Can Auto Body Shops Fix Dents?
Everything You Need to Know About Professional Dent Repair
No vehicle owner likes seeing dents - especially on a new vehicle.
Dents can ruin more than a vehicle's appearance; they can also reduce its resale value and compromise its structural integrity.
Now, where do you get repairs?
Most drivers are unsure whether a body shop can successfully restore their vehicle's appearance, performance, and overall integrity.
In this guide, we break down what auto body shops can fix dents, the types of dents they fix, and how to know what is best for your situation.
Fasten your seat belt - this one is a smooth ride.
The Short Answer: Yes
While auto body shops can fix dents, the quality of the repair also depends on which shop is doing the fixing. Many certified shops, like Regal Repair, are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and training for standard dent repair.
After thoroughly inspecting the area of the dent, a certified repair shop will recommend a traditional dent repair approach in accordance with your vehicle's specific condition.
Whether a minor or major dent, a certified repair shop can make it disappear as if it never happened.
Types of Dents Auto Body Shops Can Fix
Minor Dents and Dings
Minor dents include an impact of a round object, like a football, with your vehicle. It can also be tiny, sharp dents from pointed objects like car doors, which is also an example of a small dent.
Creased Dents
These types of dents are bigger than minor dents - often caused by objects dragging across the surface of your vehicle, which can damage the metal.
Collision Damage Dents
These types of dents are large dents on a vehicle, sustained from collision impact. Often hapless and requires a complex dent repair approach.
Hail Damage
Hail Damage is a unique dent caused by hailstones or some road debris scattering over the surface of a car.
Dent Repair Methods Used by Auto Body Shops
Based on the type and severity of a dent, there are two renowned methods. Let's break it down.
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)
Paintless Dent Repair is the easiest and most technical dent removal method. It is achievable through using special tools to gently massage the metal back to its original shape.
This method is perfect for minor, shallow dents where paint is not cracked or scratched.
Traditional Dent Repair (TDR)
TDR is another technical method for dents removal. But this time, it is preferable when the damaged paint or metal is scratched. Including the dent is larger.
The affected area will be sanded. Afterwards, it will be filled and primed before repainting.
When to Choose an Auto Body Shop Over DIY or PDR-Only Services
- If the dent is severe, creased, or involves paint damage.
- If car sensors, doors, or body panels are misaligned (collision damage cases).
- When you want the perfect, quality color matching and paint finishes for your vehicle, certified repair shops use advanced tools and machines.
Note: DIY kits can help for tiny dings - but for lasting, high-quality, and impeccable results, go for the pros.
How Much Does Dent Repair Cost?
Minor Dent Repair
$50 - $250
Small dings and shallow dents with no paint damage
Larger Dent Repair
$300 - $1,000+
Depending on size, severity, and car make and model
Dent repair cost is determined by paint, parts, replacement, or labor time.
How to Prevent Future Dents
Park away from clustered or crowded areas.
Avoid tight parking spaces.
Avoid parking under a tree.
Park in a covered space during storms.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can auto body shops fix all types of dents?
If the auto body shop, like Regal Repair, is certified, it can repair a wide range of dents. Whether it's minor dings, creased dents, collision damage, or hail damage, a body shop uses specialized methods like PDR and traditional repair.
2. How much does it cost to get a dent fixed?
A little damage usually costs between $50 and $250 to fix, while a bigger or worse dent can cost anywhere from $300 to more than $1,000, depending on how bad it is, how big it is, and the details of your car.
3. When should I choose a professional auto body shop over DIY dent repair?
If you have deep dents, creased dents, paint damage, misaligned panels, or need to match colors exactly, it's preferable to go to a licensed auto body shop instead of trying to fix them yourself.
Get Professional Dent Repair Today
Can an auto body shop fix dents? Yes, an auto body shop can fix a dent perfectly through industry-standard procedures.
Do you have a dent in your vehicle? Regal Repair is a certified auto body shop specializing in fixing dents with precision.
Let Us Help You Fix Your Dent