In this guide, we break down the typical cost of dent removal, explain the different repair methods available, and help you understand what a fair price looks like, so you can make a confident decision when choosing a bodyshop.
What Affects the Cost of Dent Removal?
Several things influence how much you will pay to have a dent removed. Understanding these factors can help you compare quotes more fairly.
Size of the dent Smaller dents, such as door dings from a car park, are usually cheaper to fix than larger dents caused by a collision or falling object. The bigger the dent, the more time and skill is needed to repair it.
Location on the vehicle Dents on flat, easy-to-reach panels like doors or bonnets are generally simpler to repair. Dents near edges, creases, or tight curves are harder to access and can cost more.
Whether the paint is damaged If the paintwork is still intact, paintless dent removal (PDR) is usually possible. This is faster and less expensive. If the paint has cracked or flaked, traditional bodywork repair is needed, which costs more.
The type of vehicle Repairs on high-end or prestige vehicles can cost more, as these cars often require specialist care and paint-matching to a higher standard.
Where you take it Mobile technicians may charge less than a full bodyshop, but a bodyshop offers a more controlled environment and often a warranty on the work. Always check what is included in the quote.
Typical Dent Removal Prices in the UK
The table below gives a general guide to what you might expect to pay for dent removal in the UK. These are approximate figures and prices can vary between garages and regions.
| Dent Type | Repair Method | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small door ding (less than 1 inch) | Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) | £60 to £150 |
| Medium dent (1 to 3 inches) | Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) | £150 to £300 |
| Large panel dent (over 3 inches) | Traditional bodywork repair | £300 to £600+ |
| Dent with paint damage | Traditional bodywork repair with respray | £400 to £1,000+ |
| Hail damage (multiple small dents) | PDR | £200 to £800+ |
Prices above are rough estimates only. Always ask for a written quote before agreeing to any work.
Paintless Dent Removal vs Traditional Repair: What Is the Difference?
Paintless Dent Removal (PDR)
PDR is a technique that uses specialist tools to gently push or pull a dent back into shape without touching the paintwork. It is the most common method used for small to medium dents where the paint has not been damaged.
The main advantages of PDR are that it is quicker, cheaper, and leaves no trace of the repair when done well. Many professional dent removal specialists use PDR as their first choice because it produces a clean finish without the need for sanding or repainting.
Traditional Bodywork Repair
When a dent is too large, too deep, or has caused the paint to crack or peel, traditional repair methods are needed. This typically involves filling, sanding, and respraying the affected area to blend it back in with the rest of the car.
Traditional repair takes longer and costs more, but it is sometimes the only option for serious damage. A good bodyshop will always explain which method is right for your vehicle and why.
Why Do Prices Vary Between Garages?
You might find that two garages give you quite different quotes for the same dent. This can happen for several reasons.
Some garages include a full warranty on their repairs, while others do not. Some use manufacturer-approved materials and processes, which costs more but gives a better long-term result. Labour rates also vary depending on location, with garages in London and the South East often charging more than those in other parts of the UK.
Be cautious of prices that seem unusually low. A cheap quote might mean lower quality materials, less experienced technicians, or a quick fix that does not last. Always ask what is included, whether there is a warranty, and whether the garage is insurance approved.
How to Avoid Being Overcharged
Here are a few straightforward steps to help you get a fair deal on dent removal.
Get more than one quote. It is always worth contacting at least two or three bodyshops to compare prices for the same job. Make sure each quote covers the same scope of work.
Ask for a written quote, not just an estimate. A quote is a fixed price for the work. An estimate is just a rough idea and can change. Citizens Advice has helpful guidance on the difference between quotes and estimates, and your rights if a garage charges more than agreed, on their Problem with a car repair page.
Check whether the garage is insurance approved. Insurance-approved bodyshops are assessed against set standards. This gives you added reassurance about the quality of their work.
Look for reviews. Checking Google or Trustpilot reviews for a bodyshop can give you a sense of how other customers have found the experience.
Ask about the repair method. A reputable garage will tell you clearly whether PDR or traditional repair is more suitable for your dent, and why.
Does Car Insurance Cover Dent Removal?
Whether your insurance covers dent removal depends on your policy and the cause of the damage.
If the dent was caused by an accident involving another vehicle, you may be able to claim through the other driver’s insurance, especially if they were at fault. If the damage was caused by something outside your control, such as hail or a falling object, it may be covered under a comprehensive policy.
However, for minor dents, many drivers choose to pay out of pocket rather than make a claim, to avoid affecting their no-claims bonus. It is worth speaking to your insurer before making a decision.
Dents Are Not Always Just Cosmetic
It is easy to assume that a small dent does not really matter, but it is worth getting it checked. Dents can sometimes affect panels in ways that are not obvious to the eye, and paint damage left untreated can lead to rust over time.
For larger impacts, it is also worth checking whether any structural or mechanical components may have been affected. A reputable bodyshop will flag this if they spot anything during the inspection.
If the dent is on your bumper, it is particularly important to get a professional opinion. Even a dent that looks minor from the outside could mean the bumper needs to be replaced or properly repaired. You can find out more about what is involved in bumper repair on our service page.
What to Expect When You Book a Dent Repair
Most good bodyshops will start with a free inspection and quote. At this stage, a technician will look at the dent under proper lighting to assess the size, depth, and whether the paint has been damaged.
Once the repair method has been agreed and the quote accepted, the work can usually begin fairly quickly. Simple PDR jobs can often be completed on the same day. Larger repairs involving respraying may take a day or two.
When the car is ready, a reputable bodyshop will carry out a final quality check before handing it back to you. Ask to see the finished repair in good light before you drive away.
Get a Free Quote Today
If you have a dent that needs attention, the best place to start is with a free, no-obligation quote from a trusted bodyshop.
At Infiniti Motor Group, our experienced technicians use advanced tools and manufacturer-approved methods to restore your vehicle to its best. We are fully insurance approved and based in Barking, East London, serving customers across Essex and the surrounding area.
Get in touch today to request your free quote and find out exactly what it will cost to fix your dent.