Category: Auto Body Paint Repair

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Dent in a Car?

You got a little too close to the curb or the person next to you decided to ding your door in the parking lot. Owning a car means dealing with unexpected dents and dings—both from Mother Nature and other drivers. Unfortunately, dents in your vehicle are nothing short of an eyesore and can also diminish resale value. But don’t worry. As long as you have a reputable local auto body shop in New Jersey like Elmer’s Auto Body close by, you can have those dents repaired in no time. Of course, that also raises the question of cost, so let’s take a look at how much it costs to repair dents.

What Causes Dents?

Dents can be caused by various incidents and scenarios. Some common causes include:

Minor Collisions: Bumping into another vehicle or a stationary object can leave dents on your car’s body.
Door Dings: In busy parking lots, opening doors of nearby vehicles can lead to small dents on the side of your car.
Hailstorms: Hailstones can cause numerous dents on the surface of your vehicle during severe weather events.
Accidents with Shopping Carts: Errant shopping carts can inflict dents on your car’s exterior, especially in crowded shopping areas.
Low-Speed Collisions: Minor accidents, even at low speeds, can result in dents.

What is the Average Auto Dent Repair Cost?

The cost of dent repair varies depending on several factors. For small, shallow dents of about an inch in size, you might spend around $125 for repairs. Larger dents can start at $150 and go up if the dent is deep or located in a complicated area to fix. Dent repair costs can range from as low as $50 to as high as $2,500, depending on the dent’s size and complexity.

Factors That Influence the Cost for Dent Removal

Several key factors come into play when determining the cost of dent removal:

Size: Larger dents cost more to fix than smaller ones, especially if there’s additional damage to your car.
Dent Location: Dents in hard-to-reach areas, on high-strength steel materials, or spanning multiple parts or panels will increase the repair costs.
Depth: Deeper dents will require more work and thus cost more to remove.
Your Location: Dent repair costs can vary based on your area’s prices and the auto shop you choose.
Make and Model: Luxury vehicles usually incur higher repair costs compared to budget-class cars.

Options for Dent Repair

Now that you know the answer to “How much does dent repair cost?”, it’s time to discuss how to go about getting those dents and dings removed. When it comes to dent repair, you have a few options to consider:

Traditional Dent Repair: This method involves pounding the dent out of the car’s external body and then sanding down the area. It is more economical than replacing panels but should only be done by a professional to avoid further damage and warranty issues. Traditional dent repair is recommended for larger, more extensive damage caused by collisions or severe hail damage.
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR): PDR is a process where a skilled technician uses specialized tools to reshape the dented area from the inside, without affecting the paintwork. This method is ideal for small to medium-sized dents with intact paint and is usually more cost-effective than traditional repair.
DIY Dent Repair: For small, shallow dents, you may try DIY dent repair kits or tools, which can be more affordable, starting at around $4. However, be cautious as improper techniques may worsen the dent, leading to costlier repairs in the long run.

Can You Visually Estimate the Cost of Dent Repair for Your Vehicle?

Estimating the cost of dent repair for your vehicle can be a bit challenging as it depends on several factors specific to your car and the extent of the damage. However, you can follow these steps to get a rough idea:

Assess the Size and Location: Identify the size and location of the dent. Small dents are generally less expensive to fix, while larger or multiple dents will increase the cost.
Determine the Depth: The depth of the dent matters too. Deeper dents may require more extensive repair work, impacting the overall cost.
Research Local Auto Body Shops: Reach out to local auto body shops and inquire about their dent repair pricing. Many shops offer free estimates, so take advantage of this service.
Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. Collect quotes from different shops to compare prices and services.

Again, remember the factors that influence the cost of auto dent removal services in New Jersey. For example, larger dents that have a greater depth are going to require more extensive repairs compared to smaller dents that can be removed with PDR.

Looking for an NJ Body Shop with Auto Dent Removal?

