PDR vs Traditional Dent Repair

What is paintless dent repair (PDR)?

Paintless dent repair (PDR) is a technique where specialist tools are used to gently massage and push a dent out from behind the panel, without touching or breaking the existing paint surface. Because no filler or repainting is involved, it's faster and typically cheaper, and the result preserves your car's original factory finish.

What is traditional dent repair?

Traditional dent repair involves pulling or hammering the dent out, smoothing the surface with body filler, and then repainting the panel. This is the older method and is still required for dents that can't be accessed from behind, or where the paint has been cracked or damaged.

How do they compare?

When is PDR the right choice?

• The paint is intact (no chips, cracks or scratches in the dented area)
• The dent is a smooth, rounded shape (not a sharp crease)
• The panel can be accessed from behind
• The dent isn't too large

Hail damage and car park dings are often ideal candidates for PDR.

When is traditional repair needed?

• The paint has been cracked, chipped or scratched
• The dent is too sharp or complex for PDR
• The panel can't be accessed from behind
• Body filler is needed to achieve a smooth surface

Which is better overall?

Neither method is universally "better". The right choice depends on the specific damage. A good panel beater will assess your vehicle and recommend the most appropriate approach. In many cases, PDR is sufficient and preferable; in others, traditional repair is the only option that delivers a lasting result.