There are many PDR Standards to be adhered to when performing quality Paint-less Dent Repair
PDR Standard Markups:
(See detailed article on PDR Standards by clicking here)
(Common practice in the PDR Industry is to up-charge between 25-75% on the criteria listed below)
Aluminum / HSS / UHS / Boron / Composite
Body Line
Contour
Deep or Pinched Damage
Double Panel
Glue Pull – Sail Panels, Rails, Quarter Panels, Top of Doors and other restricted access areas require glue Pulling.
Laminated Glass
Restricted Access
Oversized Dents
(There are many more, but these are the most commonly used)
Drill / No Drill Policy
Drilling has been a common practice since the origin of PDR. The term drilling describes the process of actually using a drill and drill bit to create an access hole to slide a PDR tool in, boring out an existing hole to accommodate a larger diameter tool, or using a hammer punch to create a hole.
Most insurance companies, body shops, rental car fleets and others have banned this practice completely and rightfully so. With todays technology little changes in structure could alter crumple zones, airbag timing or other variables that may endanger the safety of drivers or passengers. Drilling could also lead to corrosion issues.
Unfortunately, many dealerships, auction houses and PDR Technicians have not embraced the no-drill policies.
Proper R&I Methods:
Many interior panels, molding, glass or insulator pads must be removed to allow the technician access to the backside of the dent according to OEM Recommendations. These should be removed and re-installed (replaced if damaged) leaving no sign of work being performed.
Many common R&I operations include:
Hood Assembly
Hood Insulator Pad
Headliner
Deck-lid Assembly
Decklid Insulator Pad
Interior Trim
Exterior Trim
Headlamps
Tail Lamps
Moldings
Door Interior Panels
Glass
Bumper Covers (To remove Tail Lamps)
Rear Hatch / Gate
Luggage Racks
Sunroof Frame
Fender Liners
Bug Shield
Basically anything that is blocking or preventing a quality PDR repair should be removed to allow for the best quality. This should be determined by the technician performing the repair as they are the expert.
R&R common items:
Clear Bra
Pin Stripe
Appliques
Corrosion Protection needs to be applied to any panel following PDR which may affect the factory e-coat.
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