Local
North Phoenix hailstorm leaves drivers facing costly repairs and insurance claims
Golf ball-size hail damaged vehicles across North Phoenix Wednesday night, with one shop estimating nearly $10,000 in repairs to a Ford Explorer. A local repair shop owner urges drivers to contact their insurers promptly and check windshields and roof openings for damage.
Golf ball-size hail that struck North Phoenix Wednesday night left some vehicles with damage that could cost more to repair than the cars are worth, according to Steve Gaines, owner of GB Service Center.
Gaines said the storm caused some of the worst hail damage he has seen in about 15 years. He pointed to a 2023 Ford Explorer with dents across its hood, doors and trim, as well as a broken tail light and cracked windshield. He estimated repairs could approach $10,000 and take about two weeks, potentially exceeding the vehicle’s value.
The shop had received five calls by midmorning Wednesday from drivers seeking inspections, Gaines said. He advised vehicle owners to notify their insurance companies soon, even if they have not decided whether to make repairs.
“Anytime somebody gets in an accident or has hail damage like this, they need to call their insurance company and let them know immediately,” Gaines said.
An insurer’s adjuster can assess the damage and determine whether repairs are feasible or the vehicle should be declared a total loss. Gaines said drivers with comprehensive coverage may receive the vehicle’s replacement value if it is totaled, though some may have the option to buy back the damaged car. Drivers with liability-only coverage or no insurance may have to pay for repairs themselves, he said.
Hail damage can also affect a vehicle’s resale value, even after repairs. Greg Mortenson, whose car was struck while he was inside a T-Mobile store, said he bought the vehicle in June and hopes his insurer will declare it a total loss. He said damage history would have to be disclosed to a future buyer.
Mortenson spent 34 years in the auto industry, including helping customers pursue diminished-value claims. He said he had not expected to face the issue with his own car. Still, he said he was relieved nobody was hurt and that he would work with the insurer to resolve the damage.
Gaines also cautioned drivers to address cracked windshields, which can impair visibility. Replacing a windshield may take about an hour, but recalibrating sensors in newer vehicles can bring the total cost to about $1,500, he said. Broken sunroofs and moonroofs should be repaired quickly as well to keep possible rain from damaging vehicle interiors.