Are there dents or dings in your vehicle? Have you wanted to get them fixed but feel like auto body repairs are cost prohibitive or too time consuming? Good news: Paintless dent repair (PDR) may be an option for you, and the process is quick, convenient, and best of all, affordable.
At Minnetonka Collision, we know extensive auto body repairs aren’t in everyone’s budget, nor are they always feasible for vehicle owners with hectic schedules. Below, we explain what PDR is, how the process works, and what types of damage it’s designed to repair.
What Is Paintless Dent Repair?
Paintless dent repair is a dent removal technique designed to restore vehicle paneling and paint to their original factory condition both quickly and affordably. The procedure involves pushing out the dented paneling from the inside of the damaged area, which preserves the paint job and effectively eliminates the dent. Unlike the traditional dent removal process, no painting, sanding, or body fillers are necessary to effectively complete this procedure.
How Does Paintless Dent Repair Work?
At Minnetonka Collision, our PDR process is relatively simple, but it does require advanced skill and precision. First, we determine the best way to access the dent. We may need to remove interior door paneling or trim or access the dent through the window, depending on where the damage exists.
Next, we position specialized tools and PDR lighting behind the damaged area, which we use to gently push the dent outward front the inside of the affected panel. We also position and hold tools on the outside of the dent to prevent the panel from moving too far outward during the dent removal process. After we successfully restore the panel to its factory shape, we gently buff the previously damaged area to blend that paint with the surrounding color.
In most cases, the PDR process requires only a few minutes, which makes it incredibly convenient for vehicle owners with busy schedules. However, if your vehicle has hail damage, performing paintless dent repair on each affected area generally requires a more substantial time commitment.
What Kind of Damage Can Paintless Dent Repair Fix?
PDR is designed to fix dents and dings that still have fully intact paint. It’s a viable option for dents both large and small; however, it’s more of a quick, cosmetic fix, not a complete restoration. The previously dented metal will inevitably lose some degree of strength, which will make it more susceptible to future damage. If you’re considering PDR, it’s important to keep in mind that the procedure will not produce satisfactory results if your vehicle has:
● Damaged paint in the dented area
● Dents near the edge of body paneling
● Significantly scratched metal beneath the paint
● Denting with sharp edges
● Denting in areas that have had previous bodywork
Is Paintless Dent Removal Appropriate for Your Vehicle? Find Out at Minnetonka Collision
If your vehicle has dents or dings and you need a quick, convenient, and affordable fix, get in touch with our team at Minnetonka Collision. We’ll evaluate the damage, advise you on the best repair options for your situation, and work with your insurance company to get the job covered. To schedule a free estimate or learn more about our services, give our Plymouth, MN office a call today at 763-230-7805 or send us a message, and we’ll be in touch.