A door ding, hailstone damage, or a shopping cart scrape can usually be fixed two ways: paintless dent repair (PDR) or traditional body work.
How PDR Works
PDR uses specialized rods to push dents out from the back side of the panel. Original paint is preserved. Works when paint is intact, metal isn’t stretched, technician can access rear of panel, damage is on a flat area.
How Traditional Body Work Differs
Fill, sand, prime, paint, and clear coat. Slower and more expensive — but works on creased dents, damage with broken paint, body lines, larger areas, and panels with no rear access.
Cost Comparison
- PDR small ding: $75–$200
- PDR larger dent: $150–$500
- PDR hail damage: $500–$2,500 full vehicle
- Traditional single panel: $400–$1,500
- Traditional with blend: add $200–$600
PDR is dramatically cheaper when it’s possible — typically half the cost of traditional repair.
How to Tell Which You Need
Stop by any reputable shop for a no-obligation assessment. Stop by Accent Collision in Canoga Park for an assessment of which approach is right for your damage.