How Hail Damage Is Mapped Under Specialized Lighting

After a hailstorm, the obvious dents are only part of the story.

Many vehicles have dozens—or even hundreds—of dents that aren't visible under normal lighting.

Why Specialized Lighting Matters

Professional hail inspections use bright LED lights and reflection boards that create consistent patterns across the vehicle's surface.

Even tiny distortions in the reflection reveal dents that would otherwise go unnoticed.

This process is far more accurate than inspecting a vehicle outdoors.

Every Panel Is Inspected

Each panel is examined individually, including:

• Hood

• Roof

• Trunk or liftgate

• Fenders

• Doors

• Quarter panels

The technician records both the number and size of dents to determine the appropriate repair method.

More Than Just Counting Dents

The location of each dent matters.

For example, dents near:

• Body lines

• Reinforcements

• Panel edges

• Aluminum panels

• Sharp creases

may require a different repair approach than dents in flat sections.

Why This Matters

A proper mapping process helps ensure:

• Insurance documentation is accurate

• Repairs are planned correctly

• Additional damage isn't overlooked

• Customers receive a complete repair rather than an incomplete one

Professional hail mapping is one of the most important steps in the repair process—and one that's impossible to duplicate with a quick parking lot inspection.