How Long Does Paintless Dent Repair Take?

May 31, 2025

You’re staring at that new dent in your car, wondering how long you’ll be without your vehicle if you get it fixed. Traditional body shop repairs can leave you carless for several days or weeks, but paintless dent repair is a surprisingly fast alternative. At Lord of the Dings, we understand you need your car back quickly and looking great. Let’s break down exactly how long your dent repair will take so you can confidently plan your schedule.

The Factors That Determine Your Timeline

Understanding what affects repair time helps you plan better and know what to expect. Several key factors influence how long your repair will take.

Dent Location and Access

Dents on door panels that are easily accessible might take an hour, while dents in complex areas like hood supports or tight corners require more time. Some repairs require panel removal for proper access, which adds to the timeline but ensures quality results.

Damage Severity

Deep dents or creases take longer to repair than shallow ones. Sharp dents require careful, gradual pressure to prevent paint damage. Soft, round dents often respond more quickly to repair techniques, even if they cover a larger area.

Number of Dents

A single dent repair moves quickly, but multiple dents, especially from hail damage, require individual attention. Each dent needs proper lighting, positioning, and technique for perfect results. While PDR is still faster than traditional body work for multiple dents, expect the timeline to increase based on the number of repairs needed.

Timeframes for Common Repairs

When customers ask, “How long does PDR take?” they want specific answers. Here’s what you can typically expect:

Quick Fixes (1-2 Hours)

Simple door dings and minor dents often take 1-2 hours to repair. These repairs are perfect for same-day service, allowing you to drop off your car during lunch and pick it up after work. Alternatively, a technician can come to you. The process is swift because these dents usually have good access points and respond well to PDR techniques.

Moderate Damage (2-4 Hours)

Multiple dents or damage along body lines typically require 2-4 hours. This includes most shopping cart damage or minor collision dents. We take extra time to do these repairs to ensure body lines remain crisp and perfect.

Extensive Repairs (1-3 Days)

For more severe damage like hail repair or multiple panel dents, expect 1-3 days. While this might seem long, remember that traditional body shop repairs for similar damage often take weeks.

 

Why Expert PDR Is Faster

Professional PDR technicians work efficiently because they’ve mastered the specialized tools and techniques required for perfect repairs. At Lord of the Dings, our experience means we can:

  • Accurately assess repair time during your initial consultation
  • Work efficiently without compromising quality
  • Identify the best repair approach
  • Handle unexpected challenges without delays

 

Get Back on the Road Fast

Being without your car affects your work, family time, and daily commitments. That’s why we prioritize efficient repairs that work around your schedule. Our same-day appointments and mobile service options mean you won’t have to rearrange your life for a car repair. Don’t let that dent stress you out another day. Book your appointment now for a free estimate and a precise repair timeline.