How To Fix A Dent In A Car: Options And Cost You Should Know

Dents in a car, whether big or small, are an annoyance every car owner wants to avoid. They not only affect the look of your vehicle but can also lead to further damage if not addressed. If you are wondering how to fix a dent in a car, this blog covers everything from DIY dent removal to professional repair options, plus the costs to expect.

What is a Dent?

A dent is a small or large dip in your car’s body. These dents come in different shapes and depths, and they can affect the metal or plastic parts of your car's exterior. While small dents might only affect the look, deeper ones can expose the metal, which could lead to rust and more damage.

How Cars Get Dented

Cars get dented in many scenarios. Parking lot mishaps, hailstorms, fallen tree branches, or even shopping carts can cause dents. It doesn’t take much impact to leave a mark on a vehicle, especially on newer models with lighter body materials. Some dents are minor, while others can require professional dent removal to restore your car’s appearance.

Different Types of Car Dents

Here’s a breakdown of common dent types, their descriptions, causes and tips for removal:

Type of Dent	Description	Causes	Tips for Removal
Ding	Small, shallow dent, usually less than half an inch in diameter.	Shopping carts, minor door bumps	Use hot water and a plunger or a hairdryer with compressed air.
Round Dent	Typically a circular dent, often seen on hoods or roofs.	Hail, golf balls, or falling items	Try a dent puller or suction tool, or use the hot-cold technique.
Crease Dent	A dent with a distinct line or crease, more complex to repair.	Bike handlebars, sharp objects	Seek professional repair; crease dents are difficult to DIY.
Large Dent	Bigger dents with more surface area affected, can involve deeper metal damage.	Collisions, falling tree branches	Use a plunger for shallow dents; consider professional help for deep dents.
Car Collision Dent	Dents resulting from accidents, often with extensive body panel damage.	Car accidents	Best handled by professionals due to the extent of damage.
Multi-Point Dent	Multiple dents in close proximity, usually smaller in size, often across large sections.	Hail storms, heavy impact	Use a hairdryer with compressed air on small areas; for extensive damage, consult a professional.
Sharp Dent	Dent with a pointed center, often with a small diameter but deeper penetration.	Rocks or sharp objects hitting car	Use a dent puller on minor dents; for deeper ones, professional repair is recommended.

Can We Fix Car Dents?

Yes, most car dents can be fixed, and the method you choose depends on the dent’s type and size. Many small dents can be fixed using DIY methods, while others may require a visit to a professional dent repair shop.

DIY Small Dent Repair Options

If you have a minor dent and want to try how to remove dents from a car on your own, here are a few DIY methods:

1. Plastic Car Dents

For cars with plastic bumpers, dents are sometimes easier to repair. Here’s how to fix a small dent in a car with plastic:

Boiling Water Method: Pour hot water over the dent to make the plastic more flexible, then push the dent out from behind.
Suction Cup Method: Some suction cups can pull out shallow dents on plastic surfaces. This works best on round dents.

2. Metal Car Dents

Metal dents are slightly trickier to remove than plastic dents. Here’s how to fix a dent in a car with a metal surface:

Dry Ice Method: Rubbing dry ice on a dent can cause it to pop back into shape due to temperature changes.
Hair Dryer and Compressed Air: Heating the metal with a hairdryer and then spraying it with compressed air can sometimes cause the dent to contract and pop out.

3. Repair Dents with Body Filler

For larger dents, body filler is an effective solution for car dent repair:

Sand and Fill: First, sand down the dented area, then apply body filler to level it. Once dry, sand it smooth and add paint to match the original color.
Paint Touch-Up: Body filler repairs usually require paint touch-ups to blend the repair seamlessly.

4. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)

This method is commonly used for minor dents where the paint is intact:

How It Works: Special tools are used to massage and shape the dent from behind, making it unnoticeable.
Pros and Cons: Paintless dent repair is affordable and maintains the original paint. However, it’s not suitable for sharp or large dents.

5. Professional Dent Repair

If DIY isn’t your thing or if the dent is complex, professional repair options may be your best bet.

Trained Technicians: A professional car dent remover will have the tools and expertise needed for a flawless repair.
Cost: Professional dent repairs can vary from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the dent’s size and location. Complex dents require more labor and, therefore, higher costs.

6. Dent Repair Shop

Some dents require professional expertise that is only available at a reputable dent repair shop.

Comprehensive Solutions: These shops can handle all types of dents, from minor to severe, and offer full restoration services, including repainting and finishing.
Additional Services: Besides dent removal, they often provide denting and painting services, ensuring the car looks as good as new.

Fixigo’s Recommendations

Fixigo recommends assessing the severity of the dent and choosing a method that suits your budget and needs. For small, simple dents, DIY methods can save you money. However, larger or sharper dents might need a professional touch.

Conclusion

Dents can be annoying, but they are fixable. From DIY fixes like boiling water and suction cup methods to professional paintless dent repairs, there are solutions for every type of dent. Whether you choose to do it yourself or visit a dent repair shop, make sure to evaluate the dent properly before proceeding. With these tips and Fixigo’s expert advice, you can restore your car to its dent-free glory without breaking the bank!