Sandstorm damage
Sandstorm damage to cars in Iceland is caused by sand and ash storms blowing loose ash and gravel off the ground towards the car. In heavy wind this can seriously damage the paint of the car, glass and windshields. This is not what people do expect when coming to Iceland but in reality these events are pretty common and can cause severe damage to vehicles driving around Iceland, even while driving on road 1. In dry and windy weather the risk of sand and ash storms increases drastically.
Sandstorm damage to cars in Iceland is caused by sand and ash storms blowing loose ash and gravel off the ground towards the car.
Sand and ash storms can damage the paint, glass, lights and numerous other parts of the car. The renter is liable to pay for the repair unless buying special insurance: Premium Protection Package(PCDW). Please note that the Sand and ash storm protection is also included in the Premium protection package. Make sure you are covered because the average damage cost is between 5.000 – 17.000 EUR.
In windy weather we recommend staying away from areas known for risk of sandstorms. If you see a storm ahead, stop, find a safe place for the car and wait for the storm to pass. We recommend that renters monitor the weather each day.
A car rental vehicle damaged in the southeast of Iceland due to sand and ash storm