputable repairer: Use a SAMBRA-accredited motor body repairer with the necessary skills, equipment and experience to assess and repair hail damage. Be cautious of unsolicited offers from operators approaching motorists in the aftermath of a storm.
• Check for hidden damage: If your windscreen or other glass has been damaged, have it professionally assessed. Also ensure that any affected lights, mirrors, cameras or driver-assistance sensors are checked before returning the vehicle to normal use.
• Don’t drive an unsafe vehicle: Broken glass, damaged windscreens, compromised visibility or loose body components can make a vehicle unsafe. Arrange professional advice before continuing to drive if there is any doubt.
A significant hailstorm can place considerable pressure on the motor body repair industry, with a sudden increase in demand for assessments, specialised PDR technicians, replacement panels and other components.
“Motorists should understand that a widespread hail event can affect repair turnaround times. Repairers and insurers may need to manage a substantial number of claims simultaneously, and certain parts or specialised services may take longer to secure. We encourage motorists to be patient, keep in regular contact with their insurer and repairer, and make sure they understand the expected timelines,” says Hanekom.
He adds that motorists should not compromise on the quality of repairs simply to get their vehicles back on the road sooner.
“Your vehicle is a significant investment, and the quality of the repair matters. A properly assessed and professionally repaired vehicle is always preferable to a quick fix that may create further problems down the line,” concludes Hanekom.