FAQ
QUESTIONS ABOUT PAINTLESS DENT REPAIR?
In the case of most minor dents, the restoration process will completely remove them. The deeper the dent, the more difficult it is to repair. However, once we're finished with even major dent removals, most people are amazed at the results. Before any work is started, we will explain in detail what we expect the results will be.
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR), is a repair process that involves the removal of hail dents and other types of surface damage from a vehicle.
It involves using specialized tools and techniques to apply pressure to the underside of the panel to remove surface imperfections. Damage may also be repaired by using a glue tab on the exterior of the car and pulling the dents from the topside with specialized tools.
Generally, PDR shops have a team of dedicated staff that are specialized in the PDR process. There isn’t an industry standard on certifications at the moment. Ideally, experienced staff at reputable shops are the best to trust your vehicle care to. We have over 10 years of experience in this field.
Yes and No. Yes, you do need to get the inspection at their preferred shop but ONLY the inspection is required. Once you have the estimate in hand you are free to choose any shop for the actual repairs.
The insurance industry standard practice is to place a “prior damage restriction” on your vehicle. This is important because it could lead to future claims being denied because the previous damage was not fixed.
Generally, most dent and dings can be repaired with PDR. Some just require more effort than others. Deeper dents can be problematic but we have great success with working on those. We’re more than happy to take a look at your car. Have a look at our Appointments page and sign up for a Free Estimate.
Below are general guidelines for when the PDR dent repair service may not be a viable auto hail repair solution.
- If the body panel has previous repairs where body fillers like Bondo were used – Bondo will crack when manipulated by PDR dent repair techniques.
- Severely cracked paint – the dent can possibly be repaired but it may still require painting
- Heavily oxidized and non-shiny paint – recommend refinishing using conventional methods
- Plastic bumpers – PDR dent repair only works on thin gauged metal
- Heavy gauge metal bumpers – likely too thick replacement is recommended
- Chrome moldings – too thin and replacement is recommended
- Plastic spoilers or cowl panels – replacement is recommended
No. A hail repair claim will not cause your insurance rates to increase. Hail damage is covered under comprehensive auto insurance and it is considered an “Act of God.” This means that it is something that you had no control over and you are not held responsible for the hail damage to your vehicle.
We will waive your deductible up to $500.00 with an approved estimate of $5,000.00 or more.
No. You can take your vehicle to any repair shop that you choose. Insurance companies can no longer force or “steer” you to one shop or the another. It is your choice to make, however, make sure that you do your due diligence when shopping around for repair shops.
You will have to check your insurance policy and make sure you have the right to choose your repair shop.