Frequently Asked Questions
What is Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)?
PDR is a type of repair method for fixing automotive dents without the need to paint the damaged panel. PDR can be accomplished when trained technicians gain access from behind the panel and massage the dent back to its original shape, with using specially designed tools. Another method of PDR is called Glue Pulling. Glue Pulling is great when access from behind the panel cannot be achieved. It is done by applying hot glue on a specially designed tab and then setting it on the dent. Once cooled, a slide hammer is connected to the tab and hammers the dent out. This is a difficult talent to acquire and takes a good amount of knowledge in order to remove dents.
What are the advantages of PDR?
PDR is not only affordable but it is also faster and more convenient than conventional repair. When you choose PDR, there is absolutely no filler, sanding, or painting done to your vehicle. This means there are no chance for sand scratches or overspray issues. By removing your vehicles dents prior to selling or trading, the vehicle will look more appealing and bring more value.
What is the conventional method or way or fixing dents?
The conventional way of repairing a dent is to fill the dent with body filler. When the filler cures or hardens, a technician will sand it down smoothly. Primer will then be sprayed and sanded to get the minor imperfections out. The technician will mix paint to match the original paint job as closely as possible. Finally, the repaired panel(s) is painted with possibly having to blend (paint) additional panels to get the best color matching.
How long does PDR take?
Depending on the damage, PDR can be extremely efficient. Normal door dings caused from shopping carts, sports balls, or random objects can be repaired in a timely manner, usually less than an hour. On hail damaged vehicles, the amount of damaged and the size of dents, reflect the repair time. Some hail repairs can be a few hours and others may take up to 48 hours. Insurance companies of all types will most likely recommend PDR as the repair method since it saves the insurance companies money. Conventional repairs take longer since they may have to order parts, disassemble panels, prep, and paint.
What type of dents can be fixed with PDR?
- Most minor door dings- shopping carts, sports balls, etc
- Hailstorm damage
- Horizontal and vertical creases
- Minor collision damage
Dents that have deep scratches or chipped paint are often referred to be repaired the conventional method instead of PDR. Another option is to perform PDR and touch up the damaged paint. If we believe touching up the paint isn't going to meet our standards, we may only recommend the conventional method because we care about our reputation.
Will you repair the hail damage by PDR or conventionally?
PDR is usually always the preferred choice of repair for hail damage. It is cost efficient and saves the customer time. If PDR is done right, there should be no signs of any repairs ever being made to your vehicle and it should be like the hail storm never happened. Just like anything else, there is a difference from PDR technicians, regarding speed, professionalism, and most importantly, quality. If the damage is too excessive for PDR, the conventional way is then recommended for a proper repair.
Can large dents be repaired?
The depth and location are major factors on depending if a large dent can be repaired back to 100%. Large, shallow dents are easier than small deep dents to repair. Larger dents in aluminum panels are difficult to repair and may need to be fixed conventionally. During inspection, we will explain what the finish job could look like with a 75% or better outcome. If the damage cannot be fixed to a reasonable finish, Bailey’s PDR will do what is called, Push to Paint. Push to Paint is described in the question below.
What happens if there is cracked paint in or around the dent?
Cracked paint can eventually lead to rust in the future. When there is cracked paint on a hail damaged vehicle, it is recommended to repaint the entire panel after the damage has been repaired using PDR or the conventional method.
Will the shop replace broken glass and moldings?
Some body shops will replace glass and moldings, while other shops will have these services contracted out or will not provide these services at all. It’s less of a hassle if the shop does everything right there, so you don’t have to run all around town. Bailey's can replace all damaged parts and glass.
What is Push to Paint?
A panel that is severely damaged, that may or may not have cracked paint, can be pushed to paint. Push to paint applies to only dents that cannot be 100% taken out using PDR. If the dent has damaged paint, we can still work the majority of the dent out and complete the job by painting the panel to prevent any rust from occurring where the paint is cracked. Push to Paint can save you money by not having to purchase a brand new panel. If your dent qualifies for this service, we will inform you before we start working.
Where do I go for PDR?
Bailey’s PDR Inc. is located at 3302 4th Ave. SW, Fargo, ND, just north of the jail. We also offer mobile services in which we will come to you. Just give us a call at (701) 730-DENT (3368) and set up an appointment to receive a free estimate. Your satisfaction is what we take pride in.