Dent repair costs can vary significantly based on various factors, and it’s essential to consider the size and location of the dent, as well as your car’s make and model. On average, it’s around $150, but that cost can go above $2,000. While some small dents can be fixed with DIY methods, it’s best to leave complex repairs to the professionals, like those at Elmer’s Auto Body. When you bring your vehicle in to one of our four locations for collision or dent repair, your satisfaction is guaranteed. Each member of our team is certified and experienced in techniques like paintless dent repair, ensuring that your car’s appearance will be as good as its pre-accident condition upon its return. Give us a call today or fill out the contact form to set up an appointment.

Complete Guide to Paint Repair: Restoring Color and Shine to Your Medford, NJ Vehicle

Your vehicle’s paint is not just about aesthetics; it serves as a protective layer against the elements, preventing rust and other damage. Over time, however, the paint can get chipped, scratched, or faded due to various factors. If you’re a vehicle owner in Medford, NJ, and you find that your paint needs some attention, then continue reading this article for more information on restoring color and shine to your vehicle.

What Contributes to Paint Damage on Medford, NJ Vehicles?

There are several factors that can contribute to the deterioration of your vehicle’s paint, including:

Environmental Factors

Exposure to the elements can take a toll on your vehicle’s paint. Sunlight, UV rays, and extreme weather conditions, such as heat, cold, hail, and acid rain, can cause paint to fade, crack, or peel over time.

Road Debris

Small rocks, gravel, sand, and other debris can get kicked up by vehicles or wind and hit the surface of your car, resulting in paint chips, scratches, or dents. Dust can also lead to paint fading. Be sure to wash your car regularly to keep road debris from ruining your paint.

Chemicals and Pollutants

Exposure to chemicals such as gasoline, brake fluid, bird droppings, tree sap, and industrial pollutants can cause paint damage. These substances can eat away at the paint’s protective clear coat or penetrate the color layer, resulting in stains, discoloration, or etching.

Improper Maintenance

Do you often overlook washing, waxing, and detailing your vehicle? When you do wash your car, do you use rough sponges and regular dish soap? These things can unfortunately accelerate the deterioration of your car’s paint.

Accidents and Collisions

Collisions, fender benders, or accidents can cause significant paint damage, including dents, deep scratches, or paint scuffs.

Poor Quality or Improper Paint Application

In some cases, paint damage can be attributed to the use of low-quality paint or an incorrect application process during the manufacturing or repainting of the vehicle.

How to Restore Color and Shine With Paint Repair in Medford, NJ

Dingy paint, dings, and other paint-related issues are not set in stone. You can repair the damage, particularly if you rely on a professional auto body shop in NJ, like Elmer’s Auto Body. There are also DIY options for subtle problems, such as small scratches or tiny rust spots.

Please keep in mind that the severity of your paint’s damage is going to dictate what works best. Sometimes faded paint only requires a decent wash and some polishing products. Paint damage that was caused by an accident or weather-related damage, then you may have to visit an auto body shop.

With that in mind, here are some ways to restore the color and shine of your vehicle:

Touch-Up Paint

When you have small damages on your vehicle that you can repair yourself, then touch-up paint options are ideal. These options usually come in the form of pens or bottles containing the exact color match for your vehicle. Clean the damaged area, apply the touch-up paint carefully, and allow it to dry. Finish by sanding and polishing to blend the repaired area with the surrounding paintwork.

Sanding and Repainting

For deeper scratches, larger chips, or extensive paint damage, sanding and repainting (also known as traditional body repair) may be necessary. Start by cleaning the damaged area and using sandpaper to smooth the edges and create a smooth surface. Apply a primer, matching the original color, and let it dry. Then, carefully apply the base coat and top it off with a clear coat for protection. Allow each layer to dry between applications and finish by sanding and polishing the repainted area for a seamless blend.

If you are not confident doing this yourself, consider taking your vehicle to an auto body shop in Medford, NJ like Elmer’s Auto Body.

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)

PDR is a technique used to repair small dents without the need for repainting. It involves using specialized tools to gently massage and reshape the damaged area from behind the panel, restoring it to its original shape. This method is effective for minor dents caused by hail, door dings, or minor impacts, and it does not require actual sanding or repainting.

