Storms like Hurricane Helene or Milton can wreak havoc on vehicles, leaving owners with the difficult decision of repairing or replacing a storm-damaged car. The extent of the harm varies significantly from hail dents to flood damage.
Whether it’s worth repairing depends on several factors, including the severity of the damage, the type of damage, insurance coverage, and the car’s overall value. In this article we will offer you insight into if it’s worth repairing a storm damaged car or if you should let it go.
Types of Storm Damage
Storm damage can manifest in several ways, with each type requiring different levels of repair and cost:
- Hail Damage: Hailstorms can cause extensive dents and cracks to a car’s exterior, particularly the hood, roof, and trunk. While dents may be purely cosmetic, broken windshields or damaged body panels can be more expensive.
- Flood Damage: Floodwaters can enter a car’s engine, transmission, or electrical systems, leading to significant and costly mechanical problems. Water damage may leave lasting issues, including corrosion and electrical malfunctions, even after repairs.
- Wind and Debris Damage: Strong winds can hurl debris, causing scratches, broken windows, and dents. In more severe cases, falling trees or branches may cause structural damage.
- Lightning Damage: Although rare, lightning can fry a car’s electrical system, damaging critical components like the GPS, stereo, or wiring. These repairs can be complex and expensive.
Assessing the Extent of Damage
Before making any decisions, you can perform a preliminary assessment of your car. Look for surface damage like dents, scratches, or broken windows. However, keep in mind that underlying issues—especially after flooding—can make repairs far more costly and complex. Flood damage, in particular, can affect everything from the car’s engine and brakes to its electrical system, which may not be immediately apparent.
Insurance Coverage
Your insurance policy will significantly affect whether repairing the car is financially viable. If you have comprehensive coverage, it likely includes storm damage, such as hail, floods, or falling objects. However, remember that you’ll still need to cover the deductible. If the repair costs are lower than the car’s value minus your deductible, repairing may be worth it.
In cases where the car is declared a total loss—meaning the repair costs exceed a substantial percentage of the car’s value—insurance companies may compensate you for the car’s market value instead. For example, if the cost of repairs exceeds 70-80% of the car’s value, it’s likely to be declared a total loss.
Cost of Repairs vs. Car Value
One of the most important factors is the relationship between repair costs and the car’s market value. If the cost of repairs exceeds 70-80% of the car’s value, insurance companies typically declare the vehicle a total loss. In such cases, it’s only worth repairing the car if you’re attached to it for sentimental reasons. On the other hand, repairs may be relatively affordable and worth the investment if the damage is cosmetic or minor, like a cracked windshield or dents.
Resale Value
Even if you decide to repair your storm-damaged car, its resale value may still be affected. Water damage, in particular, can reduce a car’s future value even if repairs are done correctly, as buyers may be wary of potential lingering issues. If you plan to keep the car for a long time, this might be a minor concern, but if you’re considering selling soon, this can impact your decision.
Contact Us
Sometimes repairing a storm damaged car can be too costly. Thankfully, when your car is dead, you can sell it to Fred.
To learn more about the services that we can offer you, contact us today by calling us at (503) 810-3061 or click here to connect with us online.
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