The cost to repair a car dent can range from $50 to $1,500 or more. The final price depends heavily on the repair method, the dent's size, location, and depth, and the vehicle's paint condition. Minor dings repaired with Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) are the most affordable, while large, complex dents on body lines or requiring traditional bodywork and repainting are the most expensive.
The most significant cost factor is the chosen repair technique. PDR is a specialized process where technicians use tools to massage the dent out from behind the panel without affecting the original factory paint. It's only an option if the paint is intact. Traditional repair involves using body filler, sanding, and repainting the entire panel to ensure a color match, which drastically increases the cost.
Here’s a breakdown of typical cost ranges based on dent type and repair method:
| Dent Type / Repair Method | Typical Cost Range | Key Considerations |
|---|
| Small Ding (PDR) | $50 - $125 | Credit-card size; accessible location; paint undamaged. |
| Medium Dent (PDR) | $150 - $350 | Door-sized; may be on a harder-to-reach panel. |
| Large/Creased Dent (PDR) | $400 - $800 | Complex shape on a body line; requires advanced skill. |
| Traditional Repair (Small) | $300 - $800 | Paint is chipped; requires filler, sanding, blending. |
| Traditional Repair (Large) | $800 - $1,500+ | Major damage on multiple panels; extensive labor and materials. |
Other variables include the vehicle's make and model, as some materials like aluminum or high-strength steel are harder to work with, and labor rates which vary by geographic region. For a precise estimate, it's always best to get quotes from at least two or three reputable local body shops. They can assess whether PDR is viable or if traditional methods are necessary.
