FAQs

What is paintless dent repair (PDR), and why would you choose it for your car? The following questions are some of those we encounter most frequently at Pristine Dent Repair. If you don’t find the answer to your question on our list of FAQs, get in touch with us anytime.

What is PDR?

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is a gentle and noninvasive way of repairing shallow dents and dings in your car’s panels. It’s a mechanical method that gently smooths out the dent to make the panel’s surface even again.

How does PDR work?

PDR works by either pushing out the dent from the panel’s underside or pulling it out from the front. PDR professionals use special tools to push, lift, or pull out the dent. The technician will keep maneuvering the dent until the panel is as close as possible to its original condition.

Will PDR damage paint?

No, PDR will not damage paint. If the dent isn’t too large or deep, factory paints are flexible enough to withstand PDR. In fact, paintless dent removal is the only dent repair method that doesn’t damage factory paint.

What makes PDR better than other dent repair methods?

PDR is faster, more efficient, more affordable, and more eco-friendly than other dent repair methods. Traditional dent repair usually means replacing a panel or using fillers and repainting. This harms factory paint and may reduce your car’s value. In contrast, PDR doesn’t harm factory paint and, when done successfully, makes the car look as if the dent was never there.

Is PDR more economical than conventional dent repair?

Yes, PDR is an economical alternative to conventional dent repair. PDR usually costs several times less than traditional body shop dent repair. It’s also a lot quicker since it doesn’t involve any grinding or priming.

What types of dents are a good fit for PDR?

Paintless dent removal can work on different types of dents, including round dents (such as hailstorm damage), linear dents, collision dents, and even edge dents. The rule of thumb is, if the dent isn’t too large or complex and the factory paint is intact, PDR may be an option.

When would dents need a repair method other than PDR?

Dents may need a different repair method than PDR if the dent causes cracking, chipping, or other damage to the paint. Additionally, deeply warped or creased metal may call for panel replacement rather than PDR. Paintless dent repair can also be tricky in areas where the panel’s underside is inaccessible.

How long does PDR take?

The amount of time PDR takes depends on the dent’s size and location. A technician may remove small, easily accessible dents with PDR in about an hour, while widespread hail damage may require several days of work. Moreover, hood dings are usually easier to fix than dents on the vehicle’s roof or doors. If necessary, we may remove internal panels to work on a dent.

How much does PDR cost?

On average, a single small dent like a door ding may cost $150 to $200 to fix with PDR. PDR for extensive hail damage may cost thousands of dollars. Since each location needs individual work, every dent adds to the cost of PDR.

Will my car insurance pay for PDR?

Your insurance may cover PDR depending on your policy. A full-coverage policy often includes hail damage, but you’ll need to pay a deductible.

Do dents come back after PDR?

No; quality PDR prevents dents from coming back. Repaired areas are stable and won’t lose their shape.

Can PDR help me get a better deal when selling my car?

Yes, PDR can help you sell your car for more money. Unsightly dents may put a buyer off even if your car is overall in good condition. Effective PDR makes a car a lot more attractive to buyers.

Do you have questions about PDR beyond the FAQs above? Want to know how our services at Pristine Dent Repair can help you restore your vehicle? Contact us now for a free estimate.