Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) in Seattle, WA
Your complete guide to hail damage, door dings, and PDR services in Seattle
Quick Facts: Seattle PDR Services
Average Costs
- • Small dents: $80-140
- • Medium dents: $140-290
- • Hail per panel: $100-250 (very rare)
- • Typical time: 1-3 hours for small dents
Local Hail & Service Info
- • Hail risk: Low
- • Annual events: 1-3 hail events per year (rare, usually minor)
- • 50+ certified PDR specialists
- • Mobile: Available
Seattle's Marine/Oceanic Climate & Hail Risk
Summer Average
75°F (24°C)
Winter Average
45°F (7°C)
Hail Risk
Low
Hail Season
Rare, typically winter months
1-3 hail events per year (rare, usually minor) in Seattle
Climate Challenges for PDR
- ▸Constant moisture complicates outdoor PDR work
- ▸Limited sunlight extends repair visibility
- ▸Rain requires covered workspace
- ▸Cool temperatures less ideal for PDR
- ▸Rust concerns with older vehicles
Common Dent Issues in Seattle
Based on Seattle's low hail risk and local driving conditions:
- ⚠Door dings from crowded urban parking
- ⚠Parking garage incidents
- ⚠Shopping cart damage
- ⚠Minor collision dents
- ⚠Tight street parking creases
- ⚠Bike lane/cyclist contact dents
- ⚠Rare hail damage (mostly small dents)
Washington PDR Regulations & Insurance
Insurance Coverage
Washington requires comprehensive coverage for collision/dent damage
Standard claim process; hail claims are rare
PDR Technician Licensing
Auto body technicians must be state-licensed; PDR specialists should carry liability insurance
Washington has strict auto repair regulations; ensure shop is properly licensed
PDR Service Costs in Seattle
| Repair Type | Typical Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Small Dent (Dime-sized) | $80-140 | 30-60 minutes |
| Medium Dent (Golf ball-sized) | $140-290 | 1-2 hours |
| Hail Damage (per panel) | $100-250 (very rare) | Varies by severity |
| Mobile Service Fee | $0-50 | - |
Price factors: Final cost depends on dent size, depth, location, paint condition, and access difficulty.Hybrids and Electric vehicles, common in Seattle's Technology industry, may require specialized tools for panel access.
How to Choose a PDR Technician in Seattle
- Verify certification and training. Auto body technicians must be state-licensed; PDR specialists should carry liability insurance Ask for credentials from DRTI, Dent Wizard, Keco, or similar industry organizations.
- Check for climate-appropriate workspace. Seattle's marine/oceanic climate (45°F (7°C) to 75°F (24°C)) affects PDR quality. Ensure the shop has a covered, temperature-controlled workspace.
- Assess paint condition compatibility. PDR works best with healthy paint. Have the technician inspect paint before proceeding - damaged paint may crack.
- Confirm insurance compatibility. Standard claim process; hail claims are rare Many Seattle shops work directly with insurers for seamless claim processing.
- Get written warranty details. Quality PDR should include lifetime warranty against the dent returning. Ensure coverage for Seattle's climate-related issues.
Finding Certified PDR Technicians in Seattle
Seattle has 50+ certified PDR specialists meeting industry standards. Mobile service is widely available throughout the 4 million metro area.
Find Certified PDR Specialists Near YouFrequently Asked Questions: Seattle PDR Services
How much does PDR cost in Seattle?
Paintless Dent Repair in Seattle costs $80-140 for small door dings, $140-290 for medium dents, and $100-250 (very rare) per panel for hail damage. Pricing depends on size, depth, location, and number of dents. Mobile service is available.
What are the most common dent issues in Seattle?
Seattle's low hail risk creates these common issues:
- Door dings from crowded urban parking
- Parking garage incidents
- Shopping cart damage
- Minor collision dents
What is the hail season in Seattle?
Seattle has low hail risk with 1-3 hail events per year (rare, usually minor). The primary season is Rare, typically winter months.
Does insurance cover PDR in Washington?
Washington requires comprehensive coverage for collision/dent damage Standard claim process; hail claims are rare PDR is typically covered under comprehensive (hail, vandalism) or collision (parking lot incidents) insurance. Standard deductibles apply, typically $500-$1,000.
How long does PDR take in Seattle?
Typical turnaround: 1-3 hours for small dents. Seattle's frequent rain requires covered workspace. Door dings are usually same-day repairs.
When is PDR not possible?
PDR doesn't work when paint is cracked, dents are on sharp body lines, metal is stretched, or dents exceed 6 inches. A qualified technician will assess and recommend traditional body work if needed.