What is PDR
PDR also known as Paintless Dent Removal, is a collection of techniques for removing minor dents and dings from a car body.
Whilst PDR can repair a large amount of damage, if there is paint damage PDR may be unsuitable. More generally, the shallower the dent the greater the chance that PDR may work. Also extremely sharp dents and creases may not be suitable for PDR.
All kinds of dents can be fixed on many different types of metal including steel and aluminium. Door Dings are the most common kind of damage that can be repaired with this technique. However, there must access to the back of the panel. Any structure inherent in the car may stop access to the rear of the panel.
How does PDR Work
Paintless Dent Repair involves the use of a series of different sized and length metal rods with varying degrees of bends and tip shapes to access the inside/back side of automobile body panels and applying pressure on the back side of the dented area, pushing the dent out.
Mallets can also be used to release stress or pressure waves created from an accident. Glue Pulling is a another method used for repairing dents and dings. As the name implies, plastic tabs are glued to the outer surface of your vehicles damaged area. A pulling tool is connected to these tabs which can remove or soften the affected area and can result in paint being pulled off the vehicle.
Temperature is also an important element in a great repair, if the dented area is too cool during the repair process, hairline cracks in the paints clear coat can compromise the paint to metal moister barrier which can lead to corrosion issues. Climate controlled environments are the best way to prevent paint issues.
What are the limits of Paintless Dent Repair?
PDR cannot be used in any of the following situations:
- Damage at the edge of the door
- Any panel with a structure behind
- Plastic bumpers
- Second skinned panels
This isn’t a problem: We also fix scratches and dents traditionally