You might not think about it often, but lightning can strike your car. When it happens, it can cause damage that’s not easy to spot. Your car might seem fine on the outside, but there could be hidden issues. Wires, electronics, or even the tires could be affected.
In this article, I’ll help you figure out if your car was hit by lightning. I’ll walk you through the signs to look for and what steps to take. Whether it’s checking for strange smells, odd noises, or warning lights, you’ll learn how to spot the damage.
How to Determine Lightning Strike Damage On Your Car: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Check for Visible Exterior Damage
Start by looking closely at the outside of your car. Lightning can cause burns or other marks on your car’s metal parts, like the roof, hood, or trunk. These marks might look like dark spots, cracks, or dents that weren’t there before.
You should also check the paint on your car. Sometimes, lightning can cause the paint to burn or blister, making it look different from the rest of the car.
Take your time and walk around the car, looking at every part to see if you notice anything unusual. It’s important to do this in good light, so you don’t miss anything. If you find any strange marks, it could be a sign that your car was struck by lightning.
2. Inspect the Tires
Next, take a close look at your car’s tires. When lightning strikes a car, it often exits through the tires, which can cause them to get damaged. You might see melted rubber on the tires or find that one or more of them are flat.
In some cases, there could be strange marks on the tires that look like burns or cracks. Run your hand over the tires to feel for any bumps or soft spots that might be signs of damage.
If you find any problems with the tires, it’s important to get them checked by a professional. Damaged tires can be dangerous to drive on, so make sure they’re safe before you take your car out on the road.
3. Examine the Electrical System
Lightning can seriously mess up your car’s electrical system, so checking it is important. Start by turning on the lights, radio, air conditioner, and anything else that runs on electricity.
If something doesn’t work, or if it’s acting strange, like flickering lights or a radio that won’t turn on, there might be damage. Also, look at the dashboard for warning lights that might show up after a lightning strike.
These lights can tell you if there’s a problem with the car’s systems. If you notice anything unusual, it’s best to have a mechanic take a closer look. Electrical problems can get worse over time, so it’s important to fix them right away.
4. Test the Battery
The battery is a key part of your car that could be affected by lightning. If your car doesn’t start, or if it struggles to start, the battery might be damaged. To check the battery, you can use a tool called a multimeter to measure the voltage.
If the voltage is low, it might mean the battery was harmed by the lightning. If you don’t have a multimeter, you can take the car to a mechanic who can test the battery for you.
Even if the car starts, it’s still a good idea to check the battery because lightning damage might not show up right away. A weak battery can leave you stranded, so make sure it’s in good condition before driving.
5. Listen for Unusual Noises
After a lightning strike, your car might start making strange noises. These noises can be a sign that something inside the car is damaged. When you start the car, listen carefully for any sounds that weren’t there before, like clicking, buzzing, or grinding. Pay attention to these sounds while driving, too.
If the car is making unusual noises, it’s best to get it checked by a mechanic. These noises could be a sign of damage to important parts of the car, like the engine or transmission. Ignoring these sounds could lead to bigger problems later on, so it’s better to be safe and get them checked out as soon as possible.
6. Look for Interior Damage
The inside of your car can also be affected by a lightning strike. Check the seats and other parts of the interior for burn marks or melting. Lightning can cause the upholstery to get scorched, leaving dark marks or even small holes.
Also, check any electronic devices inside the car, like the stereo, GPS, or screens. If these devices aren’t working properly, or if they’re completely dead, they might have been damaged by the lightning.
Make sure to test all the electronics to see if they’re functioning as they should. Interior damage might not be as obvious as exterior damage, but it’s still important to check because it can affect the comfort and safety of your car.
7. Get a Professional Inspection
If you think your car was struck by lightning, it’s a good idea to have a professional take a look at it. A mechanic can do a thorough inspection of your car, checking parts that you might not be able to see, like the engine, electrical system, and other components.
They can also run tests to make sure everything is working properly. Even if you don’t see any damage, there could be hidden problems that only a mechanic can find.
8. Contact Your Insurance Company
If you find any damage to your car, the next step is to contact your insurance company. Lightning strikes are usually covered under comprehensive insurance, so your insurance might help pay for the repairs.
When you contact them, be ready to provide details about the damage you found, including any pictures you took. The insurance company might send someone to inspect your car or ask you to take it to a specific repair shop.
It’s important to report the damage as soon as possible, so you can start the process of getting your car fixed. Your insurance company can guide you through the next steps and help you get your car back in good shape.
I hope this guide helps you figure out if your car has been hit by lightning. It’s important to check carefully and stay safe. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to get a professional opinion. Taking care of your car now can save you from bigger problems later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can lightning strike a car while it’s moving?
Yes, lightning can strike a car while it’s moving. The car’s metal body usually directs the electricity around the vehicle and into the ground, keeping passengers safe inside. However, the car itself can still get damaged.
What should I do if I’m in my car during a lightning storm?
If you’re in your car during a lightning storm, stay inside with the windows closed. Avoid touching metal parts or electronics in the car. Your car provides a safe shelter because the metal body directs the lightning around you.
Is it safe to drive a car after a lightning strike?
It may not be safe to drive your car after a lightning strike until it’s inspected. Lightning can cause hidden damage, especially to the electrical system, which might make the car unsafe to drive.
How can I prevent lightning damage to my car?
There’s no way to completely prevent lightning from striking your car, but parking it in a garage during storms can help. If you’re caught in a storm, avoid parking under trees or tall objects that could attract lightning.
Will my car insurance cover lightning strike damage?
Most comprehensive car insurance policies cover damage from lightning strikes. It’s a good idea to review your policy or contact your insurance company to confirm what’s covered.
Can lightning damage the car’s engine?
Yes, lightning can damage the car’s engine, especially if the strike affects the electrical system that controls engine functions. If you notice engine problems after a storm, get it checked by a mechanic.
How long does it take to repair lightning damage to a car?
The time it takes to repair lightning damage depends on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs might only take a few hours, while more serious damage could take several days to fix.
Can a lightning strike affect a car’s brakes?
Yes, a lightning strike could potentially damage the car’s brakes if the electrical systems that control them are affected. If you notice any brake issues after a storm, get them inspected immediately.
What happens if lightning strikes a convertible car?
If lightning strikes a convertible car, the damage could be more severe because there’s less metal to direct the electricity around the vehicle. Always keep the top up during a storm to reduce risk.
How do I know if my car’s electronics are damaged by lightning?
You might notice that some electronic components like the radio, GPS, or lights aren’t working after a storm. If anything electronic in your car is acting strangely, it could be a sign of lightning damage.
