Panel Beating vs Paintless Dent Removal (PDR): Which Option Actually Saves You Money?

When a dent shows up on your vehicle—whether from a rogue trolley, a tight parking spot, or a sudden hailstorm—the big question is:

👉 “Should I go to a panel beater or use paintless dent repair?”

Most car owners immediately think of a traditional body shop. But there's a smarter, faster, and often much cheaper alternative: Paintless Dent Removal (PDR).

This guide will break down the real-world differences between PDR and panel beating, especially when it comes to cost, convenience, and preserving your car’s value.

What is Paintless Dent Removal (PDR)?

PDR is a non-invasive repair method that removes dents and creases without the need for repainting, sanding, or filler. Using specialised tools, a trained technician gently massages the panel from behind, restoring it to its original shape.

✔ Ideal for:

• Door dings, boot or bonnet dents
• Hail damage and parking lot knocks
• Panels where the paint is intact and the metal isn’t stretched

⏱️ Timeframe:

• Most jobs are completed in under 2 hours but can span up to 4+ depending on the size and complexity.
• No need to leave your car at a workshop

🌱 Environmentally friendly:

• No paint, no waste, no chemicals

What is Panel Beating?

Panel beating is the conventional dent repair approach, often involving:

• Sanding or grinding the panel
• Filling the damaged area
• Repainting and blending the paintwork
• Waiting days (or weeks) for your car to be ready

‍✔ Ideal for:

• Severe damage or cracked paint
• Panels requiring structural repair or replacement

🧾 Typically insurance-friendly, but:

• You’ll still pay your excess, which could exceed the cost of PDR
• Repainting may not match the original finish
• Resale value can drop if the repair is visible

‍

Paintless Dent Removal Pricing (Accurate & Transparent)

With Impact Dents, pricing is clear and flat-rate based on dent size—not guesswork.

Our pricing is based on the size and complexity of the dent—no guesswork, no surprises:

• Small Dents (approximately golf ball sized or smaller, up to 2cm): From $200
• Medium Dents (Tennis ball sized, 2-5cm): From $400
• Large Dents (Larger than 5cm or complex creases): From $600
• Extra Large or Complex Dents: Custom quote based on inspection

💡 Got multiple dents on the same panel? We’ll assess the total area and provide a consolidated quote that’s better value than pricing each dent individually.

Panel Beating Pricing vs Paintless Dent Removal (PDR)

Not sure whether to go with a panel beater or PDR? Here's how they compare in real-world terms:

Cost:

PDR typically ranges from $200 to $600, depending on the dent size—while traditional panel beating can start around $300 and easily climb to $1,500 or more, with complex repairs sometimes exceeding $6,000.

Repair Time:

PDR can be done in as little as 30 minutes up to 4+ hours. Panel beating often takes 3–5 days (or longer), especially if parts need repainting or replacing.

Paint Matching:

PDR preserves your car’s original paint—no blending or mismatched panels. Panel beating typically requires repainting, which may not perfectly match your original finish.

Insurance:

PDR isn’t usually covered by insurance, but in most cases it costs less than your excess—meaning no paperwork or claims. Panel beating is generally covered but includes paying your excess and waiting for approval.

Eco-Friendliness:

PDR is a clean, green solution with no chemicals, sanding, or waste. Panel beating relies on fillers, solvents, and paint—much less sustainable.

Convenience:

With PDR, we come to you. Mobile service means your car gets fixed at your home or office. Panel beating requires a trip to a workshop and potentially leaving your vehicle there for several days.

When to Choose PDR Over Panel Beating

✅ Paint is still intact – No need to respray or fill

✅ Dent is minor to moderate – Perfect for car park knocks, hail, or boot panel damage

✅ You want it done fast – Often same-day, mobile service

✅ You want to save money – Cheaper than most insurance excesses

✅ You care about resale value – Factory paint remains untouched

When to Choose Panel Beating Over PDR

❌ Paint is cracked, chipped, or flaking

❌ Panel is torn, severely stretched, or needs replacing

❌ You’re going through insurance and have a large claim

Why Most Everyday Dents Don’t Need a Panel Beater

Let’s be honest: most dents don’t require a full respray, a few days in a workshop, or an insurance claim.

With Impact Dents, you get:
✔ A fair, transparent price
✔ Work can be done on-site (home or office)
✔ Results that protect your paint and preserve your car’s value

And the best part? In most cases, it’ll cost less than your insurance excess, with no paperwork or waiting around.