TOO GOOD TO MISS

PDR TECHNIQUES GO MAINSTREAM

After decades of separation from the collision repair sector, paintless dent repair (PDR) technicians developed techniques unheard of in the mainstream repair community. And now, some collision facilities are bringing these techniques to support more traditional repair processes. There is no question that, in some circumstances, PDR  techniques can provide the swiftest, least expensive low-risk solutions to minor damages on vehicles. 

“When it comes to PDR it really is a new industry. I know it’s been 30 some years now but that’s relativity new in this industry. The way I think about it is PDR has always been a young stepbrother to the collision industry,” explained Bill Park, the co-chief executive of the Colorado-based PDR firm Axiom Accident and Hail Repair, in his 2018 Guild 21 webinar. 

During the same webinar, Park and other guests highlighted the growing number of collision facilities that were bringing in PDR techniques in order repair parts that would otherwise be replaced. This is leading to a so-called “partial push to repair” approach, where a technician uses PDR techniques to reduce the severity of a collision repair job, then finishes the job with standard paint-based collision repair techniques. 

Using partial push to repair, a large dent can be pulled using PDR glue-pulling techniques into a much smaller one—or even completely removed.  Of course, the more dramatic the repair, the less likely is it for paint to survive the undenting process,  intact. One of the reasons that PDR techniques work on dents, is the emergence of glue pulling techniques, which in the late 2010s, had surpassed the older suction and dent-rod techniques with effectiveness. 

As Ryan Hampton, Axiom’s second chief executive stated:  “Glue pulling has surpassed suction for external repair. It has grown by leaps and bounds. No one who we work with drills a panel anymore. Rather than removing a bumper cover, throw a glue tab on there and pull the dent out. Glue has moved up a lot. It can move a lot of metal as compared to a dent rod. So, there are a lot of advantages there. Guys are just getting better at it.” 

Of course, it isn’t just the evolution of glue pulling methods that has allowed PDR techniques to become valuable in traditional repairing facilities. 

Another advance is the use of a hot box, which uses an induction unit, like those found on high-end oven elements, to reform the metal. The technique allows technicians to pull on the dent from the top side of the panel and eliminate damage to the back side of the panel. In fact, with the introduction of BETAG Innovation’s own induction heating unit back in 2016, the brand began to seriously market its equipment to the mainstream.

At the time, BETAG COO, Dave Flockhart, explained that though the PDR technology might have been envisaged for PDR technicians, it now offers new opportunities to collision facilities. 

“For us, it’s one of the fundamentals of metal repair. If you can get access to the backside of the metal and push it, you’ve expanded your options and you can make the quality of the repair much better,” explained Flockhart. 

He also suggested that collision facilities that invest in using PDR tools proficiently, could see a significant benefit. 

“I think there are opportunities for collision centres to develop their skill sets. The time to become a proficient PDR tech is significant, but the centres that encourage their technicians to embrace small damage repair have an opportunity to establish a significant competitive advantage.” 

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"Cars in a Professional Collision Repair Workshop with Technicians Expertly Restoring Vehicles to Pre-Collision Glory"

Unraveling the Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient Collision Repair Solutions

In the aftermath of a traffic accident, navigating the maze of collision repair can be a daunting ordeal. Yet, the key to swiftly restoring the harmony between life and the road lies in understanding the essentials of efficient collision repair solutions. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel these essentials, ensuring that your vehicle receives the care it needs to return to its pre-collision glory.

**1. Initial Assessment and Estimation**

The first step in the collision repair process involves a thorough assessment and estimation. Professionals will examine your vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Utilizing latest technologies, such as 3D scanning and computerized estimating systems, repair shops can provide accurate and detailed estimates, ensuring transparency and fairness in the repair process. Prioritizing shops that offer free, no-obligation estimates can also be a beneficial practice.

**2. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts**

A crucial decision in the repair process is the choice between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance, maintaining your vehicle’s value and integrity. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts, often less expensive, might not always match the exact specifications of your vehicle, potentially affecting performance and safety. For high-quality repairs, OEM parts are generally recommended, though in some cases, aftermarket parts can serve as a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on safety.

**3. Technological Expertise and Certification**

The complexity of modern vehicles, with their advanced safety systems and computerized components, requires a high level of technological expertise. Choosing a repair shop with certified technicians, who are trained in the latest repair techniques and technologies, is essential. Certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) signal a technician’s skills and knowledge in collision repair, offering reassurance that your vehicle is in capable hands.

**4. Paint Matching and Finishing Techniques**

The final appearance of your vehicle, upon completion of repairs, is predominantly determined by the quality of paint matching and finishing techniques. Advanced color matching technology ensures a seamless blend between the repaired areas and the original paintwork, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. A high-quality repair shop will use environmentally friendly, water-based paints, and computerized paint mixing systems to achieve an impeccable finish.

**5. Understanding the Warranty**

Before committing to a repair shop, understanding the warranty offered on the repair work is critical. A reputable shop will stand behind its work with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. Ensure you are clear about the warranty’s duration and what it entails. A solid warranty is a testament to the confidence a repair shop has in its workmanship and the quality of the parts used.

**6. Communication and Customer Service**

Excellent communication and customer service are the hallmarks of a reputable collision repair shop. The repair process should be transparent, with regular updates on the progress of your vehicle’s repairs. Professional shops will handle the coordination with insurance companies, alleviating one more concern from your list. Selecting a repair facility that values customer service ensures a more manageable and stress-free repair experience.

In conclusion, efficient collision repair solutions hinge on making informed decisions at each step of the process. From the initial assessment to the final touches, understanding the essentials delineated in this guide empowers you as a vehicle owner, ensuring that your collision repair journey culminates in a seamless and satisfactory outcome. Remember, quality repairs are an investment in your vehicle’s future, safeguarding its performance, safety, and resale value.

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