1. Assessment:
* Inspection: A PDR technician carefully examines the dent to determine its severity, location, and accessibility. They'll also check for any paint damage that might require additional work.
* Feasibility: Not all dents are suitable for PDR. Dents with sharp creases, large tears, or significant paint damage may require traditional bodywork.
2. Access:
* Opening Panels: The technician may need to remove interior panels, trim, or even open doors to gain access to the dent from the back side.
* Lighting: Special lights are used to illuminate the dent from various angles, helping the technician see the contours and understand its shape.
3. Tools and Techniques:
* Specialized Tools: PDR technicians use various tools, including:
* Rods: These are long, slender rods with different tips and shapes used to apply pressure and manipulate the dent from the back side.
* Gluing Tools: Small suction cups or glue tabs are used to pull the dent out from the outside if the access is limited.
* Lighting Tools: Special lights help illuminate the dent and allow the technician to see their progress.
* Technique: The technician applies pressure and manipulates the dent using the tools, working gradually to push the metal back to its original shape.
* Rods: The technician pushes, pulls, and rotates the rods behind the dent, applying controlled pressure to reshape the metal.
* Gluing Tools: A small suction cup or glue tab is attached to the dent's exterior, and then pulled gently with a special tool to draw the dent out.
* Hammering: In some cases, a specialized hammer may be used to gently tap the dent from the back, but this is less common than rod work.
4. Refinement and Finishing:
* Final Touches: The technician meticulously refines the dent, ensuring it's as smooth and flush with the surrounding body panel as possible.
* Cleaning: The area is cleaned to remove any residue from the tools or glue.
* Inspection: The technician thoroughly inspects the repaired area, checking for any remaining imperfections or paint damage.
Benefits of PDR:
* Cost-effective: It's typically cheaper than traditional bodywork and repainting.
* Faster Repair Time: PDR repairs often take less time than conventional methods.
* Preserves Original Paint: No paint is removed or applied, preserving the vehicle's original finish.
* Minimal Damage: PDR avoids the need for sanding, filling, and painting, which can potentially weaken the vehicle's body structure.
Important Considerations:
* Skill and Experience: PDR requires specialized training and a skilled technician to achieve optimal results.
* Not Suitable for All Dents: PDR is not always the best solution for all dents, especially those with severe damage.
* Find a Reputable Technician: It's essential to find a reputable and experienced PDR technician who can provide high-quality repairs.