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What is Paintless Dent Repair?

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is an industry recognized repair process that involves the removal of hail dents or other types of minor dents from the exterior surface of the auto without disturbing the finish.

How Does it Work?

In most cases, this procedure involves the use of specialized tools to apply pressure to the backside of the panel to remove surface imperfections. Damage may also be repaired by bonding a "tab" or other device to the exterior of the panel and pulling the dent from the topside. By using either of these techniques, the technician is able to restore panel appearance, thus eliminating the need for refinishing the panel surface area.

This is an image the shows the process of paintless dent repair

When Can it Be Used?

The PDR process is often used to repair hail damage or other similar dents that occur when an outer panel strikes (or is struck by) an object that has not compromised the finish of the panel. Since the outer finish of the panel has not been disturbed, it eliminates steps in the refinishing process and may allow for more timely repairs.

The ability to repair vehicles using PDR requires that the technician be able to access the backside of a dent. Some repairers drill holes for access. We do not recommend PDR if drilling is necessary.

Who Performs Paintless Dent Repair?

PDR services are offered by a number of local and national companies that provide technical training and support to associated technicians. National companies may not have a local presence, but they often send "response teams" to areas where a large number of hail claims have been reported. These teams may work out of temporary locations, performing repairs until PDR services are no longer needed.

We believe it is to your benefit to have repairs completed by companies and repair facilities that have agreed to and follow the Paintless Dent Repair Agreement. If you have not selected a repairer and would like to review a listing of providers, ask your claims representative for additional information.

State Farm® Promises You

We will guarantee your satisfaction with PDR work for as long as you own your car, when:

  • You authorize repairs by a repairer we agree upon.
  • PDR is listed on your estimate.
  • We pay for those repairs.

If a problem with PDR work ever develops, additional necessary repair work will be done to your satisfaction and at no additional cost to you. Final decisions regarding any repairs to your vehicle are made by you, the vehicle owner.