PDR Glossary

Comprehensive guide to paintless dent repair terminology, techniques, and industry terms.

TechniquesToolsDamage TypesIndustry TermsVehicle TermsProcess Terms

Techniques

Blending
The technique of gradually working the metal surrounding a dent to create a smooth transition, eliminating visible edges or high spots around the repair area.
Glue Pulling
A PDR technique using specialized adhesive tabs attached to the front of a dent, then pulled with tools to lift the metal. Used when backside access is limited.
PDR
Paintless Dent Repair - A technique for removing minor dents from vehicle body panels without affecting the factory paint finish by manipulating the metal from behind the panel.
Push to Paint
An advanced PDR technique where technicians work from behind the panel to reshape metal that has minor paint damage, preparing it for touch-up or spot painting rather than full panel repaint.

Tools

Knockdown
A tool used to gently tap down high spots or crowns that occur when metal is pushed too far during repair. Critical for achieving a smooth finish.
Line Board
A reflective board with parallel lines used to visualize dents and distortions in reflections. Essential for identifying low spots and verifying complete repairs.
PDR Rods
Specialized metal tools of various shapes and lengths used to access and push dents out from behind body panels. Available in whale tail, sharp tip, and various curved configurations.
Slide Hammer
A pulling tool used with glue tabs that allows controlled force application to lift dents from the front of a panel.
Whale Tail
A wide, flat-tipped PDR rod used for larger dents or when working in tight spaces where a broader pushing surface is needed.

Damage Types

Body Line Dent
A dent located on or crossing a vehicle's character line or body styling crease. More complex to repair as the line must be perfectly restored.
Crease
A linear dent with a sharp fold in the metal. Creases are more challenging for PDR and may require multiple pushing points or advanced techniques.
Crowned Dent
A dent that has been over-pushed during repair, creating a raised area or high spot. Requires knockdown work to flatten.
Door Ding
A small dent typically caused by another vehicle's door impacting your vehicle in a parking lot. Usually coin to golf ball-sized and ideal for PDR.
Hail Damage
Dents caused by hailstones during severe weather. Characterized by multiple shallow, round depressions across horizontal surfaces. Usually excellent PDR candidates.

Industry Terms

Comprehensive Coverage
The portion of auto insurance that covers non-collision damage including hail, vandalism, and falling objects. Most hail damage PDR claims fall under comprehensive.
I-CAR
Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair - The leading organization for auto body repair training and certification standards, including PDR courses.
NAPDRT
National Alliance of Paintless Dent Repair Technicians - A professional organization for PDR technicians providing certification, training, and industry advocacy.
Vale Training
A prestigious PDR training program known for comprehensive hands-on instruction. Vale certification is highly regarded in the industry.

Vehicle Terms

A-Pillar/B-Pillar/C-Pillar
The structural posts of a vehicle connecting the roof to the body. PDR on pillars is typically not possible due to double-skinned construction.
Factory Paint
The original paint finish applied during vehicle manufacturing. Preserving factory paint is a key advantage of PDR and affects vehicle value.
OEM
Original Equipment Manufacturer - Refers to parts and specifications from the vehicle manufacturer. OEM paint and panels are original, not aftermarket.
Panel
A discrete section of a vehicle's body such as a door, fender, hood, roof, or quarter panel. PDR is typically priced per panel.
Quarter Panel
The rear body panel between the rear door and trunk/taillight area. Often more difficult for PDR access due to inner bracing and wheel well structures.

Process Terms

Access Point
The location where PDR tools are inserted to reach behind a dented panel. May involve removing trim, lights, or interior panels.
Depth Gauge
A tool used to measure the depth of a dent. Deeper dents are more challenging and may indicate stretched metal.
Metal Memory
The tendency of sheet metal to want to return to its original stamped shape. PDR works with metal memory to restore the original contour.
Stretched Metal
Metal that has been permanently deformed beyond its elastic limit, creating excess material. Severely stretched metal may not be fully repairable with PDR alone.

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