Paint Restoration

If your vehicle’s paint has lost its shine, appears faded, or has light scratches, paint restoration techniques can help rejuvenate the finish. This involves using polishing compounds, clay bars, and specialized restoration products to remove surface contaminants, oxidation, and fine scratches, restoring the color and shine. Follow up with a protective wax or sealant to maintain the restored finish.

Looking for Paint Repair in Medford, NJ?

Taking care of your vehicle’s paint is essential to maintain its appearance and protect it from further damage. Whether you’re dealing with minor chips and scratches or more significant paint issues, there are various methods available to repair and restore your vehicle’s paint. Aside from regular washing, waxing, and adding protective coatings, you may also need to contact an auto body shop for paint repair or restoration.

If you are in Medford, NJ, give Elmer’s Auto Body a call. Our team is highly experienced in PDR and other paint repair techniques, as well as collision repair. Let us tackle your paint repairs.

Why Are There Paint Bubbles On My Car and How Do I Fix It?

After your vehicle has been repainted, you may be disheartened when bubbles or blisters appear on the new coat. These paint bubbles typically emerge two to three months after the application, causing frustration and concern. Learning first what causes these paint blisters to appear is crucial, as is then figuring out how to fix the issue. Fortunately, this is a problem that can be addressed! Here’s what you need to know about car paint bubbles.

Causes of Paint Bubbles on Your Car in NJ

Paint bubbles, also known as osmotic blistering, occur when moisture enters the paint and becomes trapped below or within its surface. Now, this trapped moisture can form for a variety of reasons, including:

Heat and Humidity

If the car paint was applied on a hot and humid day, there is a greater chance of paint bubbles forming. As the paint is applied, the excess moisture in the air may become trapped in between the layers of paint. As the paint dries, the moisture is going to need somewhere to go, forming bubbles.

Insufficient Drying Time

When applying car paint, it is important that every layer dries. Otherwise, moisture and solvents in the paint are going to become trapped beneath the new surface. The same thing that happens on a humid day occurs: the air needs somewhere to go. In order to avoid paint bubbling, be sure to give the paint enough time to dry before proceeding onto the next layer.

Contaminants

Be sure to give your car a thorough washing before you decide to paint it. Wax residue, grease, dirt, and any other contaminants that are on the paint’s surface when you start applying the new coat are going to hinder proper adhesion. Sometimes these contaminants even react with the ingredients of the paint, causing reactions that result in bubbling and blistering.

Bare Metal Exposure

Sometimes bubbles will form when it comes in contact with metal. For example, your vehicle has a fender bender that scrapes away the paint from a metal component. Over time, that metal is exposed to debris and moisture, forming corrosion. When new paint is applied to that metal, it also comes into contact with moisture and contaminants that react negatively to the paint.

Solvent Pop

Another condition that can cause issues with the paint surface is solvent pop. Solvent pop occurs when too much paint is applied too quickly, particularly during the application of a clear coat. Instead of bubbles, solvent pop appears as tiny pinholes on the painted surface.

When excessive amounts of paint are applied rapidly, solvents in the paint don’t have enough time to evaporate properly. As a result, the trapped solvents create small pockets of air or bubbles that burst, leaving behind pinhole-sized imperfections on the paint surface. Solvent pop is often caused by improper spraying techniques or using incompatible paint products.

How to Fix Car Paint Bubbling

Now that you know that car paint bubbling is caused by moisture and contaminants under the paint, it is time to discuss the repair process. Do keep in mind that while these steps can be performed at home, it is always best to rely on one of the many trusted auto body shops in South Jersey, like Elmer’s Auto Body. Furthermore, the appropriate path for repairing paint bubble damage entirely depends on the severity of the blistering. Small areas are easier for a DIY project, while more extensive bubbling is often attributed to excessive corrosion.

Here are steps to address the problem:

Prepare The Surface

Do not skip this step! Clean the affected area thoroughly using a mild automotive detergent and a soft sponge or cloth. Remove any dirt, grease, or wax residue that may be present. Rinse the area with clean water and ensure it is completely dry before proceeding.

