How to Repair a Dented Car?
3 Answers
If the original car paint is not damaged, paintless dent repair (PDR) technology can be used for repair without repainting. If the dent area is relatively large, it is recommended that the owner go to a 4S shop for repair to avoid causing secondary damage to the car. If the dented area on the car surface is relatively small, hot water can be used for repair.
My car door got a small dent from a neighbor's kid kicking it. I poured hot water to soften the plastic or metal, then used a toilet plunger to gently pull and slowly restore it. This method works for small dents but requires multiple attempts—be gentle to avoid scratching the paint. Simple tools: a household kettle and plunger are enough, or you can buy specialized tools online for just a few bucks. If the dent is too deep or in a tricky spot, the success rate is low—don’t force it to avoid making it worse. After repair, wash and wax the car to protect the paint. DIY saves money, especially when dealing with minor damage on a new car promptly to prevent long-term water accumulation leading to rust or corrosion. A car is a partner—careful maintenance prevents big issues.
I work at an auto repair shop and recommend using paintless dent repair (PDR) technology for small dents, which can smooth out the metal without repainting to preserve the original color. Technicians use specialized hooks to slowly push the dent out from the inside. The process is quick, usually taking one to two hours and costing a few hundred dollars. For large dents, panel beating and repainting are necessary to prevent oxidation and rust, with costs running into the thousands. The key is to assess the size of the dent: shallow dents or those on new car parts are suitable for PDR to save time and money, while deep dents or those with damaged paint require full repairs to ensure safety and avoid potential hazards. It's best to visit the repair shop directly for an inspection—they have professional tools to prevent secondary damage, so don’t waste money trying to fix it yourself.
