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Dings and dents happen and can be an eyesore for car owners. Whether it’s a rogue shopping cart in a parking lot or a surprise hailstorm, these unwanted marks can ruin your car’s appearance and potentially affect its resale value. Everyone understands the frustration that comes with auto damage. In this article, Cheap Insurance breaks down the details of paintless dent repair (PDR) and explores how your auto insurance policy can help.

Key takeaways:

• Car insurance may cover PDR, depending on your policy and the cause of the damage.
• Consider the deductible versus the repair cost before filing a claim.
• PDR repairs can indirectly save money by preserving the resale value of the car.
• Opt for certified and experienced PDR technicians.
• PDR is fast, efficient and environmentally friendly compared to traditional repairs.

What is paintless dent removal?

Paintless dent repair (PDR) is a technique for restoring minor dents to a car’s body panels without disturbing the original paint job. Qualified technicians have two main approaches.

Metal massage. For some dents, technicians use specialized tools to access the back of the dent. By applying light pressure and leveraging their expertise, they can massage the metal back to its original shape.

Glue the tabs. For other dents, especially those on flatter surfaces, technicians use a unique method. They apply a small amount of specialized glue to a specially designed “glue pull tab”. The tab is then carefully positioned over the bump. Once the glue has hardened, a pulling device, often a slide hammer or pull bar, is attached to the tab. With controlled traction, the technician carefully manipulates the dent back into place.

Answer the main question

Dings and dents on the car are a drag, but the good news is that paintless dent repair (PDR) offers a quick and often affordable way to restore your car to its smooth appearance. But the following question remains.

Does car insurance cover paintless dent repair (PDR)?

The answer, like most questions about insurance, is that it depends. But in general, yes, car insurance can cover PDR.

Insurance companies often prefer PDR because it is a cost-effective repair method compared to traditional body shop techniques. This results in reduced repair costs, which can benefit you in the long run.

However, coverage may vary depending on your specific policy. This is where things get a little more nuanced.

Collision or full coverage. If you only have liability insurance, the PDR will not be covered. You’ll need collision or comprehensive coverage for PDR to be a potential option.

Cause of damage. Insurance companies are more likely to cover PDR for damage caused by events covered under your policy, such as hailstorms or vandalism. Impacts due to minor collisions or unknown causes may require a closer look at your policy details.

When will insurance pay PDR? (Damage caused by hail and other causes)

Let’s take a closer look at the specific situations in which insurance is more likely to cover PDR costs:

Hail damage. Hailstorms are often responsible for car dents, and PDR is often the preferred repair method by insurance companies in these cases. It is a faster and more cost-effective way to repair multiple dents compared to traditional bodywork.

Other events covered. Depending on your policy, PDR may also be covered for dents caused by vandalism or other events described in the comprehensive coverage section of your policy.

Remember, it is always best to consult your auto insurance company and understand the specific details of your policy before assuming coverage for PDR. They can advise you on the best course of action depending on your situation.

Cost Considerations

Now that we know that car insurance can potentially cover PDR, let’s explore the financial side of things.

Should you file an insurance claim for PDR? (Considering the franchise)

Filing a car insurance claim for PDR is not always a simple decision. Here’s why.

Remember, you will be responsible for paying your deductible before your insurance pays for repairs related to a claim. So, if the cost to repair the PDR is less than your deductible, filing a claim might not make financial sense.

Filing frequent claims, even for minor repairs, can potentially increase the price of car insurance. Weigh the cost of PDR repair against the potential increase in your insurance.

Here’s a tip. Contact a reputable PDR technician and get a quote for the repair. If the estimate is lower than your deductible, you may be better off paying out of pocket to avoid a possible premium increase.

Can PDR repairs save you money on insurance?

While filing a claim for a minor PDR isn’t always the best financial solution, here’s an interesting flipside.

Maintain the value of your car. Dents can affect the resale value of your car. Keeping your car dent-free with PDR can potentially net you a higher price when you sell it. This could indirectly save you money compared to the cost of repairs at the time of sale.

Further information

Now that you have a better understanding of insurance coverage and costs related to PDR, here is some additional information to help you make an informed decision.

Advantages of paintless dent removal

Fast and effective. PDR repairs are typically much quicker than traditional body shop methods, often taking only a few hours.

Preserves original finish. PDR does not involve sanding, repainting or body filler. This means your car retains its original paint, which can be crucial to resale value.

Ecological. PDR is an eco-friendly repair option because it does not involve harsh chemicals or solvents used in traditional bodywork.

Find a reputable PDR technician

Finding a qualified PDR technician is essential to achieving optimal results. Here are a few tips.

Look for certification. Reputable PDR technicians often have certifications from organizations such as the National Dent Repair Association (NDRA).

Experience counts. Ask about the technician’s experience, especially with dents similar to yours.

Get quotes and reviews. Compare quotes from different PDR technicians and read online reviews to gauge customer experience.

By considering these factors, you can find a qualified technician to restore your car’s smooth appearance with confidence.

Here is a brief summary to help you make the right choice

Check your insurance policy. Understand the details of your coverage for PDR, including collision or comprehensive requirements to cover this claim.

Consider the cost. Weigh the cost of repairing the PDR against your deductible and the potential increase in your car insurance premium, to file a claim.

Benefits of PDR. Consider the benefits of PDR such as speed of repair, paint preservation and environmental friendliness.

Find a qualified technician. Look for certifications, experience, and positive customer reviews.

By following these tips, you can keep your car looking its best, while saving money on repairs and your car insurance costs.

This story was produced by CheapInsurance.com and edited and distributed by Stacker Media.