Sand Away The Paint Bubbles

Gently sand the area around the paint bubbles using fine-grit sandpaper. This step helps remove the blistered paint and creates a smooth surface for the new paint application. Be cautious not to sand too aggressively, as it may damage the underlying layers. Feather the edges of the sanded area to ensure a seamless blend with the surrounding paint.

Priming

Apply a high-quality automotive primer to the sanded area. The primer helps create a strong bond between the surface and the new paint. Choose a primer specifically designed for automotive applications. Be sure to apply the primer evenly to the entire area being repaired.

Repaint The Area

Once the primer is dry, apply a matching automotive paint color to the repaired area. Use light, even coats and allow sufficient drying time between each coat. It is advisable to use the same type and brand of paint that was originally used on the vehicle to ensure a seamless and durable repair.

Apply a Clear Coat

Wait for the paint to thoroughly dry then grab some clear coat. Clear coat provides a glossy finish and helps blend the repaired section with the rest of the car’s surface. When applying, make sure to use thin coats to create a uniform finish.

Polish and Wax

Once the clear coat has dried, polish the repaired area to blend it seamlessly with the surrounding paint. Use a high-quality automotive polish and a soft cloth to gently buff the surface. This step helps remove any imperfections and restores the shine to the repaired area. Finally, apply a wax or paint sealant to protect the repaired area and the entire car’s surface.

Look For an Auto Body Paint Shop in NJ?

Understanding the causes of paint bubbles on your car can help you address the issue more effectively and prevent it from happening in the future. For the best results, be sure to schedule an appointment at one of the auto body shops in South Jersey near you. Elmer’s Auto Body has several locations to choose from, as well as experienced staff with many years of experience. Aside from collision repair, Elmer’s Auto Body is also fully equipped for paintless dent repair and body paint repair. Give us a call today or fill out the contact form for more information or to schedule your appointment.

Is It Really Worth It To Repair a Fender Bender in NJ?

Fender benders are one of the most frustrating experiences for car owners in New Jersey. Although the damage may be minimal on first glance, there is always a chance that the collision is far from minor. Is it really worth it to repair a fender bender, though? The answer is not always obvious. There are factors to take into consideration, which this article aims to cover. Once you understand why it may be worthwhile to get your fender bender repaired, you can make an educated decision whether to call a body repair shop in NJ.

What is a Fender Bender?

A fender bender refers to a minor accident typically involving low-speed collisions. It often results in cosmetic damage to the fenders, bumpers, and sometimes adjacent panels of a vehicle. While the term “fender bender” may sound relatively harmless, it’s important to recognize that even seemingly minor damage can have implications beyond the surface.

Potential Fender Bender Damages

Let’s take a look at the possible issues caused by a fender bender:

Cosmetic Damage

The most apparent consequence of a fender bender is cosmetic damage to the affected areas of the vehicle. Scratches, dents, or paint chips can diminish the visual appeal of your car. Some fender benders may even cause cracks in plastic components. While these damages may seem insignificant, they can affect your car’s aesthetics, resale value, and overall satisfaction as a car owner.

Functional Issues

Even if an impact is not severe, your vehicle may still have some functional problems afterwards. For example, the collision may cause misalignments or even cause sensors to malfunction. Headlights, taillights, and turn signals may be damaged, making it more risky to drive your vehicle.

Structural Damage

In some cases, a fender bender can result in underlying structural damage. This damage may not be immediately visible but can compromise the integrity of your vehicle. The impact can misalign the frame, suspension, or other critical components, leading to issues with the vehicle’s performance, safety, and handling. It is crucial to have a professional inspection to identify any structural damage that may require repair.

Resale Value

If you plan to sell or trade-in your vehicle in the future, repairing a fender bender becomes significant. Potential buyers are often deterred by visible damage, regardless of its severity. By repairing the damage, you maintain your vehicle’s resale value and increase its appeal to prospective buyers.

This is also important when it comes to lease agreements, as such damages may incur penalties when you go to return the vehicle.

Should You Repair Your Fender Bender?

