Paintless Dent Repair by Dent Express

What is Paintless Dent Repair?

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is a specialized technique where technicians use unique tools to gently push the metal back into its original shape from behind the dent.

The Dreaded First Dent

For new car owners, that first dent can be a devastating experience. No matter how it happens, many fear their car will never look the same again. But with the right expertise, many dents and dings can be repaired without a trace, often without even disturbing the original paint.

Consumer Awareness is Growing

Over the past decade, PDR has gained traction among car dealerships, rental agencies, and auction houses as an effective way to prepare vehicles for resale. Unfortunately, many consumers are still unaware of this process.

Innovative tools and techniques have been developed to remove dents—sometimes as large as a football—from nearly any vehicle body panel, all without the need for sanding, body filler, or repainting. In most cases, once the repair is complete, the dent is virtually invisible.

Rising Popularity of PDR

The use of PDR is on the rise, particularly as the size of dents that can be effectively repaired has increased significantly.

The introduction of high-strength metals and resilient paint finishes has made PDR a viable alternative to traditional body repair methods.

What Can Be Repaired?

PDR is effective for various situations, including:

• Small to large dents
• Vehicles of various models and years
• Dents where the paint remains unbroken and uncracked
• Dents located away from the edge of a panel
• Panels without previous body repairs

While not all damage can be completely repaired using PDR, most repairs render the damage nearly unnoticeable.

Advantages of Paintless Dent Repair

The benefits of PDR include:

• No repainting or body filler required
• Typically more affordable than traditional repairs
• Same-day service in most cases
• No risk of paint overspray on other vehicle areas
• No concerns about color matching
• The vehicle retains its original paint, preserving its value

Maintaining the original paint increases a vehicle's resale value, making PDR an appealing option.

How is PDR Performed?

Technicians utilize specialized tools to manipulate the metal back to its original form from behind the dent. Accessing the panel may involve removing trim pieces or inner panels and lights.

During the repair, the metal surrounding the dent is meticulously massaged back into place, gradually minimizing the dent until it seamlessly blends with the paint’s texture.

Most repairs can be completed within one to three hours.

Cost of PDR

Pricing varies based on the location and complexity of the repair, typically ranging from $120 for a single dent, with costs increasing for multiple dents across different body panels. In contrast, traditional repair methods can run several hundred dollars per dent when factoring in repainting.

Finding a PDR Technician

As with any service, quality and experience levels can vary significantly. It’s wise to consult with reputable dealerships for recommendations on skilled PDR technicians in your area, and don’t hesitate to ask for references to ensure you receive the quality of work you expect.