Paintless dent repair (PDR) is a convenient technique for removing minor dents from aluminum and steel automotive panels without the need to use bonding agents and automotive paint. It is relatively simple, quick, and inexpensive, all of which make it very popular with auto body shop customers. However, not all dents are good candidates for this type of repair. Read on to learn when paintless dent repair is a viable option.

When Is Paintless Dent Repair Appropriate?

1. Flexibility of Paint

In most cases, if the paint has been chipped, torn, or scraped, you should probably consider traditional dent removal instead of paintless dent repair. Other considerations include the thickness of the metal and the intensity of the impact causing the dent. However, if the paint is in good condition and is flexible enough to "snap" back into shape once the dent has been pulled, your vehicle should be a good candidate.

2. Depth of the Dent

Wide, shallow dents are usually more responsive than deep, narrow ones. In fact, the deeper the dent, the more difficult it is to remove without damaging the paint. One example that is ideal for paintless dent repair is hail damage, as the dents are fairly shallow and neither the paint nor the metal has been stretched out of shape.

3. Pathway to the Dent

Most dings can be repaired using PDR as long as the technician has a "pathway to the dent." In other words, the team has to get behind the dent and massage it back into shape. To do this, they often must remove an exterior or interior panel to gain access. If this is not possible and the dent does not respond to external methods—such as dent-pulling suction cups—you may need to use traditional dent removal techniques.

To find out if your vehicle is a good candidate for paintless dent repair, contact Airport Paint & Body, an experienced auto body shop in Wilder, KY. They are family-owned and -operated and have been serving the region for more than 10 years. They also have locations in Erlanger and Hebron, KY, and Batavia, OH. Visit their website to view location details or call (859) 441-5000 to speak to a friendly, knowledgeable auto body professional.