So, you had a fender bender. Now what do you do? If the damage doesn’t seem too bad, is it worth it to get your vehicle inspected and repaired? Here are some considerations that can help you determine what to do:

Safety and Functionality of Your Vehicle

The main thing you should be concerned about is whether the fender bender has done something to compromise the safety and functionality of your vehicle. There is always a risk that a collision—even a minimal one—causes some kind of impairment. As such, if you believe that your car is not going to be safe for commuting, it is best to have it inspected by an automotive technician to see what misalignments and other issues are present. Even if it feels like nothing is wrong, checking off the box that your car is safe to drive and is not a risk is essential not only for you and your passengers but to others on the road.

Personal Satisfaction

As mentioned above, cosmetic damages are common in fender benders. Missing patches of paint, dents, cracks, and other marks may be left behind after a fender bender that take away from the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle. Being that most people select their vehicle based on how it looks, any deduction from your personal satisfaction counts as a reason to have the cosmetic issues repaired. After all, your peace of mind is worth it.

On the other hand, even if you did not personally mind a scratch or ding or your vehicle, someone else might. If you are planning on trading in or selling your vehicle in the future, it may be smart to boost your car’s resale value by having the cosmetic damages of the fender bender repaired.

Professional Inspection and Recommendations

Consult with a reputable mechanic or body shop to assess the extent of the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. They can identify hidden damages and offer professional advice on the necessity of repairs. Their expertise will guide you in making an informed decision.

Insurance Coverage

Review your insurance policy to understand the coverage and deductible for collision repairs. If the cost of repairing the fender bender falls within or slightly exceeds your deductible, it may be worth filing a claim and having the repairs covered by your insurance.

Looking For Fender Bender Repair in NJ?

Is it really worth it to repair a fender bender in New Jersey? It depends on the extent of the damage and your personal preferences. Keep in mind that, while some damages may appear minor at first, they can have long-term implications on your vehicle’s safety, functionality, and resale value. Consulting with professionals and understanding your insurance coverage will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your priorities.

If you had a fender bender in South Jersey and are looking to have your vehicle assessed and repaired, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. We are consistently rated one of the best body shops in NJ. Our experienced team is highly trained and certified by multiple manufacturers to return your car to its pre-accident state. Give one of our locations a call today or fill out the contact form to request more information or schedule an appointment.

Can Rain Damage a Car in NJ?

There are many states in the nation that are no stranger to rainfall, including New Jersey. With such a diverse climate, you may wonder how weather, such as rain, can impact your vehicle. While rain itself is not much of a risk to modern cars and their paint jobs, there are some factors associated with rain that can affect a vehicle’s condition. This is especially true when there are pre-existing vulnerabilities. So, can rain damage your car in NJ? Let’s find out.

Rust and Structural Integrity

Did you know that prolonged exposure to rain can cause your car to rust faster? This is especially true if you have an older vehicle with worn paint or pre-existing rust spots. Furthermore, in the humid climate of New Jersey, moisture from rain can settle on the car’s surface and contribute to the corrosion of vulnerable spots. Over time, this rust can weaken the affected areas and potentially compromise the car’s structural integrity.

Rust is obviously worrisome for car owners, so you need to know how to mitigate the risk of it developing. Make sure you have a routine maintenance schedule for your vehicle. If there are existing rust spots that seem to be getting worse, start using rust inhibitors or consider applying a protective coating. These products prevent any additional moisture from accelerating corrosion. In addition to inhibitors and coatings, you may want to apply a paint sealant or wax to act as a protective shell against the elements.

Water Damage

While rain showers are common in New Jersey, the state also experiences occasional heavy rainstorms and even flooding. In such instances, water levels can rise rapidly and pose a significant threat to cars. If water enters the car’s interior or reaches critical components like the engine or electrical systems, it can lead to severe damage.

If you find yourself driving during a flood or parking in a flood-prone area, it is essential to exercise caution and prioritize your safety. Avoid driving through standing water as it can enter the engine intake or damage vital components such as the transmission or exhaust system. Additionally, water entering the interior can cause extensive damage to the electrical systems, upholstery, and carpeting.

In the event that your car does end up waterlogged, it’s important that you take your vehicle to one of the best body shops in NJ to get it inspected. An experienced auto technician will look at the extent of damage to your vehicle and decide if any repairs or replacements need to be done. The more quickly you act, the better long-term damage, such as electrical problems, can be avoided.

