How paintless dent repair works
A technician uses metal rods and specialty lights to push the dent out from behind the panel, little by little, until the surface is level again. No sanding, filler or paint.
When PDR works and when it doesn't
- Works: round dents with intact paint on accessible panels
- Maybe: dents on body lines or near edges
- No: cracked or chipped paint, sharp creases, stretched metal
What to expect from a hail claim
Your insurer or the shop will map and count the dents on each panel. Severe hail can also mean replacing a roof panel, glass or trim.
Keep the factory finish when you can
The factory paint is usually more durable than any refinish, and keeping it can help resale value. That's the main reason to prefer PDR when it's possible.
Photograph hail damage in daylight from an angle and under a fluorescent light. Dents are much easier to see that way.
General information for Houston-area drivers, not legal, tax or financial advice. Program terms, laws and fees change; confirm current details with our team or the official source.
