Car dent repair cost
Paintless dent repair (PDR) costs about $100 to $150 for a small door ding and $150 to $500 for a larger dent. If the paint is cracked, a body shop repair with filler and paint costs about $300 to $1,500.
Quick answer
$100 – $500paintless dent repair
Most dents cost $100 to $500 with paintless repair. Damage that needs body work and paint costs up to about $1,500.
Dent repair costs
| Repair | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Small dent or door ding (PDR) | $100 – $150 |
| Larger dent (PDR) | $150 – $500 |
| PDR hourly rate | $75 – $125 per hour |
| Traditional body shop repair | $300 – $1,500 |
| Minor dent before painting | $50 – $150 per dent |
Synchrony (2024) and AAA.
When paintless dent repair works
PDR technicians push the metal back from behind the panel with special tools, so the factory paint stays intact. It works best when the paint is not cracked and the dent is not on a sharp body line or panel edge. Most small dents take 2 to 4 hours.
Insurance
Comprehensive auto insurance usually covers glass, hail and theft damage, minus your deductible. Collision coverage pays for damage from a crash. If the repair costs less than your deductible, you'll pay it yourself.
How to get a fair estimate
- Ask for a written estimate that lists parts, labor hours and the shop’s hourly rate before any work starts.
- Ask whether the quote uses OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and what warranty comes with the parts and the labor.
- Get a second quote for any repair over a few hundred dollars. Independent shops often charge less per hour than dealers.
- Ask the shop to show you the old part or the reading that proves it failed, and to call you before doing extra work.
- Check for recalls and warranty coverage first: many powertrain, emissions and hybrid parts carry longer factory warranties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to fix a dent in a car?
About $100 to $150 for a small ding and $150 to $500 for a larger dent with paintless repair. Body shop repairs cost $300 to $1,500.
Is paintless dent repair worth it?
Yes, when the paint isn't damaged. It is usually cheaper and faster than body work and keeps the factory finish.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your vehicle, location, parts and shop, so get a written estimate. Car Repair Atlas is not a repair shop; read our disclaimer.