Leaking and Interior Damages

Aside from flooding, there is also the risk of leaks during heavy downpours. Older vehicles, particularly ones that spend a lot of time under the sun, tend to see cracking around seals and weather stripping. During torrential rainfall, it is not uncommon for water to seep through gaps around windows, sunroofs, and doors, causing interior water damage.

To address this issue, it is important to regularly inspect your car for any signs of leaks or damaged seals. Pay close attention to areas prone to leaks, such as window seals and sunroof drains. If you notice water entering the interior, act promptly to dry the affected areas thoroughly. Using absorbent materials and employing dehumidifiers can help prevent mold and mildew growth.

Additionally, replacing worn-out weather stripping and sealing any gaps can help prevent water intrusion during heavy rain. Applying a silicone-based rubber protectant to the seals can help maintain their flexibility and prolong their lifespan, reducing the likelihood of leaks.

Paint Quality Killers

Have you ever looked up at the sky and thought, “Oh, I’m going to get a free car wash soon?” Although rainwater is indeed water, it is not the kind that is going to leave your car looking any cleaner once the storm has passed. Take, for instance, acidic rain, which may occur in regions where the air quality is more polluted. Acid rain can cause paint discoloration, etching, and fading, especially with long-term exposure.

Rain can also interact with any contaminants on the vehicle’s exterior, such as bird droppings, dirt, chemicals (such as brine from the winter months), and tree sap. Such contaminants can cause staining, fading, and even accelerate corrosion if they are not properly cleaned away in time. In fact, bird droppings alone can react with paint, being that they contain high levels of acid.

The best way to counteract these issues is to regularly wash your car with a mild automotive soap and a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. After washing, ensure your car is thoroughly dried to prevent water spots. Water spots are mineral deposits left behind when rainwater evaporates. These spots can etch into the paint surface if not promptly addressed. Use a microfiber drying towel or a leaf blower to remove excess water. If water spots do occur, they can often be removed with a mild acidic solution or specialized automotive detailing products.

Head to the Best Body Shop in NJ For Repairs

Is rain bad for your car in NJ? Rain itself may not extensively damage a car, but it is important to be aware of potential risks associated with prolonged exposure to moisture. By taking proactive measures such as regular maintenance, addressing rust spots, promptly attending to leaks, and maintaining a clean exterior, you can help safeguard your vehicle from the potential adverse effects of rain.

In the event that your car has been damaged by inclement weather, consider having those issues repaired at Elmer’s Auto Body. Our team offers repairs for hail damage and other body paint issues that need to be addressed. With our many years of experience and attention to detail, we can make rain damage disappear. Our four locations in South Jersey make it easy for you to get an appointment wherever you are located, so give us a call or fill out our contact form today to receive more information.

Can Hail Dents Be Removed With Sun Exposure?

Although hail is not a common occurrence in New Jersey, there is always a chance of some hail falling from the sky when you least expect it. Unfortunately, for the unsuspecting, that often means a vehicle left out in the hail. Left behind after the storm are unsightly dents and other damages that you probably want repaired as soon as possible. Perhaps you have read online that leaving your car out in the sun can repair the hail damage, but this is a misconception. Let’s delve into hail damage repair, including the sun exposure myth.

How Does Hail Damage a Vehicle?

Hail damage occurs when hailstones, ranging in size from small pebbles to larger projectiles, impact a vehicle’s body. The forceful impact causes dents and dings, often leaving the surface uneven and dimpled. Hailstones can damage various parts of a vehicle, including the roof, hood, trunk, doors, and even windows. The severity of the damage can range from minor cosmetic imperfections to more significant structural issues, such as cracked windshields or damaged paint.

Naturally, the size and speed of the hailstones when striking the vehicle will determine the severity of the damage to your vehicle. Additionally, the angle and direction of the hail’s trajectory can affect the areas of the vehicle that are most susceptible to dents.

Can Hail Dents Be Removed With Sun Exposure?

