Car Dent Removal & Repair cost (Guideline)

Whether it’s caused by hail or an impact, you want to have car dents removed immediately before further damage occurs. Yet, people often fear finding out how much it will cost to remove and fix car dents. 

You might spend $50 to $95 for a small die. Higher prices will be charged for larger dents and more labor. You could be spending $300-$1,500 more in severe cases. There are several variables that affect the amount of repairs needed. 

This guide will explain why the price fluctuates. This guide also discusses some at-home remedies to remove dents.

Factors Affecting Car Dent Removal & Repair Cost

1. Dent Size

A larger dent will result in a higher repair cost. This is due to the nature of the dent.

For a small dent, it is possible to expect to pay between $50-$95. If the dent is larger or requires more extensive repair, it will increase significantly.

2. The number of dents

This seems like an obvious factor, but many people don’t consider the effect it has on the price. A small dent can be repaired for less than $100.

The price will go up if more than one dent is present. That’s why hail damage can get so expensive to repair. 

3. The Repair Method

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) might be possible if you have small dents. This low-cost method doesn’t require sanding the body, re-painting or drying, making it inexpensive and fast. The body's original shape is restored. 

If the dent is too large, PDR won’t be an option. This repair requires that the entire area be sanded and painted. A skilled technician is required. If you have large dents, it is possible to spend as much as $2,000 for repairs. Sometimes, replacing the entire panel might not be the best option. Even if you don't have the funds to replace the entire bumper, it is possible to get one for your car. 

RELATED: How much does it cost to paint a car?

3. Dent Location

If the dent is located on a body line, it’s going to be much more complicated to fix. It is best to locate the dent on a flat surface. This is easier. 

If the damage is not too severe, they might be impossible to fix. In some areas, it’s best to replace the part completely to make it look its best.

4. Type of car

Cars can cost a lot to fix, even the smallest dent. First, it could cost more to repair your car if you need a particular type of paint. 

Additionally, the car’s construction could increase the price as well. If it’s made from steel or aluminum, you could be looking at a higher cost. 

5. Repair Shop Type

A smaller and less well-known body shop could help you save money on dent repairs. This is because these technicians may not be very experienced, and you will get exactly what you pay.

However, it’s often better to go with a reputable body shop, especially if you hope to avoid overspray, color mismatching, sagging paint and other imperfections. It may make more sense to opt for the cheaper option if your car has other problems. 

Average cost of car dent repair

1. Minor Dents

A dent of less than a quarter of an inch on your car will result in you spending the most money. This dent could have occurred from hail or another impact, but it shouldn’t require a lot of labor.

As long as technicians have the proper equipment, they can usually repair a smaller dent using PDR. This dent will cost between $50 and $95 in most body shops.

2. Moderate Dents

The moderate dent will measure ½-inch to 2-inches big. Hail in severe storms can cause them. You can also get them from golf balls, and other items.

Unfortunately, not all of them can be repaired with PDR. If that’s the case, expect to spend $500 to $2,000 for each dent, depending on the location and type of paint required. 

3. Severe Dents

It is possible to have your vehicle repaired if it has been hit by a heavy object. Deep dents can be caused by items like shopping carts and baseballs. This will require manual labor.

It might be worth replacing the affected part depending on its condition. It is better to replace many bumpers than try and repair them. Repairing a small dent on a body line can cost thousands. 

Auto Dent Removal at Home

1. Plunger

You might be able remove a tiny dent at home, if you have a very small one. Don’t use your toilet plunger, but purchase one specifically designed for this auto body task. This tool can be used to remove any dents on your car.

Use the plunger by putting some water in the area. You can remove the dent by gently pushing and pulling the plunger. The car's body will look new if you do it correctly. 

2. Boiling water

You don’t need any special tools with this handy method. To remove tiny dents from the vehicle's body, you can heat water in a teapot or an electric kettle. Be careful, you might get burnt.

Pour some boiling water on the surface. It is important to lift the surface off the other side of the surface before the water cools down. This task can be difficult if you can’t easily access the other side. However, it almost always works on dents that aren’t too large. 

3. Dry Ice

Dry ice may be used to remove the dent. Dry ice may help to contract the body back into its original position. It is important to take steps to prevent dry ice getting on your skin. 

The dry ice should be placed on top of the dent. It might be necessary to gently rub the dry ice until it returns to its original form. 

4. Hairdryer/Compressed Air

The compressed air and hairdryer methods are a good alternative if you have trouble with any of the above. The hairdryer should be turned on to the hottest setting. The dent can be heated to soften it. 

The surface will begin to expand once it is heated. Now spray the compressed air can onto the dent. By using the cold air from the can, the surface of the dent will contract.  Just be careful so you won’t burn the paint.

If it’s a larger dent, you want to get help from a professional though.