There is some advice out there suggesting that hail dents will disappear should your car be left out in the sun. This is incorrect. Hail dents cannot be removed with sun exposure. It is thought that this myth surfaced due to confusion between metal physical properties and thermal expansion. While some metals will expand when exposed to heat, saying that hail damages will vanish in the sun is oversimplifying what is truly happening with thermal expansion.

Hail dents are not merely a result of compression or contraction of the metal caused by the impact of hailstones. They involve complex deformations and stretching of the metal, altering its shape and causing visible depressions. While heat can cause expansion in metals, the dents caused by hail require targeted repair techniques to restore the metal to its original form.

In other words, relying solely on sun exposure to remove the hail dents and dings may only cause further complications. Your car may start to look worse, especially the paint. Exposure to UV rays can cause the paint to fade or peel, exacerbating the appearance of the dents and potentially compromising the vehicle’s overall aesthetics.

What Are Some Methods For Repairing Hail Damage in NJ?

Fortunately, there are far more reliable methods for removing hail dents, such as paintless dent repair, kits, and traditional body repair. The best choice will depend on how bad your car has been damaged, as well as the availability of the service. Here is a look at some ways to fix hail damage:

Paintless Dent Repair

Also known as PDR, this widely used and effective method works well on hail damage. Trained technicians make use of specialized tools to gently massage the metal panels back into their original shape. This technique is particularly suitable for minor to moderate hail damage, as it preserves the original paint finish and maintains the vehicle’s value. PDR is a non-invasive process that does not require repainting, making it a preferred choice for many vehicle owners.

If you are looking for hail dent repair in New Jersey, consider Elmer’s Auto Body PDR service. Our experienced mechanics can remove those pesky dents and dings, restoring your car’s exterior quickly and effectively.

PDR with Glue Pulling

In certain situations, glue pulling is combined with PDR techniques to repair hail damage. This method involves applying special glue to a small tab or a plastic adapter, which is then attached to the center of the dent. Once the glue has cured, a pulling device is used to gradually pull the dent outward, effectively restoring the metal’s original shape. After the dent is removed, any remaining glue residue is carefully cleaned off, and the panel is polished to restore its appearance.

Paintless Dent Repair with glue pulling is often used for dents that cannot be accessed from the backside or for dents with irregular shapes. It provides an alternative approach to the traditional PDR method, expanding the range of hail damage that can be effectively repaired without the need for repainting.

Traditional Body Repair

In the event that the hail damage done to your car is severe or if the dents are deep and irregularly shaped, it may be better for the mechanic to use traditional body repair techniques. Traditional body repair involves filling the dents in with body filler, a kind of putty or plastic. Once the filler has hardened, the technician sands the surface down until it is smooth. Priming is then applied, followed by paint that matches the vehicle’s original color. The final step is a clear coat and polish.

Traditional body repair is highly effective at restoring extensive hail damage, but it is also more costly and time consuming when compared to paintless dent repair.

Hail Damage Repair Kits

For vehicle owners who are comfortable with DIY projects and have minor hail damage consisting of small dents or dings, hail damage repair kits are available on the market. These kits typically include specialized tools, such as dent pullers, suction cups, and knockdowns, along with detailed instructions for performing PDR techniques at home.

It’s important to note that hail damage repair kits are suitable for minor damage only, and professional expertise may be necessary for more significant hail damage. Using these kits requires a certain level of skill, patience, and attention to detail to achieve satisfactory results. If in doubt or if the damage is extensive, it is advisable to seek professional assistance from the best body shops in NJ, like Elmer’s Auto Body, to ensure the best outcome.

Looking to Repair Hail Damage in NJ?

New Jersey car hail damage does not have to be the end of your vehicle’s aesthetics. Although leaving your dented and dinged car out in the sun is not going to repair the hail damage, there are methods that are highly effective. Paintless dent repair (PDR) and traditional body repair from Elmer’s Auto Body in New Jersey is a wonderful option, regardless of the severity of the damages. Our skilled technicians can use a variety of techniques and tools to restore your car to its original appearance. Why not give one of our auto body shops in South Jersey a call today to schedule your appointment?